CQU Gladstone Head of Campus, Associate Professor Robert Prater has been appointed to the Gladstone Economic and Industry Development Board (GEIDB).

Associate Professor Prater (pictured) said the appointment to such a key Government board showed CQU was regarded as a critical element of industrial development in Gladstone.

The GEIDB works in cooperation with the Queensland Department of State Development to manage, develop and promote the Gladstone State Development Area (GSDA), 21 000 hectares of land specifically set aside for future industrial development.

Mr Prater will be a member of the board for the next three years. He places a high priority on forming strong links between industrial development and research and development.

Member for State Development and Innovation Tony McGrady said it was important for the board to draw on the specialist knowledge and skills of its members and that Associate Professor Prater’s expertise in education and training will be important in achieving development in the region.

"The Government recognises that having an appropriately skilled workforce is an essential element to ensure ongoing growth in the Gladstone region,” Mr McGrady said.

Board member for the past 11 months, Danial Rochford, approved of the new board membership.

“I look forward to working with the board and staff to promote growth in the region and I applaud the minister over the selection of the board members,” Mr Rochford said.

The GEIDB’s first meeting for 2005 is scheduled for late February.