The forum will be held in Longreach, Monday 1 September 2025 and will include presentations from department representatives, independent advisors, and invited speakers with firsthand experience in groundwater management. While no formal decisions will be made, the event will help inform RAPAD’s submission to the review and support coordinated regional input.
The Longreach forum will provide an opportunity for graziers, town representatives, Indigenous communities, water-dependent businesses, and policy influencers to better understand the review process and explore how the region can contribute constructively.
RAPAD Chair and Longreach Regional Council Mayor, Cr Tony Rayner, said the forum was an important chance to ensure local voices are heard. “Water is one of our most valuable and emotive resources. By bringing people together from across the region, we can share information, discuss opportunities, and make sure our collective priorities are reflected in the new water plan,” Cr Rayner said.
Mayor Rayner said the session would help shape a united approach. “This is about working together – councils, communities, industry and government – to secure a future where water supports both our environment and our economy,” Cr Rayner said.
RAPAD’s advocacy on water is guided by its Water for Economic Development Strategy, which identifies opportunities to use under-allocated and unallocated water to create jobs, boost the population, and grow the regional economy.
The GABORA Water Plan, due to expire in September 2027, is undergoing a comprehensive review aimed at supporting sustainable water use across Queensland’s western regions. The Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers is seeking public input on issues including managing water resources, improving scientific data, enhancing community engagement, allocating unallocated water, supporting changing water needs and efficient water trading, and protecting water quality and environmental values. Submissions close on 30 September 2025.
FORUM DETAILS
Date: Monday, 1 September 2025
Time: 11: 30 lunch available ahead of a 12noon start to 4:00pm
Venue: Fairmont Rooms, Longreach Cultural and Civic Centre, 96 Eagle Street Longreach.
To assist with catering please RSVP at: https://bit.ly/GABORA-Forum
For more information on the GABORA review and to make a submission, visit:
https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/mining-energy-water/water/catchments-planning/water-plan-areas/gabora/review