Coffs Council names new GM to guide city’s growth

THE new General Manager of Coffs Harbour City Council has been described as the “right person” to manage the region’s rapid growth.

Murray Wood was officially appointed during an extraordinary meeting of councillors on Monday evening, 25 August.

The former Dubbo Regional Council CEO will start in the role on 8 December.

Mayor Nikki Williams said the recruitment process was never just about finding someone to manage the organisation.

“It was about finding the right person for this city and for our team,” she said.

“Coffs Harbour is growing fast and with that comes both opportunities and challenges.”

Those challenges include a shortage of affordable housing, significant homelessness and a community divided by the proposed Jetty Foreshores development.

“We need strong and thoughtful leadership to guide us through that growth, and I believe Murray is the right person to help us take those next steps,” Cr Willliams said.

Mr Wood, who has also worked within the state government’s Department of Regional NSW, said he was looking forward to listening and learning about the community.

“Councils are about services to the community and custodians of community assets,” he said.

“It’s a time [personally] for a new challenge, professionally as well, and it’s the right time for [my] family.”

Mayor Williams paid tribute to Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick who has served in the role since the shock departure of Natalia Cowley in January.

“Andrew has provided steady leadership during this important transition, always keeping both our staff and our city at the centre of his decisions,” she said.

“His dedication, professionalism, and care have been invaluable.”

Ms Cowley, who resigned for undisclosed reasons, turned around six years of operating losses to make the City of Coffs Harbour one of the “most liquid” local government areas in NSW.

As she was in Coffs Harbour, she is now the first female General Manager of Moree Plains Shire Council.

By Sue STEPHENSON