However, the local business community believes a community-driven lobby group needs to be formed to help bring the initiative to fruition.

This was one of the major findings of a recent Economic ThinkTank organised by Bathurst Regional Council’s economic development section.

The aim of the ThinkTank was to provide local businesses with the chance to brainstorm new projects and developments to ensure continued economic growth for the Bathurst region. 

A report to council said the ThinkTank also allowed council to increase engagement with local business, as well as identifying key challenges facing the business community, and encouraging innovation. 

“The ThinkTank brought together approximately 50 local businesses from across education, financial services, construction, manufacturing, accommodation, legal, real estate, media and research industries,” the report said.

“The group was also joined by representatives from NSW Trade and Investment, the Bathurst Business Chamber and the Business Enterprise Centre (BEC).”

A snapshot of discussions at the ThinkTank centred on the NBN rollout to Bathurst, while other issues discussed included:

n The development of a technology park in Bathurst and the formation of a local action group to attract investment;

n facilitation by council of development of aged care facilities and aged care residential options in the downtown area to cater for an ageing population;

n attraction of skilled workers and examining how Evocities may assist;

n council’s business database (which is currently under development) and how it may be used as a powerful communicative tool; and

n investment in the growth of existing business rather than the attraction of new business.

The report also notes there is a belief that a local awareness campaign is needed to encourage residents to support local businesses.