The ambitious target is part of the Edward River Growth Strategy 2050 which is about to go on public exhibition, allowing community members to provide feedback and insights.
The strategy has been developed under the guidance of council’s Growth Strategy Project Advisory Committee, which is chaired by Cr Harold Clapham and includes other local residents.
The committee has been instrumental in developing the draft strategy through a community engagement process and extensive background research.
It followed council’s Our Region Your Say report, which council said articulates the community’s aspiration to grow the population to 19,800 people by 2050.
Provided the report is endorsed for public exhibition by Edward River Council at today’s meeting, the draft strategy will be available for viewing and comment for 28 days.
Community members are encouraged to participate actively in this process, as their feedback will be instrumental in shaping the final version of the Edward River Growth Strategy 2050.
At the end of the exhibition period, feedback will be reviewed for potential incorporation into the strategy.
A summary of the feedback, along with an updated version of the strategy, will be presented to council for review at a scheduled briefing in July.
Key components of the proposed community engagement during the public exhibition period include a launch at the Deniliquin Town Hall, community meetings, pop-up sessions, direct engagement with stakeholders, and various communication channels such as social media, newspapers and council's website.
Council’s interim CEO Gary Arnold expressed optimism about the draft strategy, highlighting its importance in guiding the region's growth aspirations.
"Our region is poised for an exciting future filled with promise and growth,“ he said.
“The draft Edward River Growth Strategy 2050 outlines a comprehensive plan to elevate all aspects of our community, lifestyle and economy.”
The draft strategy is expected to be available for viewing from tomorrow.