Successful nominations will have had a significant impact on revitalising communities , and will have been at the forefront of developing and delivering projects that drive innovation and change . They will have played a major role in shaping and improving the practice of economic development .
WINNER : Bruce Connolly
Bruce is an extremely well respected and admired member of the Economic Development profession both locally and internationally . He is known for his exceptional collaborative approach and wonderful communication skills , he has made an extraordinary impact working with local governments and businesses in Northern Victoria and Gippsland .
Bruce was a pioneer when he introduced the concept of the Revolving Loan scheme to Australia and has continued to be an innovator today .
Empathy and resilience are other words that depict Bruce . Bruce has worked tirelessly supporting communities through Bushfire and Flood recovery , Drought responses , the closure of Hazelwood Power Station to name a few .
EDA has relied on Bruce ’ s knowledge and expertise in the development of many of its recovery resources . Bruce has been involved in Economic Development since 1990 . He was a member of EDA ’ s predecessor , the Association of Development Executives Victoria ( ADEV ) and led the establishment of the State Practitioner Network . knowledge , wisdom , hustle , humility , innovation but first and foremost , in the game for his community ’ s benefit .
FINALIST : Mark Connolly
Mark Connolly has been instrumental in leading the Moree Plains community through multiple once-in-a-generation projects in north west NSW for over 18 years .
Under Mark ’ s leadership as Executive Manager for Regional Activation , Moree secured the single largest state government infrastructure investment in its history , setting the region on track to become an economic powerhouse of Northern NSW .
The Inland Rail project has seen more than 500 people employed in the region , and more than $ 130 million spent with businesses , generating a ‘ buzz ’ in Moree ’ s main street , with motels regularly at or above 80 % capacity and cafes busy .
Moree ’ s Special Activation Precinct status , along with $ 194 million in state government funding announced in March 2022 , will develop a thriving business hub to diversify the region ’ s economy .
Mark ’ s calm and assured leadership is guiding approximately $ 2 billion in infrastructure projects for the Moree Plains , while maintaining positive relationships with stakeholders throughout , being realistic and strategic where his small team can have the most impact in maximising benefits for the local economy and community .
FINALIST : Brett Millington Born and raised in Mildura , Brett has over 20 years ’ experience in the economic development and utilities industries . He was an inaugural Board member of Mildura Regional Development ( MRD ) in 2017 before being appointed CEO in 2019 . Prior to this , he spent several years as the Program Director for Intelligent Water Networks , the research and collaboration partnership supporting the Victorian Water corporations in their pursuit of innovation .
During the difficult period of 2020 / 21 , Brett encouraged his team to embrace the challenge and use the opportunities presented to further connect with the community and deliver against the Mildura Regional Development Strategic Plan .
New initiatives implemented during this time by Brett and the team to assist the local economy including :
• 50 Jobs in 50 Days – connecting Employers and Employees
• Fork it Local Friday – encouraging local purchasing through a great social media campaign .
• The successful ‘ Start here ’ tourism marketing campaign
During this time , Brett also held the position of Chair of the Economic Recovery Group as part of the broader Disaster Recovery actions of Mildura Rural City Council . He also assisted the Ouyen community in the feasibility work on the significant Sunraysia Mallee Port Link project .
Brett has supported the attraction of events and the enhancement of the visitor experience . He was committed to bringing to life the Crafted by Mildura – Taste Better Walk now in its 3rd year .
His relationship building skills are legendary- he comfortably connects with people regardless of their background or stature . Bruce has actively mentored many economic development practitioners throughout his career .
Bruce exemplifies all that is to be admired in an Economic Development Practitioner-
Mark is uniquely placed to bring a local understanding of the economic drivers of the Moree Plains economy . His freight and logistics focus has transformed that regional economic landscape , creating an enabling environment for innovative solutions and economic diversification and gearing the region for growth to revitalise Moree as a vibrant and dynamic regional centre .
Brett has been instrumental in the Bruce Munro Light / State project . Which encourages new visitors to stay longer in the region .
Brett is a local leader with positions in a range of advisory panels and industry clusters .
VOL 15 NO 3 2022 34 www . edaustralia . com . au