THE new-look board of Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast (RDALC) will meet for the first time this month in Mount Gambier, setting a clear direction to bring jobs and investment to the region.
MiniJumbuk chief executive Darren Turner, The Border Watch general manager Dennis Jackson, Hello Friday co-owner Simone Kain and Glenelg Shire media manager Liz McKinnon will fill four vacant committee positions as a result of the expiry of board appointments.
Board chair Peter Gandolfi said the new appointments followed an extensive search for strong business or regional leaders who champion local job creation and sustainable regional growth.
“We are building on our regional and industry diversity and we are extremely pleased to have new representation from Naracoorte, Penola and Mount Gambier in both the private and public sector,” he said.
“The new members were chosen on the skills base they bring to the board which ranges from manufacturing and exporting to media, tourism and local government.
“There is a broad range of skills the new members have volunteered with their experience to the board.”
Mr Gandolfi said the new-look board brings strong business acumen and fresh vision and drive to the organisation’s existing skills base.
“We are confident this dynamic mix of professionals will further strengthen our focus on attracting investment and jobs,” he said.
“A clear mandate is given to RDAs through its charter to work towards attracting investment to create jobs in our region.
“There is a broad range of opportunities throughout the Limestone Coast and as a board, we will pursue that investment, along with infrastructure investment, which will be identified in an infrastructure audit to be released in the near future, for example the transport capability of our region.”
Former ABC South East regional manager Alan Richardson has been reappointed to continue to work alongside Mr Gandolfi as deputy chair.
Forestry consultant Lew Parsons, Kimberly-Clark Australia Millicent Mill manager Scott Whicker and City of Mount Gambier’s city growth general manager Judy Nagy will continue as board members.
Grant District Mayor Richard Sage did not seek reappointment.
RDA chief executive David Wheaton thanked Mr Sage for his “valuable contribution and his ongoing efforts to give back to the community”.
Further board appointments will be made later this year as terms expire.
