I must acknowledge the tremendous work that Anthony undertook as General Manager of the former Boorowa Council and his role as the Interim General Manager of the newly formed Hilltops Council.

I would love to list the works achieved and funding grants allocated to both Boorowa and the Hilltops during his management period but unfortunately there just isn’t enough space in this column.

Anthony was a General Manager with great vision and a willingness to think outside the box. What I admired the most was his integrity, vision and hard-working ethic to get the job done.

Anthony and his family will be a great loss to our region and community but they leave with the knowledge that their contribution will always be remembered and admired. I wish them all the very best for the future. There is no doubt in my mind that the result of the vote by Council poses a serious challenge for the leadership of this organisation.

I would consider first and foremost the challenge of filling the positions that are currently vacant, most notably the Director of Infrastructure role, pivotal in the delivery of an enormous grant and major works program with a very fast approaching deadline. There have also been a number of resignations or retirements in key roles throughout the organisation that I’m sure the leadership team are hoping to advertise as soon as possible to ensure the smooth operation of Council business.

The now Acting General Manager Mr David Aber has a challenge on his hands of which he understands the enormity of. This Council was elected to deliver and I will be doing my utmost to ensure this is achieved.