B2B - Keeping you in the know
Highlights of the 24 January 2017 Council Meeting
View this Publication online - b2bwithatwist . com . au
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Stephen Clarke named inaugural Central Coast Town Crier
Australia ’ s top town crier , Mr Stephen Clarke , has cemented his place as a regional identity , following a decision at last night ’ s Council meeting to crown him the inaugural Central Coast Town Crier .
Working as the Gosford City town crier for the past 26 years , Mr Clarke took out the nation ’ s top town crying accolade last year , when he contested the 25th National Town Criers Championships in Redland , Queensland , and landed three awards for Best Dressed Crier , Best Cry and Champion of Champions .
Council Administrator , Mr Ian Reynolds , said the change in title officially recognises Mr Clarke ’ s contribution to the region and formalises his role at official Council ceremonies and events .
“ Stephen Clarke has been an amazing ambassador for Gosford City and his numerous accolades and national awards are testament to his talent and experience ,” Mr Reynolds said .
“ As the Central Coast has become a region in its own right , it is only fitting that someone who has been such a tremendous asset to his local community can be recognised for his representation across the entirety of our new local government area .
“ Previously , Stephen formally commenced all citizenship ceremonies at Gosford and he will now appear at Central Coast citizenship ceremonies across all venues .”
For Mr Clarke , being the official Central Coast Town Crier is an opportunity to showcase his passion for the wonderful place he calls home .
“ I have always had an incredible passion for our hometown and I believe we are all so lucky to be a part of this amazing community ,” Mr Clarke said .
“ I am exceptionally proud of where we live and whenever I have the chance to tell people about the natural beauty , friendly atmosphere and marvellous advancements happening in our local area , I do .
“ It is an honour to officially represent the Central Coast and now I have the opportunity to sing the praises of our entire region wherever I go .”
Having lived on the Central Coast since 1958 , Mr Clarke is a member of the Ancient and Honourable Guild of Town Criers and is passionate about promotion and advancement of the Central Coast region .
Even Mr Clarke ’ s town crying robes are representative of our region ’ s local identity ; with the yellow trim representing golden beaches , the green denoting the scenic local hinterland and the extensive blue commemorating the surrounding ocean .
Establishment of Audit , Risk and Improvement Committee
Council has resolved to establish an Audit , Risk and Improvement Committee to promote effective and efficient service delivery under a framework of openness , transparency and accountability .
The purpose of the committee is to review aspects of council ’ s operations including risk and financial management , fraud control , governance and compliance , and collection of performance measurement data . The committee will also provide information to assist in continuous improvement of council functions .
Consisting of five voting members ( two councillors and three independent external members ), the committee will help council achieve its objectives by bringing a systematic , disciplined approach to evaluate the effectiveness of risk management , control and governance processes .
Council Administrator , Mr Ian Reynolds , said the committee has an important and timely role in council ’ s governance framework .
“ Formation of the committee at this time helps to set strong foundations and will assist in a controlled transition to new arrangements , following the election of the new council in September ,” said Mr Reynolds .
“ The committee will hold a three-year tenure , meeting at least four times per year , with meetings to include review and endorsement of annual audited financial reports and external audit opinion .
“ We will be seeking a diverse skill set of committee members who collectively demonstrate desirable leadership behaviours , and can be a positive force for change and improvement across the organisation .”
Council has requested that the CEO undertake an open