REDLANDS Coast must shake its reputation as a place “too hard” to do business if it is to secure its share of Olympic investment and future jobs, new Champion Redlands Coast CEO Cindy Corrie says.
In her first detailed comments since taking the role, Ms Corrie made it clear that changing perception – and reality – would be central to her agenda.
“It starts with re-positioning ourselves from being known as a city that is ‘too hard’ to do business with, or ‘not enough growth’ to warrant investment,” she said.
“It will take time, but it’s about shifting both perception and reality.”
Ms Corrie said the region could not afford to fall behind as other areas aggressively chase opportunities linked to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“Investment is competitive and other regions are being highly ambitious and aggressive in defining their Games legacy and driving long-term economic outcomes for their communities,” she said.
“We can’t afford to waste any more time.”
She identified three immediate priority projects – the Redland Whitewater Centre, Birkdale Community Precinct and Capalaba Revitalisation Project – as key to signalling the region’s intent to investors.
“These are the projects that set the tone for how serious we are about economic growth,” she said.
Ms Corrie said the Olympics presented a rare window to elevate Redlands on the global stage, with key locations set to feature prominently.
“We deserve our share of that attention and investment, but we need to be in a position to get it here and get it over the line.”
Despite the focus on attracting external investment, Ms Corrie said local businesses would remain central to the strategy.
“Real value comes when that investment flows through to local business and supply chains,” she said.
“Our role is to advocate for and promote a strong economic environment and let our business community do what they do best – innovate and continue to be the engine room for the local economy.”
She also addressed community concerns about overdevelopment, arguing economic growth was about more than just building.
“Balance is important but economic development is more than just ‘development’,” she said.
“This is about building a stronger future not just a bigger one.”
Champion Redlands Coast, which is funded through membership rather than government support, will also look to expand and diversify its base under Ms Corrie’s leadership.
“A focus for the next 12 months will be to broaden our membership, ensure it is diverse and reflective of industry and investors,” she said.
Ms Corrie said the organisation needed to lift its external profile to compete more effectively.
“We’re very good at talking about Redlands in the Redlands. We need to get better at talking about Redlands outside of Redlands to lift our investment profile,” she said.
While working with all levels of government, she emphasised the organisation’s independence.
“We won’t always agree and that’s ok,” she said.
“At the same time, CRC is an independent voice for industry and investors.
“Independence is important because it allows us to advocate clearly and effectively.”
Ms Corrie said success would ultimately be measured by tangible outcomes.
“We’ll be judged on outcomes and we’re comfortable with that,” she said.
And for residents questioning the role of the organisation, she had a clear message.
“I understand that perspective. People want to see outcomes, not just conversations and ambition,” she said. “What I’d say is this: the work we do is about what our city needs over the next 10-20 years.”
“Champion Redlands Coast is the leader our city needs to attract the right investment, ensuring our city can continue to be a great place to live, work, learn, and visit.”
