Eurobodalla Council’s general manager Dr Catherine Dale has announced she will not seek re-appointment when her contract concludes on 30 September 2022.
Dr Dale joined Eurobodalla Shire Council in April 2013. Her position has, over the past nine years offered little of the fanfare and public presence of her predecessors in Paul Anderson and Jim Levy. Some call her a quiet achiever while many in the community simply responded with a "doctor who?" when reference was made of the shire's general manager.
Few in the community would recognise Dr Dale if she walked by, nor would they recognise the role she played in steering the Council over recent years, during a period that will long be remembered as one of the most controversial and unfortunate in Council's political history.
Dr Dale has advised that she has decided to "pursue lecturing opportunities in the university sector and other consultancy roles".
Councillors will meet shortly to discuss recruitment options, with Mayor Mathew Hatcher expressing gratitude for Dr Dale’s nine-year tenure in the general manager’s role.
“I appreciate Catherine’s years of exemplary service to Council and the community, in particular getting us through the bushfires, floods and Covid-19.
“While recruitment for a new general manager gets underway, our work together for the benefit of the shire’s residents and ratepayers will continue,” he said.
In announcing her decision to Council staff on Tuesday, Dr Dale acknowledged their support and the outstanding work they do daily for the community.
“Collectively, the Councillors and the organisation have achieved many fantastic outcomes for the Eurobodalla community. The delivery of major infrastructure, recreation and arts projects, and the success of numerous state and federal government grants for developments like the southern dam and Bay Pavilions are standouts,” she said.
“I also believe that as a Council we provided outstanding leadership and support for our community during the Black Summer fires, floods and the Covid-19 pandemic. This support continues during the recovery phase, assisting many residents overcome numerous challenges, all the while advocating to government to strengthen the resilience of our people and our infrastructure.”
Dr Dale also acknowledged and thanked all the Councillors who provided support during her term as general manager.
“Putting your hand up to be an elected representative is a challenging and often thankless role and I have nothing but respect for people who are willing to do this for their community. I wish the current Councillors all the best in their future endeavours.”
