Chamber re-elects long-serving president

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce elected its new executive committee for the year at its general meeting on Monday, February 7, and long-serving president Mr Matthew Wales was returned to the position unanimously.

"I am very mindful of the trust that the Peninsula Chamber members place in me to speak on their behalf on issues that affect the local business community," said Mr Wales.

"This is an important year for the Peninsula and our Chamber will be very proactive on a number of fronts including obtaining commitments from the major parties in the upcoming State election.

"Top of our list are commitments to the continued State funding of the Ettalong Beach Channel, advancing the reconstruction of the West Gosford intersection and increased funding for local roads," he said.

"We will also be seeking funding commitments for the upgrading of the intersection of Lone Pine Ave-Ocean Beach Rd, the upgrading of the Rawson Rd roundabout and a commitment to the upgrading of the beachfront reserve at Umina Beach and Ocean Beach.

"At the Council level, the Chamber will be pursuing the Peninsula Planning Committee proposal that was presented to Gosford City Council last year and also following up the expenditure of the $2 million of Federal funding for the Ettalong Beach Foreshore Masterplan.

"Federal Member for Robertson Deborah O'Neill came good with the $2 million foreshore funding promise after seeking the Chamber's advice on its priorities prior to the last Federal Election.

"The continued upgrading of the foreshore is important for the long term survival and success of the Ettalong Beach town centre.

"The timing is important after the recent approval of the proposed Tesrol development on The Esplanade," said Mr Wales.

The Peninsula Chamber of Commerce executive members include vice president Mr Andrew Tregent, secretary Mr Adam Crouch, treasurer Mr Alan Gleeson, Mr Wayne Dowdle, Mr Josh Kerr, Mr Josh Collins, Ms Mary Rose Kapigeno, Ms Sue Fowler, Mr Tom Tregent and Mr Jim Bohle.

Media Release, 16 Feb 2011 Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce