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Central West communities invited to shape next phase of Drought Resilience Plan

RAPAD is inviting communities, organisations and stakeholders across Central West Queensland to take part in a series of regional roundtables and a virtual session as the Central West Regional Drought Resilience Plan moves into its next phase.

Funded by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund, this next stage is being delivered by RAPAD in partnership with the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR), the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF), and CQUniversity.

The impacts of drought are felt by everyone in the Central West, and these sessions provide an opportunity for locals to help shape how the region responds into the future.

“We’re hitting the road to work directly with communities as we move into implementation of the Plan,” a RAPAD Program Manager, Rachael Webster said. “This next stage is about turning priorities into practical, on-the-ground projects that strengthen drought resilience across the region.”

Participants will contribute to developing an Implementation Plan, helping identify and refine projects ready for implementation and exploring the practical steps needed to deliver them successfully.

The roundtables also connect with the Future Drought Fund Communities Program, delivered by FRRR, which supports community-led initiatives through collaborative grants and leadership development opportunities, including the Community Impact Leadership Program delivered by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation.

“By bringing these initiatives together, we’re creating a space for communities to collaborate, build momentum, and turn good ideas into projects that are practical, supported and ready to deliver real impact,” Rachael said.

Community members and stakeholders are encouraged to take part one of the following sessions:

  • Barcaldine – 27 April, Workers Heritage Centre (9:30am–12:30pm)
  • Longreach – 28 April, RAPAD Training Room (9:30am–12:30pm)
  • Winton – 29 April, Winton Neighbourhood Centre (10:30am–1:30pm)
  • Virtual Session – 30 April via Teams (9:30am–12:30pm)

“These sessions are open to landholders, producers, local government, industry and business representatives, community organisations, service providers, and all community members.

“We want to hear from everyone with an interest in strengthening our region’s resilience.”

Lunch will be provided at in-person sessions. Please register to assist with catering and dietary requirements.

Register at: https://forms.rapad.com.au/rdrp-roundtables

Learn more about the CWQ Regional Drought Resilience Plan visit: www.rapad.com.au/projects/cwq-regional-drought-resilience-program

Contact: Rachael Webster rwebster@rapad.com.au – 0428 727 605