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.''
