South Australian tri-city alliance, Spencer Gulf Cities, received an injection of new blood with new mayors elected in each of the three representative cities in the South Australian council election in November.
Mayor Leon Stephens, from Port Pirie, was appointed chair and Mayor of Whyalla City Council, Clare McLaughlin, was appointed deputy chair at the first meeting of the association since the recent elections.
Mayor Stephens said the importance of the tri-city alliance remained as strong as ever.
“The alliance between Port Pirie, Port Augusta and Whyalla has been going for over 20 years and remains as relevant today as it ever has.
“As three industrial cities we share many common issues and understanding of how these can impact on our communities, through the good times and the bad.”
Mayor McLaughlin said she was looking forward to contributing towards Spencer Gulf Cities and working with all stakeholders.
“The Upper Spencer Gulf has some incredible investments that will completely change the face of the region and the state into the future.
“This association is so important. As a co-ordinated region and one voice, we have more chance of obtaining funding and assistance from the State and Federal governments.
“It is such an exciting time for the Upper Spencer Gulf – we have an amazing future ahead of us.”
Port Augusta Mayor, Brett Benbow, another newly-elected mayor, said the sheer scale of the region’s economic transition over the next few years will need strong coordination across the three cities.
“We need to work together to make sure we maximise these opportunities and can plan ahead for the significant increase in workforce and associated services and infrastructure that will be required.
