Home » City Growth Director named

City Growth Director named

Warrnambool City Council has appointed Luke Coughlan to the position of director of city growth.

Mr Coughlan, who has been acting director in the role over the past eight months, will oversee council functions including strategic and statutory planning, environmental health, economic development and the visitor economy.

“We’re really pleased to appoint Luke to the role,” chief executive officer Andrew Mason said.

“He has done a terrific job as acting director and has a great work ethic. Luke has a background in engineering and land development and is well placed to work with the development sector to ensure that our approval processes produce good outcomes for the community.

“I’ve been lucky enough to have served in the position for the past eight months and worked in the directorate over the past two years,” Mr Coughlan said.

“Warrnambool is a city which has enjoyed steady growth over an extended period.

“This comes with its challenges but also tremendous opportunities.

“The directorate’s three departments comprise enthusiastic staff who as a team provide many years of technical expertise along with new ideas for the future.”

Mr Coughlan joined council six years ago working firstly as a manager within the City Infrastructure directorate.

“I’d like to thank the staff in the City Infrastructure and City Growth directorates who have helped me along the way and put the council in a strong position when it comes to managing the growth of the city.”

When not at work Mr Coughlan is kept busy with a young family and also “makes up the numbers” in the South Rovers reserves.

“Warrnambool is a really beautiful and liveable city with tremendous natural assets and opportunities for residents,” he said.

Digital Editions


  • A golden celebration

    A golden celebration

    Cockburn Libraries will mark a major milestone in 2026 – 50 years of serving, supporting and connecting the community. Spearwood Library opened its doors on…

More News

  • Temora address housing shortage in tiny hamlet

    Temora address housing shortage in tiny hamlet

    Proposed Ariah Park Village Subdivision to Address Housing Shortage – Lots from $90-000 to $110,000 in the small picturesque hamlet. Temora Shire Council is investigating the delivery of a proposed…

  • Douglas Shire seeks renewal

    Douglas Shire seeks renewal

    Creative store opens in Mossman through empty spaces program. A new store and community art space has opened in Mossman thanks to a program designed to breathe new life into…

  • New youth and community centre for McLeay

    New youth and community centre for McLeay

    A new Youth and Community Centre planned for Macleay Island will service the needs of the growing community and will also be designed so it can support community recovery following…

  • Grants close soon

    Grants close soon

    Queensland councils have until 31 March to apply for Round two of the State Government’s Secure Communities Partnership Program, which offers up to $400,000 per project for CCTV, lighting and…

  • Sod turned on major upgrade at Paul Fitzsimons Oval

    Sod turned on major upgrade at Paul Fitzsimons Oval

    Work has officially begun on the redevelopment of Paul Fitzsimons Oval with Alice Springs Town Council and the Australian Government turning the first sod this morning. Mayor Asta Hill and…

  • Lockyer send flood expert north

    Lockyer send flood expert north

    Lockyer Valley Regional Council has answered the call for assistance from a community impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Koji, with a staff member from Council’s Disaster Management Unit deployed to support…

  • From books to bots

    From books to bots

    Tenterfield Library is proving that technology is more than just tools and devices. From coding and robotics to tech support, the Library has become a place where curiosity, connection and…

  • Major repairs for levee

    Major repairs for levee

    Goondiwindi Regional Council has endorsed its largest-ever capital works project to repair and reinforce critical sections of the Goondiwindi levee, following significant erosion after recent floods. At this week’s Ordinary…

  • Stretching for a good cause

    Stretching for a good cause

    Ballarat residents stretched, smiled and snuggled their way through a unique Kitten Yoga event that combined relaxation with a heartwarming cause – helping kittens find their forever homes. Hosted by…

  • Murray Library upgrade open

    Murray Library upgrade open

    The Murray Library refurbishment is now complete, and the revitalised space is officially open to the community. The upgrade delivers a brighter, more accessible and flexible library that reflects the…