The state government has announced the appointment of Graham Thomson as the chair of the Regional Development Council for the next two years.
The state government has announced the appointment of Graham Thomson as the chair of the Regional Development Council for the next two years.
Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls will be advised by the council.
The principal purpose of the council is to promote development in the regions, develop policy proposals, facilitate liaison between the State's nine Regional Development Commissions as well as local, State and Federal government bodies.
Full announcement below:
New chairman appointed to Regional Development Council
Portfolio: Regional Development
Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls has announced Graham Thomson's appointment to a two-year term as chair of the Regional Development Council.
The council is the peak regional advisory body to the Minister.
"Its principal purpose is to promote development in the regions, develop policy proposals, facilitate liaison between the State's nine Regional Development Commissions as well as local, State and Federal government bodies," Mr Grylls said.
Originally from a farming background in the Wheatbelt, Mr Thomson spent 18 years in the Pilbara mining industry and was actively involved in local government as deputy president of the Roebourne Shire Council, before relocating to Kalgoorlie-Boulder 19 years ago.
He is the current chair of the Goldfields-Esperance Development Commission, a City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder councillor, operates a consultancy business and has extensive involvement in regional and community organisations.
"Graham brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and expertise to provide leadership and guidance to the Regional Development Council," the Minister said.
"He has been an active member of the council since 2006 and demonstrated a capacity to understand regional issues and contribute positively to the regional development agenda.
'Graham will bring to the council a new and fresh perspective required in order to meet the State Government's regional development objectives."
In announcing this appointment, Mr Grylls also recognised the contribution of outgoing chair, John Cowdell.
"John has provided excellent leadership during his term as chairman and I would like to thank him for his dedicated work to the regional development program," he said.
