Former chamber chief to lead Camden’s economic taskforce

“I feel the area is in need of a strong business leadership group,’’ says Adriana Care, who has been appointed as the independent chairperson of the Camden Region Economic Taskforce.

Ms Care, the immediate past president of Narellan chamber of commerce, said she was excited about her appointment to the taskforce by Camden Council.

“To lead this taskforce is nothing short of an honour,” Ms Care said.

“It is my preliminary view that the objective of the taskforce is to progress the economic development goals, policies and strategies by creating a comprehensive plan as well as any other goals for the Camden LGA,” she said.

“The taskforce will develop into a lead agency as an advisor on the implementation of economic development projects in the area, collaborate to develop an economic masterplan and any other pertinent documents and economic development initiatives and projects for the Camden LGA to roll out with key stakeholders in the area.”

Council is establishing the taskforce as an independent company to be run by a board of directors, which will include two councillors.

As well as appointing Ms Care, council has nominated the mayor, Cr Lara Symkowiak, and Cr Peter Sidgreaves as its representatives and directors on the board.

Ms Care is the first appointment to the board.

Once the taskforce is incorporated more directors will be appointed.

When the entire board is formed, Camden Council will work with the taskforce to create key performance indicators that support the aims of the taskforce and council.

The Camden area is one of the fastest growing in the country, with the population forecast to increase from the current 88,000 to almost 230,000 by 2036.

Over this period the area will attract significant government investment for major transport networks and road infrastructure to service the growing community.

“The transformation anticipated for our area within the next 20 years places us in a unique position to develop business opportunities and attract commercial investment,” says Cr Symkowiak.

“It’s important that we apply a strategic approach to economic development to maintain the character of each town centre and offer a diversity of products, services and experiences across the area.

“It is the intention of council that this taskforce will bring together key local business leaders and experts to drive and facilitate the economic growth of the area through leadership, advocacy and coordination,” she said.

“The taskforce will focus on helping council to deliver the right conditions to create jobs, attract investment and to support the growth of business and industry, now and into the future.

“We are very fortunate to have Ms Care as chairperson of the taskforce,’’ the mayor said.

“Ms Care is a successful business owner with the proven skills and experience needed to be a passionate advocate for the economic development of our area.”