Making the case for “Business Thrives Here” at SomethingQ
In August, I headed to SomethingQ and the Regional Enablers Summit in Brisbane to represent the Capricorn Business Hub. Fifteen regional enablers from across Queensland were each asked to pitch one bold goal for their part of the state.
My bold goal for Central Queensland is that people come here because business thrives here, and only once they arrive do they discover the lifestyle as a bonus.
Right now, the lifestyle, the community, the lack of a commute and affordable housing are the main reasons people move to Rocky. They’re great reasons, but instead of being the reason people come, I’d like them to become the reasons people stay. The reason people should come in the first place is that Central Queensland is a great place to come to start and run a business.
That goal is a big part of why the Hub exists. We give new and innovative businesses in the region the physical and supportive space to thrive, with somewhere to work from and the mentoring, networks and encouragement that small businesses need.
Stuart Varrall Presenting our Bold Goal at SomethingQ August 2026
The rest of the day was just as useful. It started with breakfast with Minister Andrew Powell, who launched Ideas into Impact, Queensland’s science and innovation strategy. I also spent a lot of time with hub leaders and founders doing great work in their own regions, and came home with plenty of ideas worth trying here.
If you’re building something in Central Queensland, or thinking about it, come and see us at the Hub at 55 Denham Street or pop by one of our events, bringing the community together.
By Stuart Varrall, Entrepreneur In Residence, Capricorn Business Hub
Comments