South West Development Commission
Chairman's report
with
Stephen Harrison
The past year has been a memorable one for the South West Development Commission.
From stepping in to meet changes in delivery of tourism development, to assisting communities affected by major employers shutting their doors, to exploring international trade opportunities for local businesses, the Commission carried out a valuable service to the region.
A notable aspect of the Commission's work in 2010/11 was working in partnership with Regional Development Australia - South West, local government authorities and other organisations to identify funding priorities and help secure grants for projects important to the growth of the region. Helping to attract Royalties for Regions funding for the expansion of the Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre was one of our wins over the past 12 months.
It's also worth noting that the Commission had to rewrite its record books on more than one occasion.
In what was a record-breaking year for the Commission, in the course of assisting businesses and organisations to secure suitable employees vital to their operations, staff processed more skilled migration certificates than in any other year.
The Commission also received more applications for funding through the South West Events Program than in any previous year, and received more applications for funding through the Regional Grants Scheme component of Royalties for Regions than any other region in WA.
These grants schemes are important because they provide organisations with the finances required for projects to make the leap from paper to reality. They also supply the necessary funds to carry out vital community services, many of which are run by volunteers. In particular, it was exciting to see how Royalties for Regions funding is helping to breathe new life into the South West region, with some significant projects completed in the year in review - an urban renewal project in Brunswick was one of them.
During 2010/2011 a review of the structure and operation of the State's nine regional development commissions was undertaken. Whilst the review generated some uncertainty about the future, it helped to emphasise the importance of the Commission to the region. The CEO and staff of the Commission demonstrated immense professionalism despite the anxieties that naturally occur in such a period of review. Amongst the review recommendations accepted by the Government was a new and exciting role in coordinating the production of regional blueprints to guide development in the region.
With 2010/11 behind us, I would like to recognise the role of my fellow board members in guiding the work of the Commission. Each board member brings valuable skills and experience to the table, not to mention a passion for making the place an even greater place to live, work and invest.
I would also like to thank all staff at the Commission for their
continued efforts to create a region of excellence during the year
in review.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge the Minister, the Hon Brendon
Grylls, and his staff for their continued leadership, inspiration
and support for our wonderful region.
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