Council has declared its support of innovative business projects will remain despite the departure of two key staff members from their Economic Development and Innovation unit.

With Fiona Wilson, former Economic Development and Innovation Manager, recently resigning, and Senior Economic Development Officer Katrina Houghton soon to take up a position as Director of Economic Development and Community Service with Cook Shire Council, questions were being raised as to the future of Council's support for inventive business practices within the region.

But Peter Boyd, Manager Planning Strategies who oversees Economic Development and Innovation for Council, said it will remain an important aspect of the local government's work.

“Economic development and innovation has been identified as an ongoing priority, demonstrated by the introduction of new grants and incentives programs, such as the Investment Attraction Incentives Program, Economic Diversification Fund and the Infrastructure Contributions Incentive Program," he said.

Mr Boyd added the future of the Tropical Innovation Awards, which is being held this Friday night in Cairns, is also secure.

“The Tropical Innovation Awards were established three years ago and the growth in that time has been phenomenal. It has drawn sponsorship and support from various industries and uncovered many successful products and initiatives.

“The awards program has also spawned an annual conference that brings together innovative industries and businesses to enhance their experience of the awards and their chance of success on the open market.

“While it was initially established as a three-year project, the awards’ success has ensured its continuation.”