West Coast Mayor Phil Vickers said the West Coast Council was undertaking several important projects that will have long term benefits to the community.

Mayor Vickers said projects underway including the Strahan Airport Feasibility Study, a Sport and Recreation Review and the West Coast Brand Project are all about long term thinking.

“In the past Councils have been merely about the basic provision of roads and rubbish, but these days it is essential that we have well informed plans in place to help ensure the long-term sustainability of our region,” Mayor Vickers said.

“Such planning is also essential if the West Coast wants to attract any external funding, whether it be from the State or Federal Government, or other sources.”

Mayor Vickers said corporate support had come on board in both instances of the Strahan Airport Feasibility Study and the Sport and Recreation Review.

“Council is pleased to have partnered with organisations such as Petuna Aquaculture, TasPorts, RACT Strahan Village and others to ensure we can get the planning right before going ahead with any major projects,” Mayor Vickers said.

“A lot of this work is also a result of the community’s feedback as part of the West Coast Community Plan 2025 and demonstrates Council’s strategic approach to providing for the future.

“While some may question the use of external consultants, they bring an extensive amount of experience not currently available within the organisation.

“For example, when we have the likes of Deloitte Access Economics undertaking the study of the Strahan Airport, we are gaining a very high level of analysis into a key asset in our community.”

Mayor Vickers encouraged anyone wanting to take part in consultations to either contact Council directly or visit Council’s website at www.westcoast.tas.gov.au to ensure their voice was heard