- Ricky Burges PSM appointed as Chair of the Great Southern Development Commission
- Regional Development Commissions are key to the Cook Government's regional job creating agenda
Regional Development Minister Don Punch has today announced the appointment of Ricky Burges PSM as Chair of the Great Southern Development Commission (GSDC).
Ms Burges has served as the Chief Executive Officer of Albany Community Care since 2019, leading a team delivering critical services for the region.
She brings with her senior leadership experience across the public sector in Western Australia, previously working as the CEO of the Western Australian Local Government Association, the Perth Zoo and Director General of the former Department of Culture and Arts.
Ms Burges' appointment follows the departure of outgoing chair Bruce Manning, who has retired after more than 21 years of service to the Development Commission.
Mr Manning has built strong networks throughout the region and initiated the development of some very significant projects including the construction of the Albany Entertainment Centre, the Albany Waterfront, the Katanning Saleyards and town centre improvements.
Regional Development Commissions are key to the Cook Government's job creating agenda on the ground in regional WA, working to grow and diversify the State's regional economies.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Don Punch:
"Our Regional Development Commissions play such a crucial role in connecting business with Government, and I have no doubt the Great Southern Development Commission will continue to make those valuable connections under the leadership of Ricky Burges.
"I thank Bruce Manning for his leadership spanning more than two decades, which has driven a substantial diversification of the region's primary production and economic base.
"I wish Ms Burges all the best in her new role as chair of the GSDC."
