New chairs for Pilbara, Wheatbelt development commissions

Former Horizon Power chair Brendan Hammond and MercyCare director Rebecca Tomkinson have been appointed to chair the Pilbara and Wheatbelt development commissions, respectively.

Mr Hammond succeeds retiring chair Chris Gilmour at the Pilbara Development Commission, following his eight-year tenure as chair of Horizon Power and six years as the head of the Dampier Port Authority’s board.

“Brendan has an extraordinary track record in the private and public sectors as well as deep engagement with the Pilbara and with indigenous economic development,” Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan said.

“He brings intelligence, drive and energy to all his work. I am confident he will provide tremendous leadership to strengthen the Pilbara in this time of transition.”

Ms Tomkinson, meanwhile, replaces Tim Shackleton as chair of the WDC, adding to her existing board role at MercyCare.

She has previously served as chief operating officer at Baptistcare, and is a former manager at Bankwest and director at UnitingCare West.

Ms MacTiernan said the incoming chair’s credentials and experience were impressive.

“It’s fantastic to have such a high-calibre leader at the helm of the Wheatbelt Development Commission board,” she said.

“Her commitment to improving the lives of the most vulnerable members of our community, and influencing public policy, are valuable assets for the role.”