Farewell to Economic Champion
Posted on February 29th, 2016
Outgoing Central Highlands Mayor Peter Maguire has been honoured for his leadership in the region’s economic sustainability and growth.
The Central Highlands Development Corporation (CHDC) used its recent board meeting to pay tribute to Councillor Maguire, who has been CHDC Board Director since its inception in 1997.
Cr Maguire is retiring as Mayor, and therefore his board membership with CHDC, at next month’s Local Government election.
“Peter has demonstrated an unwavering support and commitment to CHDC’s work in fostering and driving economic development in the Central Highlands,” CHDC General Manager Sandra Hobbs says.
“It’s a reflection of his keen understanding that a strong community can only be underpinned by a sustainable economy.”
Project highlights for CHDC under Cr Maguire’s leadership include the Central Highlands Meatworks Feasibility Study; Central Highlands Investment Prospectus; the appointment of a Tourism Development Officer; the 2013 and 2015 Central Highlands Business Excellence Awards; and the biennial Central Highlands Conference – Investing in our Future.
“Peter has been a great public advocate of the work we do and has championed our cause at every opportunity with State and Federal leaders,” Ms Hobbs says.
“Not to mention he’s been a top bloke to work with who’s become a great friend of all the CHDC team.”
Cr Maguire has returned the compliments, saying the region’s future is in good hands.
“It’s been a pleasure to work with such a passionate, hard-working and talented team at CHDC,” he says.
“Their expertise has played a key role in attracting new investment to the region and supporting local businesses and producers to reach their full potential, during good times and bad.
“The slowdown of the coal industry in the past two years only strengthened my belief that having an economic and tourism development agency is critical to ensure these areas get the attention they need in to the future.”
Cr Maguire’s replacement will be the new Mayor elected next month.
EDITOR’S NOTE: For further information, please contact Nicky Fisher 0414 360 697.
