|
Investment Profile
The dominant industries of the Great Southern's regional economy are wool, broadacre cropping, livestock production, tourism,
|
Bluegum woodchips. Three million tonnes p.a. by 2008 |
|
Extra light virgin olive oil production is expanding in the Great Southern |
|
| timber production and fishing. In recent decades the economy has diversified to include horticulture and viticulture.
The region's well-established sense of identity and entrepreneurial networks in agricultural industries has fostered growth in tree farming, wine making and meat processing for international markets.
The hinterland is a major producer of wheat, barley, lupins, canola and oats. There is potential for downstream processing of these commodities, in particular malting barley, canola and lupins.
Aquaculture is in its infancy but has significant potential for growth. The region is well placed to take advantage of the growing domestic and overseas markets for aquaculture products.
The further development of tree harvesting lends itself to investment opportunities. The ideal growing conditions for commercial tree crops has led to the introduction of specialty timbers including a variety of native and planted species.
The region affords several advantages for horticulture including a mild climate, extended and assured rainfall, competitively priced land, and a reliable supply of experienced labour.
The region enjoys an enviable reputation for the quality of its wines and there is scope for an increase in the area planted to wine grapes which will enhance future capacity to service the enthusiastic export markets.
Future Prospects
The Great Southern's scenic and coastal beauty, unique forests and cultural heritage have made tourism a growth sector in the region.
|
|
|
Magnificant coast line and deep green pools |
The potential for nature-based tourism ventures in the southern coast areas of the region is being developed with a growing number of sensitively designed developments in accommodation, adventure, tours and education.
The region is a premium wool-growing and stud-breeding area, producing a high percentage of apparel wool. Growers are now focusing on better spinning qualities and close cooperation with a growing number of businesses seeking to make quality textile products from local wool. Development potential in wool scouring and top-making offer additional investment opportunities in this growth sector.
|
Infrastructure
Industrial Land
Special industry sites at Mirambeena (Albany) and Yerriminup (Mt Barker) have been established to process local resources including fish, timber and agricultural products. Katanning and other regional towns have also been identified for potential industries.
Ports
The Port of Albany is located in one of the best natural harbours in the Southern Hemisphere.
The Port’s strengths include:
-
Safe natural anchorage
-
Location to major Shipping routes
-
Essential infrastructure in place with road and rail access
-
A highly productive and multi-skilled workforce
-
Capacity for expansion for new industries.
Airport
Albany airport handles three daily return services to Perth. The airport has an instrument landing system and the 1,800 metre runway is capable of handling 737 aircraft. There are small unsealed runways at Cranbrook, Gnowangerup, Jerramungup, Bremer Bay, Kojonup and Katanning. |
Rail
The Great Southern is well serviced by rail transportation for bulk commodities.
Roads
The road network is well developed and connects all major towns. There is a direct Perth to Albany link.
Energy
Electricity is supplied by Western Power through the SW Integrated Grid. There are substations in
|
|
|
Albany windfarm |
Albany, Mt Barker, Katanning and Kojonup. A 22MW wind farm also operates at Albany.
Telecommunications
The region has a complete range of voice and data telecommunications, including higher-end bandwidth solutions such as ISDN and Frame Relay.
Water supply
Water is supplied by the Great Southern Towns Water scheme or from the Albany scheme with some regional centres having their own water supply system. |
|
|
 |
