RWA’s new CEO in listening mode

Both Mr Wakelin-King and Ms Keneally proposed a more open and responsive approach to consultation from the RWA and the Ministry, with community forums, websites and notice boards being some of the methods put forward.

“We must go forward and into the future,” Mr Wakelin-King stated with an optimism shrouded in a caution of coming into a new community and striking a balance between the government and the public. For the present, the CEO will remain in listening mode.

here is, however, a sheen of confidence to the new CEO, who has a background of special appointee positions for the NSW Government. Having been in charge of transport for the 2000 Sydney Olympics and CEO for World Youth Day it’s safe to say that he is a man who gets things done and does them well. Now the challenge of revamping one of the most underdeveloped and neglected communities in the State awaits his Midas touch.

The Minister also proclaimed her future prospects in shaping the Redfern-Waterloo area through urban development and regeneration. Also standing on a platform of protracted communication, Ms Keneally confirmed she was eager to proceed with shaping the area’s future together with local residents.

In tandem with future development, the Minister expressed the general consensus for the preservation of heritage buildings at existing sites set for enhancement such as the North Eveleigh precinct’s rail history. The minister affirmed the mutual desire for maintaining the area’s history through some of its existing buildings and its relevance for the community.

“We can’t be a community unless we have something to share and the one thing we all share is the past,” Ms Keneally said.

Though the Minister’s statement was counter to the evening’s message of moving forward, the past was one issue that continually arose in questions from residents. One question in particular was regarding whether Ms Keneally will continue to hold her position after the 2011 election. Given the past performance of the Government, there is a concern that any of the plans enacted between now and the election may not be carried through if Labor is not returned to office. 

Until then, the Minister and the CEO reassured the residents and REDWatch they will use the Ministry of Planning and the Government to achieve mutual aims.

“I’m focused on the time I have here and I want to make every minute of it count,” Ms Keneally pledged.

Photo: Andrew Collis - Kristina Keneally and Roy Wakelin-King meet the locals

Source: South Sydney Herald April 2009 www.southsydneyherald.com.au