Lakes Entrance Action and Development Association (LEADA) held its annual general meeting at the Central Hotel last Thursday evening with some new faces elected onto the committee.
Four people – Su Robbins, Imie Lemans, Michelle Whelan and Arja Toivanen – have joined the seven person committee, with Boyd McPhee, Kris Cordery and Sandi-Kate Hutchins the continuing members.
Boyd paid special tribute to two committee members, chair of Business Tourism and Events, Alison Brewer, and Terrence Hoffmann, secretary of LEADA, who are both stepping down from their positions. Bruce Hurley will remain as chair of Infrastructure Sub-Committee and Sharen Cameron will step in to chair the Business Tourism and Events Sub-Committee.
All newly elected personnel were excited about the year ahead.
“As everyone would be aware Lakes Entrance has been a hive of activity over recent months with works on Bullock Island, Jemmys Point Lookout, Myer Street, Marine Parade and the footbridge surrounds, but to name a few,” chairperson of LEADA Boyd McPhee said.
“LEADA also had important input into making the New Year Fireworks, Winter Festival and Rocktober great events and help organise Sunday markets which they will continue to do.”
After the AGM a public meeting was held which had good attendance. Four guest speakers spoke about Lakes Entrance’s future development – MP Darren Chester, East Gippsland Shire Council chief executive officer Fiona Weigall, FLOAT organiser Andrea Lane and LEADA representative Bruce Hurley. Questions were also presented to the panel.
All speakers spoke of the incredible development seen in Lakes Entrance over the past five to 10 years. They all agreed there is more to be done including the construction of a sports stadium near the Aquadome, the Krauatungalung Walk (footbridge to Eastern Beach loop), developing the arts network and expanding walking tracks around the town.
The panel was also asked about the previous shire offices on Palmers Road hill.
Ms Weigall explained there were many concepts on the table to develop the whole area, not just the building. She said there is a need for a venue to accommodate emergency services.
“Overall, it was a very successful evening. LEADA is keen welcome new members to share their ideas,” Boyd said.
