City of Busselton appoints new director of community planning

The City of Busselton has announced Gary Barbour will take on the position of director of community planning following an extensive recruitment process.

With Mr Barbour’s appointment, the City’s new executive leadership team is now complete.

The City said Mr Barbour brought with him a wealth of experience and knowledge following a career in local government and the private sector. He is currently the director of sustainable communities at the City of Bunbury.

He will replace Paul Needham, who left the City last month to take up a new position at the Townsville City Council in Queensland, and will lead the directorate responsible for planning, building, development, compliance, health, rangers, community, recreation and youth services.

“I am excited to be joining the City of Busselton and working with the community to help shape the sustainable growth of the city,” Mr Barbour said.

“It is such a privilege to be able to continue my career in this amazing region.”

City chief executive officer Tony Nottle congratulated Mr Barbour on his appointment, and said he was “an outstanding candidate” and he looked forward to him joining the executive team in 2024.

“Gary’s knowledge of the South West and experience in both local government and the private sector will be extremely beneficial to the City of Busselton, the community and our ratepayers,” he said.

Mr Barbour will join the City of Busselton on January 29.