David French | 12/07/2010 8:28:42 AM

This article was first published in The Morning Bulletin under the heading Budget on 12 June 2010.

Fellow columnist Angry Allison is not backward in coming forward when passing comments about our fair town, and Petros Khaliserad has no difficulty in fingering a few of our “leaders”. Despite our areas many attributes, both writers make valid points. For too long, their criticisms and others like them have been swept under the carpet.

Compared with other centres, the last 20 years has seen our region fall further and further behind. Opportunities abound, but initiatives too often get tangled in petty political debate, or warring factions within the economic development tribes. This is a symptom of a shrinking pie, and a lack of individuals capable of getting the pastry to rise. Mary Carroll suggests that we might be able to attract New Zealanders to the region – but with the premium Coastal resort almost falling down, and Great Keppel in limbo, where will they stay? Will there be any taxis to greet them at the airport?

In this week’s State Budget, more than $5.1 million is being directed at indigenous people and other disadvantaged groups in Rockhampton. Specific programs included $512,061 to prevent substance abuse, and $1.31 million for a diversionary centre as an alternative for police custody. As noble as these endeavours are, they should elicit sadness and anger. Sadness, because we are all part of the human race; anger because few people black or white have the guts to stand up and address the real issues.

The real issues are addressed weekly by Noel Pearson in his column in The Australian. Again and again Noel reiterates hidden racism, the misplaced efforts of white do-gooders, and the reluctance of the indigenous community itself to get on the front foot. In the latter category, pulling high achievers down is common - locally an indigenous model sustained injuries as a result of apparent jealously, and clever apprentices are told they have sold out to the white man.

Despite the wide range of positive budget initiatives that have been secured for the region, healthy communities are not underpinned by handouts, but by a growing and diverse economy. Such communities cope with disadvantaged people and get them on track. Those that don’t rise with the tide are pulled into line. These environments are demanding and invigorating. Rockhampton could be the Melbourne of the North, but right now it is the Melbourne of the pre-Kennett era. What’s missing - positive social attitude.

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