Delegates shown region’s potential

A delegation of industry officials from Singapore and Malaysia visited Broome earlier this month to look at investment opportunities in agriculture and tourism.

The visitors were hosted by Nyamba Buru Yawuru and were accompanied by John Hoon, the organisation’s new independent director on the board. The delegation arrived on February 11 and spent the next day with NBY executives and managers.

During the trip the potential investors visited business ventures, including the gubinge plantations at 12 Mile and agriculture areas to show potential agricultural opportunities.

The group also went to Roebuck Plains Station where they toured the station, had a presentation on potential pastoral, agricultural and irrigation development as well as information about Yawuru’s strong environmental and cultural management of the country.

The visit was followed by lunch and a helicopter tour showing off the extent and scope of the area and how it fitted into Yawuru’s entire conservation estate.

In the afternoon, they met with other local stakeholders at the Shire to hear more about planning and opportunities for Broome’s growth in a range of industries.

NBY chief executive Peter Yu said the visit was important because it would create new connections and help to “drive future investment” in Broome.

“The Singaporean businessmen were on an exploratory trip and interested in what we had to offer in possible investment opportunities,” he said.

“We obviously offer a unique opportunity through our developing agricultural and tourism industries, natural environment, culture and proximity to Asia.

“We have a long and strong connection to Asia and are well positioned to capitalise on geography and history that will enhance our regional economy.

“NBY is looking to Broome’s future with sustainable and balanced industries that drive opportunities for growth to benefit both Yawuru and the broader community.”

However, Mr Yu said the visit also highlighted the need to better understand more precisely the Asian market demands and how to cater for those demands. “We have a way to go in developing our infrastructure and other logistics requirements to be able to be cost competitive, and to have projects which are investment-ready.”