Economic Diversity – Another String To Our Bow

“Over recent years regional cities have been under increasing pressure, not just economically but also socially as we realise that what has gone before may not sustain our communities into the future.  Resilience and diversity and how they are achieved has been the focus for regional cities including Mount Gambier” says Mark McShane, Chief Executive Officer of The City of Mount Gambier. 

The recently released Council Future Papers based on substantial community input and research into what supports regional city resilience have highlighted, among other issues, the need for economic diversity and expanded educational opportunities.  Increasingly regional cities need to developing their own future and not rely on plans and support from elsewhere and the commencement of the James Morrison Academy of Music reflects that focus of a home grown, resilient community.

Mark McShane commented that the immediate benefits of the Academy are relatively easy to identify.  An influx of a significant number of students from Australia and the world, some of the best jazz musicians in the world teaching here, support staff and other resources needed to sustain the Academy will all add to the economic and social fabric of Mount Gambier.  This will be an immediate and ongoing benefit to our economy, the students will utilize accommodation, recreation, retail, cafes, restaurants and hotels throughout the City.  It is anticipated that the family and friends of students will visit adding further to the economy.

In addition to the immediate gains, Mark McShane noted that the presence of a world class music academy in Mount Gambier has other benefits that need to be harnessed.  “You can imagine how marketing and tourism promotion of Mount Gambier can benefit from the Academy, it puts us more prominently on the map and our significant tourism attractions, city and region, need to be highlighted.”  Mr McShane said the Council was keen to work with James Morrison, the Academy and tourism businesses to develop ideas and gain as much leverage as possible to boost tourism and the reputation of Mount Gambier as a tourist destination.

“While early days, this is a major coup for the City and we need to maximise its benefits for the economy, the education sector and the Community.”