Message from the Chair - Summer 2025

As we come to the end of another year, it is time to reflect and consider the year that has gone.

It’s been a busy year for RDACC, with 2025 bringing to fruition much of the behind the scenes work with our collaborators and project partners to establish major regional economic and employment initiatives.

Regional Development Australia Central Coast has released its 2025–2026 Central Coast Regional Enabling Infrastructure Priorities List. A strategic roadmap of critical infrastructure projects needed to drive jobs, attract investment, and unlock economic potential on the Central Coast.

In an exciting milestone construction commenced on the long-anticipated Food Manufacturing Innovation Hub. This transformative $17.14 million project, fully funded by the Australian Government, will position the Central Coast as a premier destination for food manufacturing.

Notably, there was significant transformations over the past quarter with John Mouland resigning as CEO of RDACC.

After 12 years in John’s stewardship RDACC said goodbye to an era, the longest serving CEO in the RDA program. We are grateful for John’s leadership and dedication which has left an enduring impact on our organisation and the Central Coast community. On behalf of the Committee, we sincerely thank him for his service and wish him every success in his future endeavours.

We welcomed the appointment of Dr Lisa Barnes as the new Chief Executive Officer / Director of Regional Development. Lisa brings substantial experience across the Education and Arts sectors. Her skills, expertise, and understanding of the Central Coast will be invaluable as we continue to drive regional economic and employment growth.

We have also said goodbye and hello to Committee Members!

We have said goodbye to long serving Deputy Chair Anna Cruckshank and long serving member Mike Dowling, as well as members Ian Lynch, Adam McEwen and Sarah El-Moselhi. I want to extend a heart-felt thank you for the dedication and commitment you brought to your roles. Your valuable contributions are recognised and appreciated.  

We welcomed new Committee members, Nicole Gerschel, Mike Goodman and Courtney Molloy.

All these changes mark an exciting new chapter for RDACC as it continues to champion the growth, resilience, and prosperity of the Central Coast region.

I would like to thank the RDACC staff and Committee members, past and present, for their important contributions in creating an inclusive, vibrant and diverse community here on the Central Coast. I look forward to continuing our work together as we create a region where people, businesses and investments thrive.

I wish everyone in our community a safe and happy break and I look forward to continuing to work together in 2026.

Gail Cottrill

Chair