When the South West Development Commission board meets in November to make decisions that affect the region, there will be a new face round the table.
SWDC chairman Stuart Hicks has announced that Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association chief executive officer Pip Close has been appointed to the SWDC board of management.
Meanwhile, Ernie Kay and Brian Piesse have been reappointed.
“I welcome the reappointment of Brian and Ernie who bring a great deal of knowledge and experience to the SWDC board table,” Mr Hicks said.
“I have closely observed and admired Pip’s work in helping bring together the successfully amalgamated Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association in recent years.
“Pip’s detailed knowledge of business and the South West region, together with her experience in one of the nation's leading tourism associations, will be of great benefit to SWDC and the South West.
“I congratulate all three on their appointment and look forward to working with them.”
Mr Hicks thanked outgoing board member Louis Evans for her service.
SWDC is the State Government agency responsible for the sustainable economic and social advancement of the South West region of Western Australia.
Its governing body is responsible to the Regional Development Minister for setting the direction and priorities of the Commission.
It has nine members selected from community and local government nominations, as well as Ministerial appointments. The Commission’s chief executive officer also serves on the board, rounding out the total number of board members to 10.
SWDC is part of the West Australian Government and is focused on making the South West region an even better place to live, work and invest. Boosting the economy and improving quality of life are key areas of focus.
In partnership with other organisations, SWDC is working to deliver a number of transformative projects around the region including the Busselton-Margaret River Regional Airport development and Transforming Bunbury’s Waterfront project.