Regional Development Australia – Central Coast (RDACC) is proud to announce the recent reappointment of local business and community leader Phil Walker as its Chair.

Long-term Central Coast resident and local business leader, Mr Walker is dedicated to growing the Central Coast as a strong, viable and sustainable economic centre.

“I am extremely honoured to continue to serve the Central Coast on behalf of RDACC. As a resident of more than three decades and an active member of our local business community, I am passionate about growing the opportunities for economic and social advancement here in our region,” said Mr Walker.

“We all know how lucky we are to live in this truly unique part of the world and I am determined to continue to grow a thriving and prosperous region for the benefit of future generations.”

The appointment made by Minister for Regional Development, Territories and Local Government, the Hon Dr John McVeigh offers continuity and support to many of the RDACC initiatives delivered under Mr Walkers tenure – namely the Regional Economic Development and Employment Strategy (REDES), the Central Coast Food Innovation Region Project and the Regional Enabling Infrastructure Priorities Initiative.

“Now is an exciting time for RDACC with much of the hard work that has been happening behind the scenes beginning to bear fruit,” added Mr Walker.

“Partnering with the University of Newcastle and Central Coast Industry Connect (CCIC) has been a huge boost in achieving our aims of growing our local food industry, creating new jobs in this sector and building sustainable regional business competitiveness.

“Our REDES partnership achievements include the attraction of over $700 million in infrastructure funding for essential enabling infrastructure works and in excess of $30 million of National Stronger Regions Funding being secured by the Coast to support key regional projects including the Central Coast Performing Arts and Conference Facility, Upgrades to Somersby Industrial Park and the delivery of Phase One of Tuggerah Sporting Precinct.”

RDACC also continues to be an important conduit between all levels of government, business and our community to regional drive collaboration, innovation and enhanced economic outcomes.

In addition to his position as RDACC Chair, Mr Walker is Chair of the Board for Mingara Recreation Club, a board which he has served on for more than 22 years. He has previously served as Chair of the RDACC Board for the past 4 years.

Appointments will be made for the RDACC Deputy Chair and remaining board members by 30 June 2018.