Linda Moore
The new Clutha Development Trust (CDT) has already
developed four key aims and is recruiting staff.
Late last year, three groups dedicated to the Clutha
district's development - the Clutha District Development
Board, Clutha Agricultural Development Board, and Enterprise
Clutha - merged into the CDT.
Trust chairman Rob Hewett said that over the past three
months it had been busy putting a framework together to
support a strong organisation. Mr Hewett said the board and
trust chief executive Linda Moore had spent a lot of time
developing the strategy for the new organisation, which would
be instrumental for informing the business of the shape,
focus and direction it will take.
''Our vision is that the Clutha Development Trust will help
grow and sustain a strong Clutha economy by providing support
to the economic, social and physical wellbeing of Clutha
residents through supporting businesses and employment
opportunities in all enterprises,'' Mr Hewett said.
A review of the functions of its three parent organisations
helped develop four key platforms for the new entity focusing
on agribusiness (red meat sector and dairy), small to medium
enterprises in Clutha, development of a visitor strategy and
the advocacy and support of tourism activities within the
district, and workforce development.
Ms Moore said the group would start with agribusiness and
would have representatives at the Southfuels Farmarama in
Lawrence on February 7 and 8, and the Southern Dairy Expo in
Clydevale on February 20.
''We will be collecting information about Clutha's dairy and
red meat and wool sectors, to more accurately understand the
size and scope of potential opportunities.''
The trust is recruiting for four positions - two business
development advisers (for primary production and small-medium
enterprises), a destination/marketing manager and a trust
co-ordinator, with applications closing on February 1.
Ms Moore said the trust was excited about the future.
''As we support and help grow the Clutha district economy
through working with existing and new business opportunities,
we are confident that sustained economic benefits will
continue to flow through the district, benefiting all who
choose to live, work and recreate here.''
- helena.dereus@odt.co.nz
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