26 August 2020
The new CEO at the helm of Southern Downs Regional Council is no stranger to the region or the local government sector.
Born and raised in our very own Stanthorpe, David Burges has a strong leadership record in local government with 26 years’ experience across urban, regional and rural councils.
Southern Downs Regional Council Mayor Vic Pennisi said the former Quilpie Regional Council CEO’s extensive networks across all levels of government and passion for community made him an ideal choice for the position.
“David has a wealth of knowledge and understanding of the legislative, human resource, community and economic challenges and opportunities facing Queensland councils, particularly regional and rural councils,” Mayor Pennisi said.
“David will be supported by the Councillors as we work collectively to steer the region through ongoing drought and bushfire and COVID-19 recovery.
“Our recruitment process was comprehensive and thorough, and I would like to thank all the impressive applicants for their interest in working with our Council and community.”
David said he was looking forward looking to meeting the challenges of the current climate and working with the Councillors and Council staff.
“I know that I am coming into this role at a challenging time but I am looking forward to contributing to the opportunities that support the growth and sustainability of the region,” David said.
“I am committed to working cohesively and transparently with Councillors and Council staff to exceed the community’s expectations and deliver a region that is a great place to live, work, invest and visit.
“Having grown up in Stanthorpe, I already have a solid understanding of what our region stands for, what makes it great and what makes it tick.”
Prior to his last nine years as CEO of Quilpie Regional Council, David had held various engineering related positions at Moreton Shire Council, Ipswich City Council, Bulloo Shire Council, Johnstone Shire Council and Waggamba Shire Council, and Director of Engineering and Planning at Goondiwindi Regional Council.
David will commence with Council on Monday 14 September.