New faces for Development Commission

The South West Development Commission has added four fresh faces to its board.

Its new chairman is Margaret River resident Stuart Hicks — former director general of Transport in WA and WA Planning Commissioner.

Mr Hicks said he was looking forward to playing a role in shaping the South West over the next three years.

‘‘The South West is the most populous region in the State, as well as the most popular,’’ he said.

‘‘Our regional output is the biggest of all the State’s regions.

‘‘Western Australia’s South West has a bright future, and it is an incredible personal privilege to help the region fulfil its promise.’’

Mr Hicks is taking over the position from Stephen Harrison.

The other new members of the SWDC board are Bunbury resident Greg Duff, Busselton man Ernie Kay and Collie shire president Wayne Sanford.

Returning board member, Busselton Mayor Ian Stubbs, has been named as the deputy chairman of the SWDC.

The other returning board members are Manjimup shire presidentWade De Campo, Dr Louis Evans, Sue Daubney, Brian Piesse and the SWDC’s chief executive Don Punch.

Mr Hicks said the SWDC’s job was to promote economic and social development so the region was a great place to live, work and visit.

The SWDC board is responsible for setting the strategic direction and priorities of the commission, a statutory authority of the State Government, which works to enhance the region’s economy and quality of life.

‘‘We will continue working closely with people in the region, with local government, not-for-profit bodies and the community to equip the region to take advantage of opportunities,’’Mr Hicks said. ‘‘Ensuring adequate services and facilities for all the people in our region, regardless of their stage of life, is a priority of the commission.’’

Mr Hicks also said Royalties for Regions had been a big boost throughout the South West.

'‘We look for sensible initiatives that build on the wide range of skills and resources available in the South West,’’ he said.

‘‘The SWDC is giving priority focus to the delivery of high quality infrastructure, and enhancing quality of life for the region’s residents.’’