TEN4TEN 2023 STUDENTS VISIT ORANGE CITY COUNCIL WITH NEWLY APPOINTED RDA DIRECTOR

TEN4TEN 2023 students visited Orange City Council on Monday to learn all about how council operates and meet key decision makers for our city.

In attendance were seven TEN4TEN 2023 students, three mentors and six Orange City Council staff including Mayor Jason Hamling, Deputy Mayor Gerald Power, CEO David Waddell, Director Community Recreation and Cultural Services Scott Maunder, Director Development Services Mark Hodges and Director Corporate and Commercial Services Rachelle Robb. Facilitating the afternoon were Regional Development Australia Central West’s Rachel Chippendale, Lynda Smart and new Director Steven Bowman.

RDA Central West took the opportunity to officially welcome Mr. Bowman and announce his appointment on what was his first day at the helm. Mr. Bowman said he was delighted to see the opportunities the TEN4TEN program is offering participating Year 11 students.

“It was incredible to witness the conversation between TEN4TEN students, mentors, and senior council representatives today. Students thoroughly enjoyed gaining an understanding of council operations and hearing life advice from such admirable community members,” said Mr. Bowman.

“I feel privileged to have been able to connect with both TEN4TEN students and the Orange community’s key decision makers on my first day.”

Mr. Bowman is excited about his new role at RDA Central West, having been a board member for the not-for-profit organisation for two years.

“I have a great understanding of how this space operates and bring with me a breadth of economic development experience”, said Mr Bowman.

Prior to joining RDA Central West, Mr. Bowman was the Business Engagement Lead for Southeast and Central NSW at nbn Co.

“It feels very natural to step into this role, and I am excited to continue championing for our region’s economic growth through new and existing projects and initiatives.”

Prior to his role at nbn Co, Mr. Bowman was Economic Development Manager for Bathurst Regional Council for eight years. He was also a Co-Founder of Bathurst’s Upstairs Startup Hub and is a member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

RDA Central West Chair Ruth Fagan said Mr. Bowman’s appointment was a fantastic step forward for the organisation.

“I am delighted to officially welcome Steve as our new director. He has demonstrated a strong talent for economic development strategy in his past roles, and throughout his membership of our board,” said Ms. Fagan.

“He operates with utmost professionalism, and I can say with confidence – watch this space.”

To find out more about RDA Central West visit www.rdacentralwest.org.au and follow along on social media.