Bunbury man Danny Griffin appointed new chair of South West Development Commission

The South West Development Commission is bringing a new face in for the new year, announcing the appointment of Danny Griffin as its new chair.

Mr Griffin brings a wealth of experience of business and industry to the role, having previously served as the Western Australian plant manager for Laminex Australia.

A Bunbury local, he has also served on various community boards, including as president of the Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce and Industry, chair of UWA Engineering Industry Advisory Board and a board member of the Forest Industries Federation WA.

Mr Griffin said he was looking forward to helping the region “continue to thrive”.

“I feel very privileged to be joining the SWDC, an organisation that has helped our region grow for decades,” he said.

“Building on the good work of those before us, we will continue to act as a catalyst to good ideas and initiatives. There is so much to be excited about occurring in our region.

From the developments in Collie, to the area’s potential to become a major tourism magnet and the focus on making sure manufacturing careers are an essential part of this healthy regional economy. “

He succeeds Nick Belyea, who had been in the role of chair since July 2017.

SWDC chief executive Mellisa Teede welcomed Mr Griffin to the board, thanking the outgoing Mr Belyea for his pivotal contribution to the development of the Busselton Margaret River Airport.

“Through his role on the South West Development Commission board, Danny will set priorities for the commission and shape the future of the South West,” Ms Teede said.

“Danny has a strong background in working with industry and is passionate about connecting with the community — he will be an asset for the commission and the region.

“I would like to thank and express my gratitude to Nick, who leaves a legacy to the South West including his role in unlocking the region’s tourism potential through attracting a Jetstar passenger air service.”