Family friendly great people STRONG HISTORY MILES ... · Group - particularly John Hoffmann, Kylie Bourne, Glenn Strandquist, Kerry Mulholland, Scott Cawley, Sean ... Miles is a vibrant

great peopleSTRONG HISTORY

active

Family friendly

going local

creativeCELEBRATING

SUCCESS

OPEN FOR BUSINESS & INVESTMENT

EXCEPTIONAL NOT AVERAGE

self-starting culture

MILES COMMUNITY INVESTMENT

PLAN2014 – 2019

2 | Miles Community Investment Plan

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The development of the Miles Community Investment Plan has been led by the Miles District Chamber of Commerce and co-funded by the Council and the Miles Community.

In addition to the financial support, we were overwhelmed by the enthusiam and commitment of a range of people and organisations who participated in discussions, consultation and planning sessions, including:

We would like to thank:

› Robyn Allan

› Abrahams / Westpac

› Kylie Bourne Mosaics

› Caltex Miles

› Cameby Downs Coal Mine

› Chaplains Butcher

› CMT Haulage Pty Ltd

› Anne Croft

› GTI Resources

› Hutchinson Builders

› J Mullins Plumbing

› Kerwick Earthworks

› Mark L Duncan Constructions

› Miles & District Armature Picnic Race Club

› Miles District Chamber of Commerce

› Miles Engineering

› Miles Historical Village and Museum

› Miles IGA

› Kerry Mulholland

› Murilla Community Centre

› Murilla Foodworks

› Murilla Hardware Supplies

› Adam & Nadine Myers

› Origin Energy

› Palmers Coaches

› Powerflo

› Soiltech

› Andrew Smith

› Surat Basin Property Group

› Sweetapple Company Pty Ltd

› Chris Sweetapple Photography

› Helen Thomas

› Wallan Creek Herefords

› Western Downs Regional Council

› Yuleba Cypress

› XY Projects

› Murilla Community Centre

› Clients of the Miles Respite Service

› Miles Historical Village

› Students and Teachers from Miles State School

› Students and Teachers from Miles State High School

› Young people from Miles

› Families and students from Miles

› Miles Devils Rugby League

› Local business people of Miles

› Origin Energy staff from the Miles Office

› Creek Café for hosting the Business Breakfast

› Western Downs Regional Council Officers – Miles Service Centre & Gallery, Community Service & Economic Development teams

› Miles Chamber of Commerce members and the Project Working Group - particularly John Hoffmann, Kylie Bourne, Glenn Strandquist, Kerry Mulholland, Scott Cawley, Sean Maher, Cecily Brockhurst, Rachel Kerwick, Helen Thomas, David Sweetapple, Mitchell Goodchild

Miles Community Investment Plan | 3

INTRODUCTION 4

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT PLAN 5

CONTEXT 6

TECHNICAL ANALYSIS 8

COMMUNITY DRIVERS 14

VOICES OF MILES 15

WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT MILES 16

OUR VISION FOR MILES 18

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK 19

LEGACY PROJECT 24History & Heart 24

Living it Large in Miles 26

Making It Happen 28

It’s our Place too 30

Don’t forget to Stop 32

Onward & Upward 34

NEXT STEPS 36

GET INVOLVED 37

TABLE OF CONTENTS

This document has been prepared as a summary of the key discussions and investigations that have taken place over the last 12 months and sets out:

› the process that was undertaken to develop the plan

› the results of the process – 5 legacy projects we can focus on

› a description of Miles and some of the key drivers for economic and population growth

› what the technical investigations have shown

› what the community told us was important and how they want to be involved.

The plan then describes in more detail:

› A framework and strategy for the development of priority projects

› A description of each legacy project and how we should go about delivering

› Projects that are already happening separate to the plan and should continue

Finally the plan offers the chance for you to be involved in the delivery and describes the partnership opportunities.

how to read th i s documen t


› COMMUNITY OPPORTUNITY ANALYSIS & STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS

› DATA, PHOTOGRAPHIC AUDIT, INTERVIEWS & DISCUSSIONS, LOCAL ASSETS & STRENGTHS

› OPPORTUNITIES WORKSHOP

› TOWN & DISTRICT ANALYSIS

› SITE ANALYSIS, SKETCH BOOK, INFRASTRUCTURE BENCHMARKING

› STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT – ECONOMIC, PLANNING, COMMUNITY, INFRASTRUCTURE, MARKETS

› VISIONING FOR MILES

› WORKSHOPS, CREATIVE ACTIVITIES, CHANGE AGENTS, ADVOCATES

› COMMUNITY INVESTMENT PLAN

› VALIDATION BY PARTNERS & FUNDERS

› GOVERNMENT COMMITMENTS

› 5 YEAR PLAN › CONFIRMATION

OF FIRST PROJECT › PLACE MANAGER

ENGAGED

OPPORTUNITY ANALYSIS VISION LOCAL BUY-IN

Urbis’ role in developing the Community Investment Plan was not to provide ideas, but to listen to, collate and investigate the community’s aspirations and develop a prioritised list of projects that the town wants and are willing to lead. To develop the Community Investment Plan the Chamber of Commerce, Urbis and our local support partners have undertaken the following process:

This Plan outlines our findings from community feedback and technical investigations, describes a framework for investment and prioritises five Legacy Projects that we believe will position Miles strongly for the future.

INTRODUCTION

The Miles District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to present the Miles Community Investment Plan.

The Community Investment Plan maps what our town needs and wants; and how to go about getting it.

This exciting local initiative aims to deliver a range of community projects within the next five years, helping us to implement a vision for a sustainable town and take advantage of the current growth opportunities. It has been led by the Miles Chamber of Commerce and developed over the last 12 months through discussions with our community and based on advice from consultant partners, Urbis Pty Ltd.

The idea for the Community Investment Plan was initiated by Chamber and Nick Bonifant of Resource Partnerships to respond to local feedback that the residents and businesses of Miles are committed to securing a long-term future for their community.

The Chamber has been working with Urbis to gain technical guidance in the areas of town planning, urban design and landscape architecture, community planning and economics. By working with the community, Urbis has helped the Chamber to prioritise community aspirations and ensure that proposed projects were feasible, provide the widest community benefit and will make the biggest impact.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE MILES COMMUNITY INVESTMENT PLAN

› It’s local

› It’s about creating a shared vision with community, business and Council

› It’s a 5 year action plan

› It focuses on partnerships to achieve positive change

› It’s about Miles setting the agenda

OUR PROCESS


LEGACY PROJECTS

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT PLAN

The Community Investment Framework identifies five areas of focus; and a commitment to strengthen the capacity of the Miles Chamber of Commerce to lead community change:

› Main Street

› Tourism

› Entrepreneurship

› Events and Activation

› Information

Based on this framework and considering community feedback throughout consultation, we have identified the following five legacy projects that will kickstart our Plan and be a visible representation of the positive business and community changes in Miles.

HISTORY AND HEART – THE ANZAC PARK TRANSFORMATION

Refurbishment of Anzac Park, together within adjoining public amenities building, driver re vivor stop and the railway properties to create a ‘must stop there’ destination for travellers, tourists as well as the community.

LIVING LARGE IN MILES – THE MILES FAMILY PORTAL

Building on the good work of Council’s marketing and community information programs, develop a family friendly information and advice portal. Hosted by the Miles Chamber of Commerce, the intended audience would be prospective, new and/or existing residents; and resource companies and local businesses and community organisations.

MAKING IT HAPPEN – YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

Establish a “Rising Stars” program which invests in the development of young people in Miles and is used to encourage those aged 15–30 years to act as change agents in the implementation of the Miles Community Investment Plan.

IT’S OUR PLACE TOO – YOUTH FRIENDLY PLACES

Create safe, attractive and flexible young people’s places and activities that make them want to stay. Projects to respond directly to young people’s ideas and leadership and be supported by the community.

DON’T FORGET TO STOP – DOGWOOD TOURISM GATEWAY

A locally developed and driven tourism strategy building upon Miles’ assets – its people, its story and the town itself. Focussing on Miles as the gateway to the south-west region’s many natural and historic attractions.

ONWARDS AND UPWARDS - COMMUNITY INVESTMENT PLAN PROJECT OFFICER

The Miles Distrcit Chamber of Commerce will drive these Legacy Projects forward with the support of a dedicated resource. This role will be responsible for developing strategic partnerships, coordintion of events, grant applications and updating community information.

I n v e s tmen t F ramework


CONTEXT

Who We AreMiles is a vibrant community with a culture of positive action through volunteering. It is a place where the community takes responsibility for its own future.

Our people come from a variety of social and economic circumstances and personal connections with the town range from 6 weeks to 90+ years.

Our residential profile includes historic character housing, new residential developments, workforce accommodation villages and short-term accommodation of apartments, hotels, motels, cabins and caravan parks.

A number of important and highly valued community assets exist in Miles and make it a great place for families, including a recreation centre and active sports groups,

a range of community meeting places, library, art gallery, historical village, highly regarded primary and secondary schools with strong connections with families and community and good health infrastructure with a new hospital and stable general practice.

For an area that is struggling with changing economic and social landscapes, attracting and retaining families is seen as critical to the survival of the town and its traditions. A desire to not just ‘survive’ but ‘thrive’ in this current time of pressure is shared by residents, businesses and Council. These groups are taking active steps to enhancing the family friendly image and backbone of the town through the Community Investment Plan.

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Old MilesCemetary

CentenaryPark

Miles Golf Club

Showgrounds

Warrego Highway

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Miles, a rural town of approximately 1,800 people or 450 families, is on the cusp of a revolution. Located within the resource rich Surat Basin, at the crossroads of North-South Leichhardt Highway and East-West Warrego Highway.

Miles has seen an acceleration in exploration, construction and development activity associated with the resource sector in the district.

The changes being experienced in Miles bring a sense of excitement and optimism but also a certain amount of anxiety and to some extent fear for residents. After years of small town community connections and a rich agricultural history, will the town’s identity be lost with the influx of the out-of-towners? Or will it mean a renewed vitality in and demand for industry, services and community?

The residents and businesses of Miles are committed to securing a long-term future for their community. Miles now has the opportunity to position itself positively for the growth expected to impact over the next 5 years - to maximise opportunities, minimise adverse impacts and to embrace change.

Why do we need a Commun i t y I n ve s tmen t P lan?

M i l e s C ommu n i t y I n v e s t m e n t P l a n | 7

Western Downs Regional Council identified in its ground-breaking Western Downs 2050 Community Plan, the need to embrace the opportunities provided by the agriculture and mining sectors to ensure the long-term future of the region.

These strategic goals were balanced against the community desire that the individual needs of the region’s (23) towns and villages would be addressed and their identities maintained. A program of town revitalization activities would underpin this approach.

Since the completion of the Community Plan in 2010, Council has focused its resources on critical issues for the region such as delivering a planning scheme, establishing a housing trust and securing commitment from Queensland Gas Corporation, partnering with government and business to provide critical local infrastructure and services. Council’s work on these strategies has enabled partnerships and cooperative arrangements to be put in place at the regional level.

In addition to the work by Council there has been a focus over a number of years from the resource sector and state government to develop a policy and strategy framework that maximises benefit for the region as a result of the

expansion of the resource sector in the Western Downs region, including:

› Surat Basin Future Directions Statement and the Darling Downs Regional Plan

› Surat Basin Population Report 2013

› Surat Basin Health and Community Services Workforce Action Plan

› Queensland Resources Council – Workforce Accommodation Arrangements In the Qld Resources Sector

› Urban Land Development Authority – Non-resident Workers Accommodation Guideline

› Origin & QGC Social Impact Management Plans

› QGC Final Integrated Housing Strategy

› Regional and Resource Towns Action Plan 2013

The changes occurring in Miles and the nature of this vibrant, self-starting community present Council, State Government and the resource sector with an opportunity to move their focus from a regional level to achieve change locally in partnership with the Miles community.

Reg iona l St ra t eg i e s and P lans


TECHNICAL ANALYSIS

At an early stage of the community investment planning process the Urbis team undertook a site visit to rapidly gain a shared understanding of current issues, challenges and opportunities that community and business are facing from the perspectives of people, place and business.

The site visit involved a team of experts in property, economics and development advice, social planning, urban design and community development specialists undertake a walking and driving tour of the town and discussions with various business people, community members and leaders from the education sector.

Following the site visit Urbis prepared an Opportunity Analysis Sketchbook and Photographic Inventory to summarise the findings of the visit and reflections from our technical team. The information collated through this visit helped inform discussions with community and business to develop a plan for action – the Community Investment Plan.

Detailed information from the site visit is provided in the Opportunity Analysis Sketchbook and Photographic Inventory, which should be read as a background document to the Community Investment Plan.

THE PROCESSThe multi-disciplinary team from Urbis visited Miles in June 2013 to undertake a detailed assessment of the Town of Miles. During the 3 day site visit, the project team of social planners, property economists, urban design and landscape architects, and town planners; met with local stakeholders and analysed community, economic, planning and urban design aspects of the town. The process involved:

› preparation of a photographic inventory;

› town walk and survey (mapping facilities, new developments, pedestrian and cycle movements, natural landscape features, cultural and heritage, navigation and landmark opportunities);

› informal discussions and meetings with stakeholders including Council planning and community development staff, local councillors, local business people, developers and members of the Miles Chamber of Commerce; and

› review of key reports, demographic data and planning scheme.

Preliminary findings were workshopped with Chamber on the last night of the site visit (15 June 2013). The results are documented in the Analysis Sketch Book and Photographic Inventory. A summary of the key insights from this report is outlined below:

Oppor t un i t y Assessmen t


Insights › Energy and resource projects driving a rising housing

market that will falter with expected commodity trading fluctuations

› Current planning scheme provisions appear to lack flexibility to support opportunistic business prospects

› Need to build and maintain a diverse local economy which maximises opportunities gained from the resource sector but is not wholly dependant

› Local business competing with (and often losing out to) the resource sector for staff based on pay and conditions

› Property development is driven by investor market rather than local demand, current cost of housing impacting on interest in living and working in Miles

› Miles’ capacity to generate and support the mix of economic activity (including retail, community and community services) desired by residents will continue to be a challenge. Miles is relatively well seviced with retail floor space and a range of overnight and short term accommodation

Opportunities › Town wide marketing and business/family attraction

strategy

› If people can be retained, there is capacity to drive owner occupier market and a more sustainable property market

› Existing relationship between schools and industries nurtured

› Promote centre based development

› Continue to build local business capacity to ensure they can compete on resource sector contracting opportunities

› Chamber to develop a strategic relationship with Council Planning and Economic Development to identify and reduce barriers to local business

› Identify, map and promote a network of tourist opportunities

› Position Miles as a ‘service centre’ supporting Wandoan in the longer term resource sector activity in the area

› Potential market going forward for take away food outlets (likely to be local not national chain), additional cafe, hairdresser, allied health and natural therapies

Insights › The current planning scheme didn’t anticipate the level and

type of growth occurring in Miles

› Energy companies have the resources and can invest the time and capital in going through the planning process but it is restrictive for locals with limited planning knowledge

› Current planning scheme does not include any mechanisms to assess potential social and community impacts/benefits of applications

› Emergence of new forms of development has quickly and significantly changed the development landscape

› Existing re-purpose of facilities demonstrates a community interest in new uses and facilities

Opportunities › Broadening the economic focus for Miles under the

planning scheme

› Better recognition through planning of the change Miles has been and is still undergoing particularly through consideration of social and community matters

› Better facilitation of new development through planning applications where consistent with the zoning of the land

› Lessening potential planning constraints to make the planning process more accessible to local residents

› Improvements to social and physical infrastructure in Miles that will continue to benefit the community with opportunity to repurpose

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Insights › Miles is a vibrant community with a culture of positive

action through volunteering

› Miles already has a number of important and highly valued community assets

› Chamber is taking a long term view to lead change on important community and business issues

› There is a lack of clear information about the timing, scale and nature of change for Miles

› Attracting and retaining families is seen as critical for the survival of the town

› There is significant community concern about loss of identity

Opportunities › Information that identifies and promotes the many

strengths of Miles

› Promote Miles as a town of choice for families

› Better understand the needs and expectations of resource companies

› Establish shared expectations between resource companies and the Miles Community to ensure Miles reaps the benefits of the “boom”

› Harness community, business and council enthusiasm in the development of the Community Investment Plan

› Broaden the reach and representation of Chamber through proactive community engagement

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TECHNICAL ANALYSIS

Figure 1 - Planned Residential Growth in Miles

Residential Growth

Community Facilities

Insights › Significant new development driven by resource sector

› Miles to double in size

› Temporary mining accommodation along Warrego Highway

OpportunitiesPlanning Scheme guidance should encourage;

› Tree planting and landscaping on private properties as well as street trees to shade footpaths;

› Footpaths that connect residents to community facilities, schools and parklands; and

› Retaining housing with heritage values to enhance the historical character of the area

Insights › Miles benefits from a legacy of Council, government and

community investment in social infrastructure including child care, health, culture, education and recreation.

› Current facilities such as the hospital are well positioned and linked with the neighbouring retirement village

Opportunities › Provide more clarity around the civic centre by improving

the surrounding public spaces to include more street trees, feature paving, footpath treatments, and signage.

› Provide seating, footpaths and landscaping to the north of the hospital for respite and rehabilitation

› Encourage students of the Trade Training Centre to get involved with the growth of the town

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MILES CEMETERY

OORALEA RACECOURSE

MILES GOLF CLUB

MILES HISTORICAL VILLAGE AND MUSEUM

OLD MILES CEMETERY

MILES HIGH SCHOOL

New residential development will

significantly increase the total site area of Miles

Temporary mining accommodation located along

the Warrego Highway

Legend

Extent of new residential developmentExtent of pre-mining boom town


Culture and History

Insights › A sense of history and pride in heritage is evident

predominantly on the outskirts of Miles and on Pine Street where the civic buildings provide a strong historic hub to the town

› Miles does not typically showcase public art. Exceptions include the gates to the Showgrounds, which celebrate local history and identity, and the facade of Dogwood Crossing

› Whilst there are great community facilities in Miles, they tend to be ‘indoor’ facilites and offer limited opportunity for people to enjoy an outdoor lifestyle

Opportunities › Reinstate the original streetscape character through

traditional styled awnings

› Repurpose interesting industrial heritage buildings as retail or small business incubators

› Promote and celebrate heritage through signage and wayfinding elements

› Develop a heritage trail that runs from the historical village

› Incorporate public art at key arrival nodes and on existing infrastructure

› Identify locations for cultural/civic hubs and dining experiences

Figure 2 - Recreation Opportunities & Linkages

HOOKSWOOD RD

ROSS ST

EDITH ST

DAISY ST

ELEANOR ST

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OORALEA RACECOURSE

MILES GOLF CLUB

MILES HISTORICAL VILLAGE AND MUSEUM

OLD MILES CEMETERY

MILES HIGH SCHOOL

Recreation Centre

Edith Street as a recreation spine

Miles has great sports facilities including a pool, gym, netball courts, golf course, racecourse, football fields, skate park and bowling green.

BBQ facilities

Dogwood Creek

CorridorA pedestrian

and bike path should be built over

the creek near the road

bridge


TECHNICAL ANALYSIS

Recreation, Parks and Environment

Pedestrian and Cycle Movement

Navigation and Landmarks

Insights › Miles has a good range of recreation facilities that cater

to organised sports, however, there is an opportunity to provide more parks for passive recreation in the heart of town.

› Miles is surrounded by several beautiful natural assets including Chinaman’s lagoon, the small lagoon north of Daisy Street and the weir.

› Exotic and native trees are relatively evenly distributed throughout the town.

Opportunities › Use of Dogwood Creek corridor for active recreation

opportunities.

› New shaded pedestrian/cycle paths that connect with existing paths to create fitness circuits that accommodate for summer heat.

› Strengthen Edith Street connection as a “recreation spine”

› Expand the gym.

› Utilise Showground for out of season use, for example camping grounds.

› Encourage protection and planting of the Dogwood tree.

› Ensure new tree planting is tolerant of the local climate.

Insights › Miles benefits from a strong street grid and a town

centre where a significant number of destinations are located within a five to ten minute walking catchment.

› The town is heavily dependent on vehicles.

› A lack of shade, disconnected concrete footpaths and excessively wide expanses of asphalt roads create a hostile environment for pedestrians where it is too hot to walk the streets and unsafe due to fast moving traffic.

Opportunities › Street Planting Program - Shade trees along wide roads

and specific intersections.

› Provide crossings between schools.

› Connect footpaths and Dogwood Creek pathway with new residential areas.

› On road cycle lanes to connect town centre and creek corridor.

Insights › Miles has a strong street grid which makes navigating the

town easy.

› Arrival along the Warrego Highway ‘main street’ in particular could be improved, as it is currently dominated by trucks, bitumen and industrial uses and encourages high vehicle speeds.

Opportunities › Utilise the grain silos as a potential marker for the town.

› Capitalise on distinctive views to the old dairy building from the western arrival into town.

› Plant trees along Warrego Highway to slow vehicles down.

› Encourage visitors and truck drivers to stay overnight in Miles at dedicated locations through provision of public facilities.


Walk the Bea tThe Urbis team and Gilbert Rochecouste from Village Well undertook a “Walk the Beat” tour of Miles Main Street in September 2013 with a number of volunteers from the Miles business community. The Walk the Beat process was a valuable process for understanding how the community use and view the Main Street and the opportunities for the Main Street in the future.

Insights › The current medical centre location is not the best use of

the site and may be better located near the hospital.

› Although there were previously street trees located along Pine Street, they have since been removed as they were blamed for warping the roads (although this is still occurring without trees).

› There is a lack of a unique Miles identity and the town centre is not clearly defined.

› Shelters at the entrance to Pine Street, used primarily by smokers and do not provide any significant amenity for the wider community.

› Lack of community driven, family oriented spaces.

› The park is a significantly underutilised asset and the only council owned land on the Main Street.

› There is a lack of signage and way finding to signpost the park as an attractive stopping place for tourists.

› There is currently no safe road crossing, which is acting to disconnect the two sides of the main street.

› Car Parking, fire regulations and other planning considerations are restrictive for any attempt to build on the vacant sites along the Main Street.

› Dogwood Crossing is an impressive nationally recognised asset and cultural hub for the town of Miles that displays a range of high quality art from artists based in Miles and the surrounding region.

› Frontages along the section of Main Street to the west of Miles town centre are potentially not as attractive as they could be.

Opportunities › There is an opportunity for identity and branding actions

that create a distinct identity for Miles

› Use of public art to develop identity and create a story for the centre of Miles

› Revegetation and greening the landscape of the Main Street and Pine Street

› The development of a community hub, particularly to address the lack of family oriented spaces, with the possibility to further utilise Dogwood Crossing in this respect.

› The process would greatly benefit from a designated Champion/glue person to facilitate projects, ideally in a paid one day per week position

› Development of improved signage and way finding materials to act to both attract and slow down traffic

› Increased events and activation of Anzac park, including relocating the Church Markets to the park and the possibility for family oriented activation such as a pop up cinema night

› Improve/upgrade services in park to attract families and tourism

› Activation of the park with low barrier pop up retail

› Need to create better business conditions with Council to allow for greater leniency and flexibility on compliance to facilitate development

› Potential to use vacant site in the interim for parking to ease considerations for surrounding development

› Encourage further utilisation of the vast amount of artistic talent in the region, including the use of art to create an identity for Miles

› Provide further information as to the opportunities offered by Dogwood Creek

› Use low cost/temporary measures such as Balinese flags and printed advertising to create an attractive entrance to Miles Town Centre


COMMUNITY DRIVERS

Miles is a small rural town with a big sense of community, which benefits from a committed and engaged community and business sector.

At the heart of the Community Investment Plan is the need for a shared vision to direct projects and facilitate the partnerships required to ensure action. In order to survive and flourish in this time of great change, the local community, businesses, the resource sector, Miles Chamber of Commerce and Council must work together to implement the community’s vision for the future.

Throughout the project there were a number of themes that presented as important to generate vibrancy and maintain a strong sense of community. These themes were consistently shared by business, residents, Council and included:

› Attracting and retaining families is seen as critical to the survival of the town and its traditions

› Liveability and amenity needs to support and provide opportunities for all age groups in the community – from 0 to 100+ years!

› We need to identify and promote the many strengths of Miles – place, people, heritage, position – as part of a town wide marketing and business attraction strategy

› Miles has capacity to be promoted as a town of choice for families to current and potential residents – with good services in terms of reputable schools, stable health services, excellent community networks and strong, active arts, culture, sports, community organisations

› We need to expand our understanding of the needs and expectations of resource companies and their contractors to better meet the needs of their workforce (both temporary and residential workforces)

› By establishing shared expectations and understanding between resource companies (and their contractors), their workforces and the Miles community we can identify opportunities to reap the broad benefits of the boom

› We have a strong commitment and enthusiasm from community, business, and Council to develop a local plan of action which harnesses our strengths to address issues relating to the “boom” including housing, health services, small business, childcare and outside-school-hours care, loss of young people, tourism, leisure and recreation opportunities.


Since the project commenced in May 2013, Miles Chamber of Commerce and project consultants Urbis have worked hard to ensure the community, stakeholders, project funders and supporters have been kept up to date with project progress. This has involved:

› Regular contact between Chamber (through the Project Working Group) and the Urbis Project Team via email, phone, attendance at Chamber meetings;

› Production of community newsletters, as well as articles published in the Murilla Community News (published by the Community Centre);

› Community Information Sessions ;

› Distributing copies of Opportunity Assessment Report and the Community Consultation Report throughout the community (to generate discussion and interest);

› Seeking out opportunities for media coverage; and

› Development of an extensive email distribution list of over 250 individual contacts (developed and kept by Chamber) through which project updates, key dates and information requests are sent.

Understanding the community’s views and ideas was critical to the successful development of the Miles Community Investment Plan.

As part of the community investment planning process the Urbis team undertook an intensive period of community engagement with a diverse section of the community. Urbis recognises the value of local knowledge and through this process sought to understand what it is like to live in Miles in this period of change, growth and new development. More detail of the information gathered through the community discussions and consultation is presented in the Community Engagement Report that should be read as a background document to the Community Investment Plan.

Through August 2013, Urbis, Village Well and the Chamber of Commerce team undertook a number of consultation sessions with different organisations and people across town.

This information was used in discussions with the Miles Chamber of Commerce to develop a prioritisation framework for projects and a project prospectus with five identified legacy projects. These sessions formed part of the ongoing conversation with Chamber, local businesses and the community and include:

› Voices of Miles Sessions with

Partners of recently arrived resource workers;

Older residents of Miles;

Children from Miles State School

› Visioning Workshops

Next generation (20-30 year olds);Local business communityHigh school students (12-19 year olds);

Local residents

› Main Street Walk with Village Well, Urbis and local business

› Information Drop in Sessions at community events

› Feedback sessions with Chamber

These groups were included to capture a diverse range of opinions about the opportunities and challenges for Miles and to identify what each different group envisioned for Miles’ future. Each key group provided valuable insights and progress towards developing a shared vision and identifying the key projects for Miles.

VOICES OF MILES

The purpose of the community consultation was to:

› Understand what it is like to live in Miles, as either a new or long-term resident;

› Develop a community based vision for the town of Miles’s future;

› Understand the opportunities and challenges faced by business, residents and community organisations;

› Identify the possible projects and priorities to be included in the Miles Community Investment Plan; and

› Identify local people and organisations who could champion, advocate and/or lead projects in the final plan.


WHAT WE LOVE ABOUT MILES

SENIORS IN MILES (MILES RESPITE SERVICE)

What we love about Miles

› Knowing everyone – “we have lived here for a long time” - for 60-90 years

› Community Centre (and the staff) was a very valued resource

› Memories of the creek as young people

› Living in Miles because of the peace and quiet, particularly in the rural area

› Business and industry seen as important to the future of the town

How things are changing

› Loss of retail, empty shops in the main street

› Traffic and safety is difficult for older pedestrians

› Used to know everyone but not anymore

› Difficulty accessing dental services, some turnover in doctors

› Housing affordability

› Hard for businesses to compete with resource sector for staff

› Trucks stopping in town was considered problematic/ a bit invasive

What we would like to see

› Financial support or cheaper rents for people wanting to use main street shops

› A volunteer service to support older people - trips to medical appointments, community services, shopping, help coordinate activities/events

› More affordable eating out/cafe options

› A taxi service

NEW FAMILIES IN MILES (6 WEEKS TO 18 MONTHS IN TOWN)


› ‘Everyone is so friendly and welcoming’

› Work is easy to find if you go looking

› Lots of activities for the little kids – great schools, sports competition

› Community Centre was our first point of call for information

› More families are keen to move to Miles – want to know more about what’s here, before you arrive


› ‘Can be a bit lonely before you meet people – you have to be brave and put yourself out there’

› Not sure where to find information on what is happening

› Housing is very expensive

› Not used to the shops closing on the weekend

› Community Centre helped with housing, jobs, information, friendly face

› Connecting with the workers camps – bus into town for sport, library, food, leisure


› Information on what is available in Miles (before we arrived), and information on what is happening and how to join in (once we were here)

› Improved women’s health services – female doctor, Breastscreen, travel to Toowoomba expensive

› Understanding of resource workers as family men/women, who are missing their home and kids

› Arts and culture activities for young people, informal sport for children and young people

› Opportunities

What We Heard


CHILDREN (MILES STATE SCHOOL)


› Our friends, our cousins, people are nice

› The school, the pool, race course, the library, eating out at the pub, the art gallery, historical village

› Riding around, the dams and creeks, footy, water skiing and tubing, Condamine Lagoon, Possum Park, netball, catching the school bus, fishing

› ‘The secret places my friends showed me’

› Quiet and peaceful – the buffalos and long horns


› Go to the new estate to play on the driveways – the new houses have no backyards

› ‘The miners in their big shirts scare me – if they take off their shirts, they are like us’

› Night-time - the lights from the drilling rigs

› Traffic is too fast

› ‘I’m sad because I want my cousins to live out here’

› Need more places to go – shopping centres, food places, arcades, sports shops, places to play, camping


› BIG IDEAS – chocolate factory, jumping pillow, rock climbing, motor bikes, zoo, wave pool and water park, roller coaster, joke shop, netball club house, bigger football club

› NEW PLACES TO GO – Cold Rock, KFC, Maccas, ‘a bigger version of Miles Central’, EB Games, Subway, cinema

› THINGS TO DO – netball every weekend, sports for boys and girls to do together, school pool, better technology, ‘louder festivals for everyone’, gyms for gym junkies, upgrade river track,

› ‘Everything be cheaper’, cheaper houses


OUR VISION FOR MILES

HIGH SCHOOL (YOUTH FROM 12 – 18YEARS)

The young people’s vision session involved a mix of high school students at different stages in their schooling career discussing their experience of living in Miles and their vision for the future. The group’s vision for Miles was as a modern country town, a place with an attractive and green main street, a place with a diverse mix of retail opportunities and activities, a place with things to do for all ages and a place that maintained its community spirit. This group also contained a number of students enthusiastic to get involved in organising events, public art and other activities in Miles, who may later become part of the “Rising Stars” program proposed for inclusion in the Community Investment Plan.

NEXT GENERATION (20-30 YEAR OLDS)

The 20 – 30 year old age group attended a Burger and Beers event to discuss how to promote Miles as a great place to live – with an emphasis on increasing opportunities for families and young people to stay in Miles. The group discussed a future vision for Miles - as a place that celebrates “local”, an affordable place, a place that is a home for happy families and a place that maintains Miles’ existing strong sense of community. The group contained a number of enthusiastic leaders looking to actively facilitate change including ensuring there were more activities for young people and families living in Miles. This group was particularly beneficial to engage with as they are often a voice that is marginalised/absent from traditional engagement processes.

LOCAL BUSINESSThe Business Breakfast event brought together local business owners and community services to discuss the opportunities and issues for business in Miles and how to make the most from the current economic activity being driven by energy and resource sector. Within this group there was a focus on attracting people to both live in and visit Miles. There were a range of creative visions developed during this session with the key themes including: Miles is the place you want to live, it maintains its strong and active community, it is an attractive rural town with a unique identity (quirky but traditional) and is a town with great services and facilities. A number of Chamber members attended this event, which was beneficial in providing an open path of communication between local businesses and Chamber, and facilitating broader engagement from business to deliver the Community Investment Plan.

COMMUNITYThe community visioning workshop was held as an open general community event to discuss a vision for Miles. The group included several community members who had been involved in earlier sessions and were enthusiastic to contribute more, as well as new faces from the local community. This group’s vision for the town focussed on enhancing its position as friendly family town with a strong sense of community that is active and well-connected. The vision included Miles becoming a clean, attractive and welcoming place with plenty of open spaces and public activities as well as a place with attractive and vibrant retail opportunities. Children attending this session completed their own visioning activities and placed an emphasis on providing more opportunities for students learning and school activities (sports carnivals), more jobs for young people and an increase in retailing targeted towards kids.

What We Heard


YEAR 1 YEAR 5

ASS

ETS

& S

TREN

GTH

S &

LEG

ACY PA

RTNERS &

SUPPO

RTERS

MAIN STREET TOURISM ENTREPRENEURS

EVENTS & ACTIVATION

INFORMATION

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT FRAMEWORK

A draft framework for the Community Investment Plan was developed and tested with Chamber in September 2013. This Framework was guided by the technical and community feedback analyses and helps to prioritise potential projects, including the selection of the Legacy Projects described in the following section of this document.

This framework brings together a number of important elements including:

› Building upon local assets, strengths and the legacy of past investments;

› Commitment to the project from supporters and partners; and

› Maintaining a pragmatic focus on what can be delivered over the next five years.

Currently, there are five core strategies highlighted in the plan:

1. Events and Activation

2. Main Street

3. Tourism

4. Entrepreneurship

5. Access to Information

Although individually described, these strategies are interlinked and will deliver shared outcomes for the community across the five year action plan period. The following pages describe the five core strategies of the framework in more detail with examples of the types of activities that might be included.


WELCOME TO MILES

KIT

EVENT PROGRAM

FAMILY PORTAL

SETTLEMENT SERVICE

FAMILY PORTAL

BRAND/ MARKETING STRATEGY

JOBS

SPORT

SCHOOLS

HEALTH

ART

MAIN STREET

OPEN MIKEFOOD

INVEST/ ATTRACT/ STRATEGY

EG.

INFORMATION

MAIN STREET BLITZ

ANZAC PARK

CIVIC PRECINCT

DAWSON ST

PINE STREET FOODIES CORNER

INSIDE

WEEKEND EVENINGEVENTS

PUBLIC TOILETS

SHADE

TRAIN STATION - REUSE

POP-UP RETAIL/ FOOD/ INFO

PLAYGROUND/ WATER PLAY

OUTDOOR DINING

TEEN LOUNGE

EVENTS

OUTSIDE

MAIN STREET

MAIN STREET

INFORMATION

INFORMATION

MAIN STREET


REGIONAL GATEWAY

MAIN STREET

DOGWOOD CREEK

ARTS & CULTURE

1 EAST

2 CONDAMINE

3 WEST

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

EVENTS PROGRAM

TRAILS

PLACES IN TOWN & DISTRICT

COLLECTIONS

FAMILY PORTAL

TRAILS

HERITAGE

EXERCISE

GREEN

PLAY

WATER

PICNIC/FAMILY

TOURISM

HISTORICAL VILLAGE

TOURISM

ANZAC PARK

CIVIC PRECINCT

DAWSON ST

FAMILY PORTAL

PROMOTE EVENTS WITH ACCOMODATION & TOURISM OPERATORS

ARRIVAL EVENT PROGRAM

ARTS & CULTURAL EVENTS

SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

MARKETS

COMMUNITY EVENTS

SPORT

EVENTS & ACTIVATION

DOGWOOD CREEK ACTIVITIES FOR FITNESS & LEISURE

EVENTS & ACTIVATION

TOURISM

TOURISM

EVENTS & ACTIVATION


RISK TAKING

RISING STARS

INVESTMENT & ATTRACTION

EVENTS PROGRAM

SHARED INVESTMENT RISK EG. POP-UP

SHARED TENANCIES

HISTORY

FOOD

MUSIC/ART

TRADE TRAINING CENTRE

NEW BUSINESS/ PEOPLE

NEW IDEAS

ARTISTS

COUNCIL

CHAMBER

PLANNING

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

SUCCESSION (TEENS +20-30YRS)

SPORT

RESOURCE SECTOR EG. MILES AHEAD

ENTREPRENEURS

ENTREPRENEURS

EVENTS & ACTIVATION

BRANDING

GOVERNANCE

WEBSITE

STRATEGIC RELATIONSHIPS

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT

PLAN

SUCCESSION

FAMILY PORTAL

MAIN STREET

INVESTMENT & ATTRACTION STRATEGY

RISING STARS

PITCH AN IDEA

MILES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ENTREPRENEURS

MILES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE


ANZAC PARK TRANSFORMATION

MILES FAMILY PORTAL

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

YOUTH FRIENDLY PLACES

DOGWOOD TOURISM GATEWAY

LEGACY PROJECTS


PLAN PROJECT OFFICER


TITLE

2013 2014 2019

First project commencing

in 2014

History and Heart

Refurbishment of Anzac Park, together within adjoining public amenities

building, driver survivor stop and the railway properties to create a ‘must stop there’ destination for traveller, tourists as well as the community.


KEY ELEMENTS INCLUDE:

• Maintain integrity and respect of the Anzac Park memorial

• ‘Pop-up tenancies’ suitable for food and beverage, retail

• New/refurbished toilets, parent/disability toilets

• Events infrastructure – power, concrete slab for food vans, lighting for night-time events

• Seating (including some flexible), shade and landscape elements

• Out of this world children’s play area (possibly wet play area)

• Adaptive use of the heritage railway building

• Public art

• Additional shady street trees on main road

RESOURCES

• Park refurbishment - design and approvals, construction and fit-out inc waterpark

• Activation Plan (including events, EOI for small business/tenancies) - $50k

PROJECT PARTNERS

• Queensland Government – grants and programs

• QRail – infrastructure (railway buildings)

• Western Downs Regional Council – infrastructure, grants and programs

• Corporate and Community funders and construction partners – funding and in-kind support

• Start-up Enterprise – operator/coordinator of markets or operation of a café

TOILETS

Driver reviver

Two-way entry & drop off

One-way shared zone (close on market days)

- Temporary tenancies- Access to power outlets & water

- Flexible park spaces for markets and unprogrammed recreation

- Shipping containers and pavement paint are cost effective interim solutions

- Renewal of the Anzac Park memorial

- Creative themed lighting

- Outdoor cinema- Theatre performance space- Live music- Speakers Corner

- Recycled materials- Themed play

Public art / signage

truck pullover

Picnic tables amongst the trees

Arrival plaza

SENIOR CITIZENS

THE CREEK CAFE

PUB

STATION

PINE S

TREE

T

WARREGO HWY

SLESSARS LANE

RAILWAY LINE

Parking

Parking

THE CORNER

CAFE

MARKET DAYS

POP-UP VENDORS

MEMORIAL SPINE

WATER & ADVENTURE

PLAY

EVENT SPACE


TITLETOURISM

EVENTS & ACTIVATION

MAIN STREET

LEGACY PROJECT

BACKGROUNDLocated at the heart of Miles ANZAC Park is representative of the history of the town and symbolic of a long term tradition of service to the community that continues today. Over the years Council and the community have invested in upgrades to the park infrastructure and amenity and locals recognise it as an important asset. Recent discussions have highlighted an opportunity for the park to be a key feature of an active, vibrant and renewed town centre.

The revival of the ANZAC Park precinct and memorial, incorporating the Driver Reviver stop, creating a water play area that refreshes tired travellers and local children, integrating the unrealised potential of the historic rail

buildings at the rear of the park , activating the space with markets and events and promoting the park as a key feature of the new heritage trail will provide an attraction for residents and travellers alike – a destination of choice.

The History and Heart project uses hard and soft infrastructure and activities to encourage use of this wonderful place while maintaining the integrity and respect it deserves.

WHAT HOW WHO

Kick-start 2015-2016

› Discussions with QRail about re-purposing the disused railway buildings at Miles Station for a café or pop-up enterprise

› Seek funding through Queensland Government ANZAC grants

› Map out an activation strategy for the ANZAC Park Precinct

› Secure funding for a concept plan to reconfigure the Park Precinct to incorporate ANZAC Day memorial activities, community events, pop-up retail and food vendors, water play, driver reviver, Miles Station

› Community consultation

Legacy Team

RSL

Chamber of Commerce

Q Rail

Western Downs Regional Council

Local residents

Moving Forward 2016-2018

› Run an Expression of Interest process for businesses/enterprises to operate from Miles Station buildings

› Run an Expression of Interest process to engage potential vendors and other interested parties in key events at ANZAC Park such as markets, festivals, busking competitions

› Secure funding for ANZAC Park Precinct upgrades and corporate partners for a pop-up festival

› Refurbish Miles Station for new enterprise and offer artist display and performance spaces

› Undertake main street tree planning, signage and co-branding with the Historical Village to lead visitors through the Miles Heritage Trail to the ANZAC Park – a place they must stop.

Young Entrepreneurs Start Up Panel

Local visual and performing artists

Historical Village

Construction partners

Corporate funders

Legacy Achieved 2018+

› Respected Ceremonial Venue

› Open the new Railway Enterprise

› Quarterly markets or community events

› Destination Park for resident and visitor families

Community Partners

Tourism Operators

Market vendors

LEADMiles Chamber of Commerce — Steering Group

FIRST STEPS1. Calls for interest

2. Targeted discussions with RSL, Western Downs Regional Council and QRail

3. Identify supportive local business and activity partners – funding and in-kind support

4. Establish Legacy Team

5. Conduct community information sessions


TITLE

2013 2014 2019

Calls for interest 2014

2015

Scope the family portal 2015

Living Large in Miles

Building on the good work of Council’s marketing and community information programs, develop a family friendly information and advice portal. Hosted by the Miles Chamber of Commerce, the intended audience would be prospective, new and/or existing residents; resource companies; local businesses and community organisations.

MILES FAMILY PORTAL


• Miles Family Portal website with links to Council, Community Centre, Schools, health etc.

• Family centred services (health, education, community services, volunteer opportunities, sport, art, culture)

• Information pack for new residents (hard and digital formats)

• Miles annual event program that is sent to business for their employees and included in the new residents pack

• Advisory service for companies and business seeking to attract and retain staff

• Program of free events/opportunities to try a new activity (vouchers

– ‘try before you buy’)

• Commitment to maintaining up to date information

through all formats

RESOURCES

• Business Plan (including marketing, sponsorship and partnering) - $50k

• Portal – design, infrastructure and resourcing (Year 1 - $70K Years 2-5 $50k)

• Administration resource committed maintaining up to date information and the distribution to key points

PROJECT PARTNERS

• Miles families, parents and carers - support

• Local young people (children, teenagers, young adults) – ideas, coordination

• Miles State School and Miles State High School – support

• Local businesses – venues, support

• Western Downs Regional Council – approvals, programs and funding

• Digital Partner – technology testing and innovation


TITLEINFORMATION

EVENTS & ACTIVATIONLEGACY PROJECT

BACKGROUNDAccess to current information on local services, facilities, activities and events was identified as critical for residents, potential residents and tourists. Companies and businesses seeking to attract and retain staff were interested in providing an information pack promoting the great family friendly lifestyle in Miles. The quality of education, health and community services were considered a ‘hidden gem’ for many families and not clearly apparent until you get there. The mix of sporting and social events showcases the depth of Miles’ community spirit and strength of community networks.

The Community Investment Plan Project Team recognises this family friendly offering sets Miles apart from other towns. The proposed Miles Family Portal will assist in coordination, promotion and maintaining currency of key community information in hard copy and digital formats.

WHAT HOW WHO

Kick-start 2015-2016

› Scope the Miles Family Portal including functionality and interface, information sources, key dates for publishing/updating

› Develop a business plan including marketing, sponsorship and partnering opportunities

› Develop a business case for the advisory service (e.g. Community Centre) for companies and businesses seeking to attract and retain staff and investment

› Commence collating key information including profiles of services, annual event program

Legacy Team

Business Partners

Information Coordinator


› Quarterly review and updates of key information accessed through the portal

› Review distribution strategy particularly with tourism and accommodation operators

› Pilot the ‘try before you buy’ program for residents to try new sport, recreation, leisure and cultural activities

› 3 year funding for the Advisory Service secured

Tourism & Accommodation Operators

Community and Sports Partners

Advisory Service Funding Partner


› Miles Family Portal active and up to date

› Community organisations and services actively approaching to be included in the Portal links

› Funding and coordination strategy developed to ensure continuation

› Review of format and functionality to meet changing technology advances

Digital Partner



2. Targeted discussions with students and P&C from Miles State School and Miles State High School

3. Identify supportive local business and activity partners — venues, program operators


5. Conduct information sessions


TITLE

2013 2014 2019

Secure funding 2014-15

First grants 2015


Making it happen

Establish a “Rising Stars” program which invests in the development of young people in Miles and is used to encourage those aged 15–30

years to act as change agents in the implementation of the Miles Community

Investment Plan.

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

This could include securing funding for an Incubator Fund to provide start up grants (for business, events or study) subject to providing a proposal,judged by a panel of young people.

RESOURCES

• Incubator Fund $20 – 50k

• Support with developing a management/decision making model around the Incubator Fund

• Young people’s time to manage and judge the fund

• Reduced rental shop front which could be accessed by pop-up small business

• Mentoring support for young people involved in small

business & the legacy projects

PROJECT PARTNERS

• Local business and industry — funds and mentoring

• Miles State High School — ideas, peer mentoring, leadership

• Young Entrepreneurs Start-up Panel — ideas, advice, coordination, assessment of projects

• Media partner — advertising, articles

• Entrepreneur mentor and advisor


TITLEENTREPRENEURS

EVENTS & ACTIVATION

BACKGROUNDIn 2013, the Community Investment Plan Team uncovered an energy and enthusiasm from local teenagers and young adults who wanted to take an active role in the future of Miles. What stood out with these young people was their commitment to their town and community, but the sense they wanted to get ahead and knew they were responsible for ‘making things happen’.

The Project Team saw an opportunity to establish a culture of ‘having a go’ and ‘taking a risk’ within this group of emerging community leaders to ensure the town’s

economy and community networks continue to evolve. The Incubator Fund presents a tangible investment in new ideas and emerging business opportunities.

WHAT HOW WHO

Kick-start 2015

› Agree the terms for the program and fund including legal advice, eligibility criteria, fund outcomes, project selection criteria, evaluation framework

› Secure funding and resources for Year 1 pilot

› Launch program and advertise for Expressions of Interest

› Host one day ‘ideas workshop’ in Miles for budding entrepreneurs and teams to shortlist potential projects

› Shortlisted projects

› Complete applications for funding and support

› Young Entrepreneurs Start-up Panel selects project/s and allocates funding and other resources

› Media release to announce successful projects

Legacy Team

Start-up Panel

Media Partner

Entrepreneur Mentor/Advisor


› Projects commence

› Young Entrepreneurs Start-up Panel and Legacy Team check-in with successful projects on progress and provide necessary support

› Work with unsuccessful first round projects to further develop ideas for Year 2

› Host ‘Rising Stars’ profile event for current and potential funders and supporters to secure funds for Year 2 and beyond.

› Conduct review of Year 1 and identify areas of success and opportunities for improvement

Young Entrepreneurs


› Five year ‘Rising Stars’ program funding secured

› Projects actioned

› Strong local interest from young entrepreneurs and small businesses established

› Positive media profile of Miles and its commitment to young people

New funding partners



2. Targeted discussions with Miles State High School and Year 11 and 12 students, Origin Energy, Queensland Gas Corporation, Miles Young People — 20-30 year olds from Burgers and Beer consultation

3. Identify entrepreneur resource — program mentor and advisor



LEGACY PROJECT


TITLE

2013 2014 2019

First event 2015


2015

Markets planning

2016

2016

It’’s our place too

Create safe, attractive and flexible young people’s places and activities

that make them want to stay.


TWO LEADING PROJECTS

• A monthly young people’s night at the local café, with local live music, pizza or cheap food and no structured activity.

• A quarterly “food and fun” market at Anzac Park with mobile food vans and local live music (potential to work with other surrounding towns such as Chinchilla and Roma to offer a roving market over a weekend).

RESOURCES

• Young people’s time to help coordinate the ideas and activities

• Support from Council in coordinating the market, inviting vendors, managing licenses/approvals

• Support from Chamber of Commerce at Miles, Chinchilla, Roma to generate interest from vendors

• Commitment from a local business (eg. café) to extend opening hours to offer a venue once a month

• Start up funding to help facilitate activities of $5K

PROJECT PARTNERS

• Miles families, parents and carers - support

• Local young people (children, teenagers, young adults) — ideas, coordination

• Miles State School and Miles State High School — support

• Local businesses — venues, support

• Western Downs Regional Council — approvals, programs and funding


TITLEEVENTS & ACTIVATION

MAIN STREET

INFORMATION

BACKGROUNDChildren and young people in Miles were overwhelming positive about their town and its community. However, they did have some concerns about the limited entertainment and recreational options available for themselves and their peers.

Young women talked about the need for informal socialising after school and on weekends, without their parents. These places needed to be safe, alcohol-free, affordable and offer a variety of experiences including shopping, food and music. Young men had similar ideas about what was needed in Miles. They also talked about the need for a greater choice in sport and physical activities aside from the team-based sports and opportunities for adventure-based recreation e.g. at Dogwood Creek.

This project will help embed youth friendly activities and spaces within Miles’ existing businesses and natural assets, rather than creating new ‘stand alone’ facilities. This approach needs to be flexible, adaptable and responsive to the changing aspirations of Miles’ children and young people over time

WHAT HOW WHO

Kick-start 2015

› Identify the first project e.g. Miles young people café night, Buskers Corner

› Develop event plan with team of young people

› Publicise event

› Host event

› Event review/blog written by a young person published on Chamber’s website, local media, school’s newsletter and webpage

Legacy Team

School Communities

Business Partners


› Develop a program of quarterly events and activities for mix of ages, abilities and interests

› Secure business and funding partners to deliver program

› Promote event program as part of Miles Family Portal

› Conduct review of first year of events to identify areas of success and opportunities for improvement, and implement recruitment strategy for event coordinators

Young event coordinators


› ‘It’s our place too’ project funding secured.

› Events and activities completed, and fresh activities included each year

› Strong local interest from funding partners, young event coordinators, and local businesses

› Pathway to young entrepreneurs program established, and succession strategy in place for community events i.e. race day

› Positive media profile of Miles and its commitment to children and young people




2. Targeted discussions with students and P&C from Miles State School and Miles State High School

3. Identify supportive local business and activity partners — venues, program operators



LEGACY PROJECT


TITLE

2013 2019


2016

Focus on essentials

2016

2015

Map key sites

2015

3 sites upgraded in 2016

Don’t forget to stop!

A locally developed and driven tourism strategy building upon Miles’ assets – its

people, its story and the town itself.


KEY ELEMENTS INCLUDE

• Focus on Miles as the gateway to the south-west region’s many natural and historic attractions

• Exploration of partnerships with local industries of ‘local experiences’ – with small towns, cultural, agricultural, energy and resource sectors – ‘farm stays’, outdoor recreation, camping

• Development of a program of local events and activities

• Focus on the essentials – great food, rest-stops, accommodation and great service

• Continued investment in the Miles Historical Village as a state leader

• Investigate tourist camping options

• Increase the capacity of local operators through training and certification programs

• Develop skills and employment pathways for students and young people

• Targeted plan for upgrade of town sites and places of interest

RESOURCES

• Arts Council and Historical Village mapping of sites

• Support from Council’s Economic Development Team & Marketing team

• Planning and facilities support from Council

PROJECT PARTNERS

• Miles Historical Village — information, programming, coordination

• Western Downs Regional Council — grants, promotion, information, infrastructure

• Dogwood Crossing — venue, programming

• Local Businesses and Tourism Operators — promotion, funding, skills and employment pathways


TITLEEVENTS & ACTIVATION

MAIN STREET

INFORMATION

TOURISM ENTREPRENEURS

BACKGROUNDBuilding on the strengths of the award winning Miles Historical Village this strategy focuses on Miles as the gateway to the south-west region’s many natural and historic attractions. Miles is well positioned to provide the authentic rural town experience for travellers, history buffs and nature lovers.

The Don’t Forget to Stop Legacy Project could offer a range of experiences such as farm stays, outdoor recreation and camping; continued investment in the Miles Historical Village and creation of a living heritage trail.

Developing the skills and capacity of local operators the tourism gateway will help to strengthen and diversify the local industry base beyond the current reliance on the resource sector.

WHAT HOW WHO

Kick-start 2015

› Historical Village to coordinate an event for the community to nominate and map key places, events and people valued by the community

› Identify an annual program of initiatives including such things as site upgrades as part of the community map and heritage trail

› Chamber of Commerce to host a Dogwood Tourism Gateway Breakfast to invite participation

Legacy Team

Chamber of Commerce

Historical Village


› Develop a coordinated tourism strategy for Miles which includes a commitment to a “service first” culture e.g. great food, great service, great amenity

› Apply for grants for upgrade to critical tourism infrastructure and historical site promotion

› Implement a program of infrastructure upgrades to meet the needs of travellers and tourists e.g. camping, caravan and truck rest stops

› Work with Council and local businesses to implement a main street blitz — shop frontages, tree planting, upgrades to signage, lighting and road reserves

› Pilot ANZAC Park markets and activation

› Pilot temporary closure of Pine Street for day and/or evening event i.e. street eats and alfresco dining, music festival and busking


Local tourism and accommodation operators

Main Street and Pine Street businesses


› Coordinated plan for grant applications and other revenue activities

› Miles Historical Village operations are sustainable

› Heritage Trail has a minimum of 10 sites and site sponsors

› 6 monthly meetings of tourism and accommodation operators and Council to reflect on success of the tourism strategy

Site Sponsors



2. Targeted discussions with Western Downs Regional Council, Historical Village and local tourism and accommodation operators


LEGACY PROJECT


Onward & Upward

The Miles Distrcit Chamber of Commerce will drive these Legacy Projects forward with the support

of a dedicated resource.


PLAN PROJECT OFFICER

2013 2014 2019

Newsletter first event

2015

Discussions with WDRC

2014

2015

Funding for other projects 2015-16

2016


• Progressing Strategic Relationships with Council and Government

• Negotiation with funders

• Kick starting Legacy Projects

• Reporting back to the Community

RESOURCES

• Part time project officer —$20-30K, per annum

• Start up project and facilitation costs —$40-50K

PROJECT PARTNERS

• Local businesses – investment, membership of the Chamber of Commerce

• Energy and Resource Sector - investment, membership of the Chamber of Commerce, support and capacity building

• Miles Community Centre – conduit for community input

• Western Downs Regional Council – funding, capacity building, regional economic development

• Local young people (16-30 year olds) – ideas, succession strategies, web support

• Miles State High School – support, skills pathways, training venue

• Corporate and community partners – funding and volunteers

• Media Partner – promotion


LEGACY PROJECT EVENTS & ACTIVATION

MAIN STREET

INFORMATION

TOURISM ENTREPRENEURS

BACKGROUNDThe Miles Chamber of Commerce and the local community supporters have done an amazing job in securing funding and investing time and energy into developing the Community Investment Plan. The Chamber is committed to ensuring the implementation of the identified Legacy Projects over the next five years but cannot do it alone. The enthusiasm and motivation of local volunteers should be rewarded and supported particularly over the next 12 months to ‘get some runs on the board’ in terms of delivering the Plan through the engagement of a part-time project officer.

This person will kick-start the Legacy Projects and drive them forward, garnering community and business support and providing a coordinated approach to securing funding and investment for the Plan.

WHAT HOW WHO

Kick-start 2015

› Meet with key stakeholder groups consulted during the development of the plan e.g. school children and young people, 20-30 year old Burger and Beer crowd, Respite Service, resource sector families, the business community

› Develop a profile and promote the Community Investment Plan to the local community, businesses and Government

› Create and distribute a quarterly newsletter or media articles about the progress of the Community Investment Plan

› Support the Chamber of Commerce in grant applications for the Legacy Projects and capacity building work

Miles Chamber of Commerce



› Liaise with the Family Portal Legacy Team to ensure up to date and coordinated information distribution about local facilities, services and events

› Seek funding and coordinate one young persons (13-18year olds) event aligned to the Legacy Project It’s Our Place Too

› Coordinate one business focussed event aligned enhance the feel of the main street and town centre (e.g. temporary closure of Pine Street at the ‘Foodies Corner’ for al fresco dining, Main Street window ‘blitz’, purchase of mobile tree planters)

› Discuss ongoing funding opportunities for the Community Investment Plan Project Officer with Council, Queensland Government and business partners

› Continue to maintain the profile of the Community Investment Plan and Chamber of Commerce

Legacy Project Teams

High School Students

Main Street Retailers

Media partners


› Secure progressive funding for legacy projects

› Legacy projects continuing to be implemented beyond Year 1

› Positive media profile of Miles and its commitment to families and the future



FIRST STEPS1. Targeted discussions with Western Downs Regional Council


NEXT STEPS

THE FUTURE

The delivery of the Miles Community Investment Plan projects will require an ongoing commitment from our project partners over the next five years. This may be in the form of:

› Financial commitments/donations to the Chamber;

› In-kind support including time, use of equipment, construction matters, technical and professional skills;

› Sponsorship of events and activities;

› Advocacy and support for projects with government and other partners; and

› Individual/organisational support for Chamber’s efforts in leading this innovative plan.

The projects included in this plan have been selected as legacy projects which will:

› provide momentum for positive change;

› establish a renewed identity for Miles in the 21st century; and

› celebrate and acknowledge the town and resident’s strengths and values.

What ’ s to be done

Fu r t he r I n forma t ionFurther information on the technical investigations and community consultaion is available in the accompanying documents to the Community Investment Plan:

› Analysis Sketchbook and Photographic Inventory › Community Engagement Report

GET INVOLVED

CONCLUSION

The Miles District Chamber of Commerce would like to acknowledge the ongoing support of Council and other supporting partners in undertaking this project. Council’s buy-in has been critical to the Chamber being able to attract funding and support for local community and business.

Chamber looks forward to continuing to work in partnership to progress our Legacy projects.

If you would like to know more about the Community Investment Plan please do not hesitate to contact Chamber:

John Hoffmann President Miles Chamber of Commerce (on behalf of the Project Working Group)

p. (07) 4627 1488

e. [email protected]

Kylie Bourne Committee Member Miles Chamber of Commerce (on behalf of the Project Working Group)

p. 0467 171 225

e. [email protected]

Alternatively if you would like to be a part of progressing one of our Legacy Projects, please complete the relevant section below and return to

Community Investment Plan Working Group Miles District Chamber of Commerce PO Box 231 MILES QLD 4415

MILES FAMILY PORTAL

I love this project & I want to be involved

I can offer:

time resources finance

Name:

Phone:

Email:



I can offer:


Name:

Phone:

Email:

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS


I can offer:


Name:

Phone:

Email:



I can offer:


Name:

Phone:

Email:



I can offer:


Name:

Phone:

Email:

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT PLAN PROJECT OFFICER


I can offer:


Name:

Phone:

Email:

Miles Chamber of Commerce PO Box 231 Miles QLD 4415

SydneyLevel 23, Darling Park Tower 2201 Sussex Street Sydney, NSW 2000t 02 8233 9900f 02 8233 9966

MelbourneLevel 12, 120 Collins StreetMelbourne VIC 3000t 03 8663 4888f 03 8663 4999

BrisbaneLevel 7, 123 Albert StreetBrisbane QLD 4000t 07 3007 3800f 07 3007 3811

PerthLevel 1, 55 St Georges TerracePerth WA 6000t 08 9346 0500f 08 9221 1779

Australia � Asia � Middle [email protected]

SydneyLevel 23, Darling Park Tower 2201 Sussex Street Sydney, NSW 2000t 02 8233 9900f 02 8233 9966

MelbourneLevel 12, 120 Collins StreetMelbourne VIC 3000t 03 8663 4888f 03 8663 4999

BrisbaneLevel 7, 123 Albert StreetBrisbane QLD 4000t 07 3007 3800f 07 3007 3811

PerthLevel 1, 55 St Georges TerracePerth WA 6000t 08 9346 0500f 08 9221 1779

Australia � Asia � Middle [email protected]

Documents

Family friendly great people STRONG HISTORY MILES ... · Group - particularly John Hoffmann, Kylie Bourne, Glenn Strandquist, Kerry Mulholland, Scott Cawley, Sean ... Miles is a vibrant