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Report by Mr Andrews (Communications Manager) updating the
Committee on Venture Southland projects and activities for July and August
2015, was tabled.
In the absence of Mr Andrews, Mr Casson spoke to the
report.
Performance targets exceeded 2014-2015; in discussing comments
relating to this issue Councillor Kremer stated it was pleasing to see
performance targets have been met, however queried the possibility of a
breakdown of the activities and projects included within these targets.
Lonely Planet Accolade for Southern Tourism; the
Committee was informed that Southern Tourism had received praise from the
“Lonely Planet” publication with special mention made of
Fiordland National Park and Stewart Island.
Significant Funding Applications lodged during
this particular period namely Around the Mountains Cycle Trail and Curio Bay
Natural Heritage Centre.
Around the Mountain Cycle Trail where the Official
Partner Programme was initiated with personal visits to prospective
accommodation, hospitality and activity operators throughout Northern
Southland.
Joseph Parker Fight Event was considered a successful
event in terms of positive exposure for the region.
Southland Digital Strategy was submitted to
the Minister of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE); provision of
the strategy allows Southland to participate in the Urban Fibre Mobile
Broadband.
Aeromag Survey Extension; $343k of the $686k
target local share has been committed and Environment Southland has finalised
its commitment. Southland Survey will commence in the summer of 2015/16.
Silicon samples are being investigated and a comprehensive prefeasibility
will follow.
Aquaculture; 4 out of the 9 sites have been
investigated as worthy of further investigation.
Electricity Transmission Pricing Methodology;
the Committee was informed that
Southland
Stakeholders Southern NZ businesses are paying $64 million more each year
since 2004 towards the upper North Island grid development.
Awarua Space Station; the Committee was
informed that 2 new Ground stations have recently been commissioned and 4 new
proposals have been prepared for consideration by International Clients. The
Winton Ground Station planning is well advanced. It was noted this project is
self-funded and not relying on ratepayer’s contributions.
Lean programme; the Committee was informed
seven Southland companies
attended a
recent presentation which highlighted the Lean management principles, of
focusing on adding value and eliminating waste for businesses.
Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority
(EECA); the Committee was advised that the EECA are working with Venture
Southland to lower energy-related carbon emissions in Southland with the
object to improve air quality and provide local employment and business
opportunities.
Christchurch Rebuild; it was reported eight
local businesses are partaking in the Christchurch rebuild.
Revenue Attraction; comment was made that Year
to date Venture Southland has secured additional $6.5 million revenue into
the region on top of ratepayer’s contribution.
Also covered in the report for
July/August 2015 was a report on projects and activities that come under the
umbrella of;
Southland Tourism
Destination Fiordland
Conference and Events
Community Development
Business and Strategic Projects
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