Deficiencies in Existing Data

Further economic development information is needed on accommodation in the Shire (outside of Innisfail), employment opportunities and employment figures.

 
Source: Australian Sugar Yearbook 1998

Recommendations

•   That further research be conducted on treatment pond systems and in particular the recirculation systems to increase the sustainability of the prawn farming industry.
•   That the Flying Fish Point Jetty be restored to provide a valuable historical facility and multi purpose fishing and boating facility.
That secondary uses be established at the Innisfail Boat harbour to increase the attraction of the facility to the public.
•   On completion of stage 1 of the Ulysses Link Track, a study be commissioned to ascertain the viability of extending the track either north or south.
•   That the construction of a network of walking tracks in the Wet Tropics be implemented by December 2002.
•   That the Palmerston Canopy Walkway be commissioned by December 2003.
•   That the Innisfail Scenic route Road Signage be erected by 30 June 2001.
•   That a calendar of events be established on the Council website to assist in the promotion and coordination of events in the Shire.
•   That a survey of Mission Beach, and the balance of accommodation within the Shire be completed to complement the survey already completed of the Innisfail area.
•   That strategies be established and implemented to attract more people to the regional shopping catchment area to utilise the retail facilities in Innisfail
•   That assistance be given to private investors to act upon the opportunity to establish needed facilities in Innisfail such as a variety store and a Cinema complex.
•   That a regional greenhouse strategy be compiled to look at trees/forestry and evaluate their potential to absorb carbon dioxide.
•   Investigation of a market for the utilisation of farm forestry thinnings as a source of electricity
•   Research continues into improving and enhancing farming practices and cane varieties so as to maximise industry profitability and sustainability.
•   The cane industry enhances its good working relationship with local state and federal government and continues to consult with government on, and stay abreast of, policies affecting the industry.
•   Johnstone Shire Council continues to offer rate deferment to growers in financial hardship without imposing interest charges.
•   Industry continues work on the strategic plan which aims to modify and implement those elements of "whole of system" raw sugar production that can be improved to ensure the sugar industry is world competitive and profitable on an economically sustainable long term basis.
•   That Council continue to foster and facilitate the possible development of an ethanol industry.