Connecting the Coast part of grand business vision

A CO-FOUNDER of the listed global environment company Pacific Environment Limited (PEL) has identified the southern Gold Coast as a future eco epicentre following her appointment to the board of Connecting Southern Gold Coast (CSGC).

Kristin Zeise’s experience starting up and managing Pacific Air & Environment, one of PEL’s founding companies, provides the board with insight into issues associated with business sustainability, industrial operations and the environment.

With a degree in chemical engineering from the University of California, Zeise recognised the immense potential in creating a sustainable green eco-centric business hub for the southern Gold Coast.

 “I look forward to working with our acting chairman Professor Ryan, the board, and the team at CSGC in working through strategies that complement Council’s economic and environmental vision for this region,” she says.

Following the appointment of general manager Jim Wilson last year, Zeise will join Murray d’Almeida on the board, which also includes Professor Neal Ryan from Southern Cross University, James Sparke, George Costi and Andre Michau.

D’Almeida, founder of the Retail Food Group and Bartercard chairman, is expected to bring upper management skills to the CSGC.

“I am delighted to be a part of the CSGC board and look forward to the opportunity to contribute the knowledge I have gained through business management both in Australia and overseas,” he says.

CSGC general manager Jim Wilson says a key focus for 2009 will be the development of partnerships with organisers of new and existing events and ventures in the southern Gold Coast region. Several meetings have already taken place with key stakeholders involved in southern Gold Coast events, including Wintersun and new ventures such as Surf World Gold Coast.

“We are talking to Wintersun organisers to discuss the development of a strategic partnership between the Festival and CSGC that ensures a long-term involvement tenure for the Festival and wider coverage and improved economic return to the region,” says Wilson.

CSGC is also assisting Surf World to construct a business plan to enable them to move forward, locate premises and secure funding.

“Considering the first time a surf board was ridden in Queensland took place at Greenmount early last century, we believe this project is a worthwhile potential new tourist and cultural attraction for the region,” adds Wilson.

“Connecting Southern Gold Coast is off and running, gaining momentum and we are encouraging the public and business sector to come forward with ideas. Our aim is to build successful partnerships that will connect southern Gold Coast locally, nationally and globally through business and tourism.”

The Gold Coast City Council initiative was set to promote and encourage industry, tourism and environmental sustainability from Currumbin Waters to Coolangatta.