Local Government Minister speaks at Chamber dinner

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce hosted a dinner with State Minister for Local Government Mr Paul Toole at Ettalong Diggers on June 15.

"It was an honour to have the Minister for Local Government address the Peninsula Chamber of Commerce at what was arguably one of the most important times for local government in New South Wales," said chamber president Mr Matthew Wales.

"With the recent amalgamation of Gosford and Wyong Councils, Mr Toole explained to over 50 guests the background for local government reform and the advantages of the merging of the two organisations," Mr Wales said.

"Mr Toole was particularly pleased with how smooth the transition had been with the Central Coast Council and that the merged model would set a high standard for the way local Council's operate in the future," he said.

"The Peninsula Chamber has been very supportive of the amalgamation and the creation of the ward system that will largely ensure fair representation for the Peninsula in what will be one of the largest regional councils in NSW.

"There is no doubt that the new council will face some big challenges, but it is the chamber's view that merged councils are the best way to ensure that regional NSW has more influence when it comes to lobbying for State and Federal funds.

"This is a view shared by the Minister.

"The chamber is already meeting on a regular basis with the new chief executive officer for the Central Coast Council, Mr Rob Noble, so as to ensure that the new administration team are aware of our priorities," Mr Wales said.

Media release, 7 Jul 2016

Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce