General News
25 March, 2026
New partnership cemented
TABLELANDS Regional Council and the Urban Design Institute of Australia (UDIA) Far North Queensland branch have formed an important new partnership to reinforce a shared commitment to collaboration and sustainable growth across the region.
Tablelands Mayor Rod Marti, chief executive officer Nikola Stepanov and Placemaking general manager Greg Bowden recently met with UDIA Queensland’s Kirsty Chessher-Brown and FNQ Branch president Nathan Lee Long in Atherton to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), that will enable the organisations to collaborate to build on the unique opportunities for regional development across the region.
The agreement forms part of UDIA Queensland’s expanded regional presence in Far North Queensland, with the Tablelands now formally incorporated into the institute’s newly-renamed Far North Queensland Branch.
“It is fantastic to become part of the UDIA network and this partnership between the UDIA and TRC recognises the Tablelands as a growth hotspot in Far North Queensland,” Mr Bowden said.
“With our focus on economic development and placemaking we continue to build our reputation as an agricultural hub, a tourism powerhouse and as we grow, we are offering that true alternative for regional resident liveability and affordability.”
Operating for more than 50 years, UDIA Queensland is a non-profit, peak industry body for regional development and urban design, supporting members across the public and private sectors to partner in creating world-class communities.
“Regional development is critical to Queensland’s growth,” Ms Chessher-Brown said.
“The MoU with Tablelands Regional Council is another important step. It provides a framework for closer collaboration as we work together to support sustainable growth and strong community outcomes across the region.”
For more information about UDIA Queensland, visit www.udiaqld.com.au.
