Council forms new-look team to support community development

Narrabri Shire Council has announced it is set to deliver on its strategic objectives for the Narrabri Shire small business community.

With the recent Council organisational restructure completed, the Tourism and Community Development section’s new and existing staff members have amalgamated to support local businesses from their joint office based at the Narrabri Region Visitor Information Centre.

“Council’s decision to base all Tourism and Community Development staff at the Visitor Information Centre allows businesses to access the full complement of staff in one place,” Director Corporate and Community Services Lindsay Mason said.

“With the recent appointments for new and existing roles in this section, staff are focused on building relationships with local businesses and increasing access to the Council staff and resources.

“Council have always had a strong presence in the tourism and small business community and we are looking to take that to the next level.

“With the increased prospect of several state significant projects in our shire, Council more than ever needs to be able to assist in providing information, support, and skill development to our small business community as well as ensuring we actively promote our competitive advantage for businesses looking to establish themselves in our Shire,” Mr Mason said.

“The team is led by Tourism and Community Development Manager, Nicola O’Neill.

“Ms O’Neill is excited to be closely involved in the economic and business development of the community and to be able to implement strategies to increase tourism to the Narrabri region. Other team members include Sandy O’Rourke who joined the team as the Visitor Information Centre co-ordinator in January, Alex Christakos who has filled the promotions and administrations officer role, Gilly Goddard has recently commenced as the small business liaison officer, Gilly’s role is to provide support and information to our small businesses and actively seek opportunities to enhance and grow our small businesses.

“Existing positions round out the new section with Amanda Wales, in the grants officer role and Jane Linehan, as community development officer.

“The new-look section is the culmination of a meticulous restructure that focused on ensuring Council had the required resources in the right areas, at the right time to deliver on Council’s strategic direction and vision to the community,” Mr Mason said.

“The team is looking forward to capitalising on progressing the established Narrabri Region destination brand, strengthening existing economic promotion and community development service provisions.”