Stepping in to steer SW ship

Stepping in to make sure the South West Development Commission’s flagship projects are on the right track is acting chief executive officer Anna Oades’ role for the coming months.

Ms Oades has stepped into the role following Don Punch’s retirement after nearly 18 years with the commission.

She said seven years with the commission as people and place strategic manager had given her a good grounding for the role.

The flagship projects she will oversee include the Bunbury Waterfront Development Project, Busselton Foreshore Redevelopment and the $22 million Manjimup revitalisation, she said.

“I am ready to oversee the strategic vision and steer the steady ship on the path that Don set,” Ms Oades said.

“We can’t lose sight of innovation in the region and I will make sure the quality of life is maintained, with an increased focus on inclusion for the indigenous and people with mental illness.

“In my previous role with the commission I learnt a lot about how things work and we are really lucky because everyone takes responsibility for their work here.”

Before Ms Oades came to the commission she was working in a strategic role in Perth and she said stepping in as chief executive officer was an exciting opportunity to use some of those skills again.

Ms Oades took over the role on July 1 and will continue as acting chief executive officer for at least a few months until a more permanent arrangement is made.