The implementation of the outcomes of the independent review meant a more rigorous merit-based RDA Chair, Deputy Chair and Committee member appointment process was implemented. Earlier this year the Federal Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government, the Hon Dr John McVeigh MP, announced my appointment as Chair of the Logan & Redlands RDA Committee.
I believe my appointment as the RDA Chair is giving the RDA a focus on developing tangible, regionally-based projects in collaboration with key stakeholders. Our role is not about competing but working with the local business, community and government leaders to achieve sustainable economic growth and social capital for the Logan and Redlands Region.
This past six months has seen major changes in the structure of your RDA Committee with new members being appointed and retiring members bidding farewell.
I would like to acknowledge departing members for their efforts in representing this region and wish them all the best for the future. They include Ashish Shah, David Gardner, Tim Keeler, Nicola Dowding and Mike Pearson.
Your new committee members are:
- Ms Kim Kerwin, Group Manager, Economic Sustainability and Major Projects, Redlands City Council (and Deputy Chair of your RDA Committee)
- Ms Chiou See Anderson, Owner and Managing Director, Elements Third Age Living @ Springwood
- Mr Ross Elliott, Regional General Manager, APP Corporation
- Mr Patrick Forbes, Business Partner, PYReco International Ltd
- Dr Douglas Hunt, teacher at San Sisto College and a Board member at Carmel College
- Ms Anne Livingstone, Research and Projects Director, Global Community Resourcing Pty Ltd
- Mr John O’Brien AM, a recently retired businessman
- Mrs Karen Prentis, self-employed.
I look forward to working with this highly experienced group of people as we take forward sustainable economic growth and social capital for your region.
I would also take the opportunity to announce the appointment of our new Director of Regional Development, Steve McDonald. I am sure Steve will quickly become a familiar face in our region.
I would encourage all in the community to contact Steve or myself to discuss topics of interest that we can assist with in your region. I will ensure that we provide as much topical commentary and information related to our region through our website, social media and these quarterly updates but also look forward to hearing from those of you in our community that would like to share your ideas and strategies with us here at your RDA.
I am looking forward to meeting more of you out and about in our region over the next three months. I am excited by the opportunity to be part of the development of our regional economy and commit my Committee to this goal.
The Hon. Gary Hardgrave
Chair
Regional Development Australia Logan & Redlands