THE Mitchell Environment Advisory Committee (MEAC) was set at the Mitchell Shire Council’s June Council meeting.
The vote was carried unanimously, with a 12-person committee appointed for the next two years.
The members of the committee are Marie Gerrard, Norbert Ryan, Rob Eldridge, Michael Watson, Maxine Van Zuylen, Lisa Zieren, Ian Dempsey, Ian Julian, Bradley Thomas, Paul Macgregor, Charlotte Aberdour and Melissa Stagg.
Council also took the time to acknowledge the contribution of previous committee members, while also giving recognition to retiring member Trevor Vienet, who had served since 2012 and moved to the Heritage Advisory Committee.
Councillor Claudia James commended the members of MEAC for stepping up.
“I’d like to congratulate the list of names. There’s some very talented, skilled people there. I know most of the people on the list, and believe me, they really know about Mitchell Shire and its environmental values. They’ll give the best advice regarding the environment to inform council officers,” she said.
“I’d also like to give special thanks to Trevor Vienet for his contribution over the years. It’s a pity we’re losing him, but he has another interest in history, and he’s gone across to the Historical Advisory Committee and they’ve benefitted from his many talents and interests.”
Councillor Nathan Clark said MEAC would provide valuable information for council.
“I think another thing that is important to consider is having an effective Environment Advisory Committee that helps us inform the built environment, the liveability of the areas we live in, and forming a vital leg under our advocacy for ensuring we have good liveability outcomes for our community,” he said.