New appointments to Peel Development Commission

7/8/00
Regional Development Minister Hendy Cowan today announced four new appointments to the board of the Peel Development Commission.
Mr Cowan said Development Commission boards included an equal mix of community, local government and ministerial appointments.
The new appointments to the Peel Development Commission board are:

• Ms Sharon Piscioneri, farmer and small business operator, of Waroona (community, three-year term);

• Cr Aileen Mitchell, City of Mandurah (local government, three-year term);

• Mr Colin Lane, motor vehicle dealer, of Mandurah (ministerial, three-year term); and -

• Cr Carl Rep, Shire of Waroona (local government, reappointment, one-year term).

Mr John Collett was appointed chairman of the board, replacing Mr Owen Tuckey, whose term on the board has expired.
Mr Cowan commended Mr Tuckey for his contribution as former board chair.

He said the Development Commission played a crucial role in helping to maximise social and economic development opportunities throughout the region.
"This includes encouraging regional investment, identifying new growth opportunities and maximising job creation. Another important function is the provision of information and advice to local businesses," the Minister said.
"This year, the commission will have an even greater role to play, following the launch of the State's first Regional Development Policy in May.
"This sets the groundwork for a new, stronger focus on regional development, providing a clear direction for Government agencies to improve service delivery.
"The regions underpin the wealth of the State, and the Government is committed to overcoming any impediments to their growth."
Mr Cowan said the community representatives had a special responsibility for ensuring the expectations of residents were taken into account in decision-making.
All local government nominations were received and processed by the Western Australian Municipal Association which conducted a ballot for each region. All local governments in the region voted for nominated candidates.
"I congratulate the members on their appointment and wish them every success throughout their term of office," Mr Cowan said.
The full list of board members is: Mr John Collett, Mr Peter Bowey, Ms Sharon Piscioneri (community); Cr Ian Richards, Cr Karl Rep, Cr Aileen Mitchell (local government); Mr Colin Lane, Ms Jan Star, Mrs Pauline Beamond (ministerial).
Media contact: Peter Jackson 9222-9595