General Manager, Michael Whittaker, will be leaving the City of Ryde in October 2009 to pursue new challenges.
Michael joined the City of Ryde in October 2004 from South Sydney City Council where he was also General Manager.
The Mayor, Councillor Vic Tagg, commented that Michael has made a positive difference in the City of Ryde with his hard work and many achievements.
“Michael has contributed significantly to the development of our City and community over the last five years.
“When Michael joined us five years ago the Council had an operational deficit and many unfinished projects.
“Now we have a 5 Star Financial Management Rating (the highest available) and we have the lowest residential rates for comparable Councils in NSW.”
Some of the outcomes delivered by Mr. Whittaker during his time at the City of Ryde have included:
- Building new libraries at West Ryde and Top Ryde (under construction);
- Building a new State Emergency Services Headquarters and the Shepherds Bay Community Centre;
- Introducing a new Waste Collection Service increasing the amount of waste recycled in the City from 18% to 54%;
- Overseeing the $1 billion redevelopment of the Top Ryde Shopping Precinct which will deliver $105 million of assets to the Council;
- Delivering $150 million of Capital Works, including new footpaths, cycleways, roads and stormwater drains for the City;
- Refurbishing the historic Brush Farm House;
- Developing Local Environment Plans for the whole City and the Town Centres of Macquarie Park, Ryde and Gladesville;
- Building the Ryde Parramatta River Walk;
- Redeveloping numerous parks as part of the Parks on Track Strategy, including Ryde Park, Ryde Riverside Reserve, Eastwood Oval, Trim Place and Blenheim Park;
- Constructing Town Centre improvements at Ryde, West Ryde, Eastwood, Putney, Five Ways, Cox’s Road, Mid-Way and Macquarie Park;
- Upgrading and refurbishing many of our community halls, sporting grounds and public toilets as part of our Community Facility Strategy.
Mr. Whittaker said he was grateful to Council for the opportunities he has had over the last five years and that Council had the confidence to offer him a further five year contract.
“I have enjoyed working for the City of Ryde as it is a dynamic community where wonderful people live. However, it is time for me to pursue new challenges.”
Mr. Whittaker thanked the residents and businesses in the City for their support and paid special tribute to all the Councillors and Staff he has worked with.
The Mayor wished Mr. Whittaker all the best in his new ventures.
“Michael has been a great asset to the City of Ryde and we will miss his expertise.”
Media contact: Lee Kirkland, City of Ryde, T 9952 8083
