Shirebiz Xmas Drinks: Mayor’s Informal Talk
Samantha Britton [Chair] Darian Brooker Clr Meredith Laverty, Samantha Britton, Darian Brooker,
[Dep Chair] Clr Jack Boyd [Mayor] Clr Joanne Nicholls, Clr Jack Boyd
Shire Council Priorities for 2025
On Thursday, 5th December, Shire Mayor Councillor Jack Boyd addressed attendees at the
Shirebiz Christmas Drinks event, held at the Woolooware Golf Club. During his informal
remarks, the Mayor outlined several key priorities for the Shire Council in 2025, emphasising
the importance of business engagement, strategic planning, housing, and infrastructure
development. the event was attended by ShireBiz members, local business owners and
Councillors Meredith Laverty and Joanne Nicholls.
Business Engagement
The Mayor announced a shift in the Council’s approach to business input and feedback.
Advising that newly established Reference Groups will replace the previous Business and
Industry Sub-Committee. These groups will serve as a listening platform and feedback mechanism, enabling greater
collaboration and input into Council decision-making processes.
Strategic Planning Challenges
Acknowledging the barriers to effective strategic planning, Mayor Boyd highlighted the
pressing need for the Council to develop and implement a comprehensive housing strategy.
The strategy will address housing changes across the Shire and will be underpinned by the
creation of precinct plans to guide future development and zoning decisions.
Infrastructure Planning
He noted that to support the housing strategy, the Council has identified key areas requiring
focused infrastructure planning and investment:
• Caringbah: Infrastructure improvements are needed to accommodate growth and
address ageing buildings.
• Kirrawee-Sutherland: The area will be a focal point for future infrastructure
upgrades.
• Miranda: Continued development and support are priorities.
• ANSTO: The Council will collaborate on establishing the Business Park in this area.
Although the precinct plans will not be industry-specific, progress has already been made in
developing the Miranda-Caringbah Health Precinct.
Flood Strategy Review
In addition to housing and infrastructure, the Council is in the process of revising its Flood
Strategy. This review aims to address current and emerging flood risks and ensure the
resilience of the Shire’s communities and infrastructure.