Think HBR

From the editor

HBR clip
The continued support by Newcastle City Council for the extension of the light rail currently being built is to be welcomed as a logical step in improving transport in Newcastle.
 
It is an issue that business should get behind to improve the local economy and community more generally.
 
Whilst the 2.7 km of light rail being constructed will offer significant benefits to the CBD, it could obviously be much more valuable as a transport link if it could offer further connections and also enhance the ease of park and ride options.
 
Newcastle City Council has begun discussion with Venues NSW regarding the redevelopment of Broadmeadow's Hunter Sports and Entertainment Precinct and the logic of including this important destination to a larger light rail grid.
 
Council has also recommended Glendale, the University, John Hunter Hospital and Mayfield as other proposed destinations to be added at a later date.
 
Although construction of the CBD light rail is not due to be complete until 2019, now is the time to look ahead so we can maximise our transport options and continue the transformation of Newcastle into a world-class city.
 
The overwhelming support of members of the Wests Group for the acquisition of the Newcastle Knights is good news for the Hunter region, including the business community.
 
The sports sector is an increasingly important component of the economy and it is great to see that the region’s most identifiable sporting brand having a much more secure future.
 
Coaching great Jack Gibson is quoted as saying “Winning begins in the front office” and this is already being proved correct with the Knights winning consecutive games after the first announcement of the Wests intention to take over the Knights.
 
We should not underestimate how the success of local sporting teams can raise the sentiment of the local community, resulting in improved consumer and business confidence.
 
The Wests Group should be congratulated for their support of our major local sporting team and for the region in general.
 
Garry Hardie
Publisher & Editor

Other Articles from this issue