Partnership agreement marks new era with City of Geraldton

12/5/05
The State Government and the City of Geraldton today signed a new partnership agreement to ensure the two spheres of government work co-operatively at a strategic level to deliver sustainable outcomes for the city.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by Premier Geoff Gallop and Geraldton mayor Vicki Petersen.
"Over the last four years Geraldton has undergone a transformation," Dr Gallop said.
"There is renewed confidence in the community and business sector about the city and region's future - particularly its economic outlook, which is now extremely positive.
"The growth has been driven by a number of major infrastructure projects which are either under way, completed, or on the horizon.
"The MOU will ensure the timely and smooth progress of these vital projects so that the city's growth is sustained - now and in the future."
The Premier said the MOU fitted in with the objectives of the State Government's Sustainability Strategy, as well as being part of the City of Geraldton's five-year strategic plan.
He said 2005 would be a landmark year for the city, with stage one of the Southern Transport Corridor and the new Geraldton Health Campus both scheduled for completion later this year.
Work was under way on the Geraldton Foreshore Redevelopment, a project that would transform the city's foreshore into a world-class beachfront, with community and tourist facilities.
Construction on the new Separation Point Marine Precinct - to house the Batavia Coast Marine Centre, an education, training and research facility and the Abrolhos Islands Research Institute - had begun.
Planning was expected to start soon on the new juvenile rehabilitation centre and Geraldton Secondary College would be redeveloped during the next four years. The new $15million facility would enable upper school students to work directly with the Central West College of TAFE.
"The momentum for further growth in Geraldton exists and both the Government and City of Geraldton are focussed on capitalising on this," Dr Gallop said.
The Premier said the MOU would set out communication mechanisms that fostered co-operation and a sound understanding of local issues by Government agencies and the city.
A MOU advisory committee - made up of representatives from the city and Government agencies and chaired by Geraldton MLA Shane Hill - would also be set up.
The first project to be progressed under the new MOU would be the Geraldton Foreshore Redevelopment and CBD revitalisation.
Premier's office: 9222 9475