Kiama Council held the inaugural meeting of its newly formed Finance and Major Projects Advisory Committee this week, marking a significant step forward in delivering strategic oversight and community-focused outcomes.
The new committee brings together the expertise and energy of community members, Councillors and senior Council staff to guide the financial and major project priorities of the municipality.
Mayor Cameron McDonald, who chairs the committee, said the group had got off to a great start: "There are some big projects on the horizon – including the proposed depot merger and looking at our other identified catalyst sites including Council's Administration Centre, Havilah Precinct and Spring Creek. We've got the right people on board who are ready, willing and able to tackle these projects."
"It was heartening to see all our new committee members roll up their sleeves and get to work this week. I'm excited about what this committee is going to achieve for Council and for the good of our community."
The committee was formed following a Council resolution in August to merge the former Finance Advisory Committee and Major Projects Advisory Committee. The new structure aims to streamline decision-making and enhance collaboration across key areas of Council's operations.
Following a rigorous evaluation process, six community members were appointed to the committee who were selected for their industry experience, community ties, ambition and ability to help deliver on Council's objectives.
Community members appointed to the committee are Lynette Cuell, Rob Danby, Matthew Dawson, Marco Maldonado, Warwick Shanks OAM and Paul Smith (see bios below).
The committee also includes Councillors Melinda Lawton and Stuart Larkins, as well as Council's Chief Executive Officer Jane Stroud, Director Corporate and Commercial Joe Gaudiosi, Director Strategies and Communities Ed Paterson and Head of Implementation Kimberley Norton.
Finance & Major Projects Advisory Committee - our community members
Lynette Cuell
Lynette has extensive experience in banking and finance with 15 years of this experience in policy and projects. Lynette is currently a board member of Multicultural Communities of Illawarra and the Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee.
Rob Danby
Rob is the owner/ director of Cukuna Sales with extensive experience in owning and running diverse development, aged care and other businesses within the local area. Rob's experience spans finance, legals and commercial, development and project oversight.
Matthew Dawson
Matthew brings a wealth of experience from a range of industries, a qualified civil engineer with experience in leading complex infrastructure projects including the financial management of projects.
Marco Maldonado
Marco has extensive experience in real estate and project delivery on major projects within the Oceania region. Marco has worked on projects in the role of Financial Commercial Advisor for the Government on Barangaroo, Honeysuckle redevelopment Newcastle, Cook Cove for Bayside Council, ACT Government Light Rail project and urban renewal projects.
Warwick Shanks OAM
Warwick has been a partner at KPMG for almost 25 years where he has led audit engagements for many local councils. He has extensive financial acumen and strong local connections. Warwick is the Deputy Chancellor of the University of Wollongong, and the Chair of Merrigong Theatre.
Paul Smith
Paul is the founder and chairman of Total Sport and co-owner of the Sydney Kings NBL and Sydney Flames WNBL franchises. Paul has extensive experience in corporate finance, governance and project oversight. Paul is a board member of Regional Development Australia (RDA) Illawarra Shoalhaven and has extensive communication, contract negotiation and media skills.
Photo: Finance and Major Projects Advisory Committee members L-R: Mayor Cameron McDonald, Paul Smith, Rob Danby, Lynette Cuell, Marco Maldonado, Cr Stuart Larkins, Deputy Mayor Melissa Matters and Matthew Dawson (Note: Warwick Shanks OAM and Cr Melinda Lawton attended virtually).
