The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) and the Torres Shire Council (TSC) have renewed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work closely together on a range of initiatives.

The MOU was signed on 14 December between the TSC Mayor, Cr. Vonda Malone and TSRA Chairperson, Mr Pedro Stephen AM.

Mr Stephen said both organisations have always worked collaboratively on projects and activities with joint outcomes for residents living in the Torres Shire Council and the wider Torres Strait region.

The MOU arrangements aim to enhance the quality of life for people throughout the region including health and wellbeing and sustainable opportunities for strengthening the regional economy, Mr Stephen said.

This includes identifying and co-ordinating joint strategic objectives, shared working arrangements to address social, economic and environmental needs and community projects, and facilitating the continual improvement in the delivery of community development programmes and projects.

Cr. Malone said the MOU is an important conduit to exchange and address matters collectively with the TSRA that support the growth and development of the communities of the Torres Shire Council.

Another important aspect of the MOU was research and planning, Cr Malone said.

“Cooperative planning for future regional service and infrastructure development and cooperating and consulting on research and development will all form part of our work together under the MOU.”