Holland legacy continues

The City of Rockingham has named Michael Holland as its new director of community development.

Mayor Barry Sammels made the announcement at last week’s council meeting, which sees the manager of community capacity building step up to replace the outgoing Gay Thornton.

Mr Holland, son of the late chief executive Gary Holland, said he was excited about taking on a new challenge in local government.

“This new role is important to me to be able to build on some of the great work the community capacity team has accomplished over the last four years,” he said.

“In the future we will face the specific challenge of growth and providing community services and infrastructure to new communities.

“I am looking forward to leading the team through these challenges together with some passionate and highly qualified staff.”

Mr Holland said the City faced challenges with its growing population and the need for more services and infrastructure to meet increasing demand.

“I feel confident that the City’s strong ground work over the past four years in long term, strategic planning will provide us with the framework to co-create some clear new goals for the directorate,” he said.

Chief executive Andrew Hammond said Mr Holland, who joined the City in 2009, was a great addition to its executive team.

Mr Hammond said Mr Holland’s passion for Rockingham and work over the past four years had helped secure the promotion.

The City will farewell Ms Thornton at a reception this evening to recognise her 15-year contribution.

Mr Holland will start his new role on August 12.