FEBRUARY 2024 - NEWSLETTER

Mark McKenzie to lead RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven  

RDA Illawarra recently announced its Chair Eddy De Gabriele and CEO Debra Murphy are stepping down from their roles as the organisation transitions to expanded boundaries later this year. Eddy De Gabriele retired as Chair on 31 December 2023. Debra Murphy’s last official day was January 31.

The changes follow the finalisation of a review of Regional Development Australia (RDA) boundaries conducted by the Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, which will see the Illawarra and Shoalhaven (including Jervis Bay) incorporated into one region. The changes will take effect from 31 March 2024.

Mark McKenzie was appointed Chair of RDA Illawarra on 1 January 2024. He will continue the work of RDA Illawarra and lead the transition of the existing organisation to RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven over the next two months.

Mark is a senior executive with formal qualifications in Civil Engineering and Business and considerable experience in public affairs, government relations and business leadership across multiple industry sectors. He currently leads the national industry body representing the Australian fuel industry and is working with this critical services sector and national stakeholders to position the industry positively for the delivery of Australia’s Net Zero 2050 ambitions.

Mark’s immediate priority will be to install a new Board and CEO for the broader region as soon as possible, with a specific focus on ensuring that the priorities of the Shoalhaven are given appropriate weight in a revision of the RDA’s Strategic Plan for the Illawarra Shoalhaven Region.

Read the media release here.

Learn more about the Deputy Chair and Board vacancies here.

RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven Board roles - apply now

Regional Development Australia is calling for local leaders to drive regional economic development in the Illawarra Shoalhaven region of NSW.

We are seeking a Deputy Chair and Board Members to develop and drive strategy for regional development.

People with commitment to economic development, vision, drive and experience who are able to foster strong communication between local communities and all levels of government are encouraged to submit an application.

Women, First Nations Australians, people from diverse cultural backgrounds, and people with disability are encouraged to apply.

If you are interested in joining the volunteer Board of RDA Illawarra Shoalhaven, download an Information Pack  and apply using the Application Form.

Apply by 5pm 16 February 2024 to join a national network of local people creating local opportunities.

RDA Illawarra farewells Eddy De Gabriele

Departing RDA Illawarra Chair, Eddy De Gabriele was farewelled on February 1 at a celebration event at Hotel Totto.

The region’s leaders came together to share their reflections and celebrate Eddy's remarkable 20-year tenure as the Chair of Regional Development Australia Illawarra and the Illawarra Area Consultative Committee (IACC). 

Under Eddy's leadership, numerous accomplishments and collaborations shaped the region's progress. The event provided an opportunity to recollect these achievements, acknowledge his positive leadership, and express gratitude for Eddy's outstanding service to the Illawarra. Thank you to all who attended.

TAFE Have your say survey

Did you know that TAFE NSW supports more communities and people facing disadvantage than any other training provider?

TAFE NSW wants to do more to help communities thrive and wants to hear from you about how they can do that.

You can help by completing the Have Your Say Survey by 11 February.

Free Business Health Checks

Wollongong City Council and Enterprise Plus are delivering a free one-hour business health check. 

These one-hour sessions are held with your Business Connect advisor, who will help you review your business, provide advice on support that may be available and answer work-related questions.

Whether your business is established, new or in its planning phase, a session with a Business Connect advisor can help you start, run, adapt, or grow your business. The sessions are designed to identify opportunities and potential pitfalls to help your business thrive.

These will be available monthly during 2024 with the first to be held on Monday 19 February and Tuesday 20 February. One-on-one sessions will be run from the ground floor at Council's Administration Building.

Book a free business health check now:

Monday 19 February 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 20 February 8:30am - 4:30pm