SGC MAYORS UNITED IN SUPPORTING WHYALLA

Recent reports regarding the future of the Steel Works in Whyalla is sending shock waves through the Upper Spencer Gulf regional communities and its Councils where decisions taken by GFG and government responses to them are seen as critical to the future prosperity of the region.

The Mayors of Whyalla, Port Pirie and Port Augusta collaborate through the Spencer Gulf Cities group with their Councils providing support and advocacy on regional priorities to governments. A key role of these Councils is to support their communities, alongside State and Federal
governments during times of crisis.

Recently announced funding support from the State Government and utilisation of local Federal Government regional program managers and resources to conduct information sessions for displaced workers to maintain their training and find alternative work is welcomed. More support will be needed over a longer period.

Port Pirie Mayor Leon Stephens and Port Augusta Mayor Linley Shine are offering their support to Whyalla Council’s Mayor, Phil Stone, and the Whyalla community as they come to grips with the impact of decisions taken by GFG and State and Federal Government responses.

“The future viability of the steel works is felt strongly in Whyalla and surrounding towns – contractors and workers are drawn from the region. All business in Whyalla and in the region are impacted in some shape or form when workers have their jobs and futures in doubt.

Councils play a critical role in ensuring “on the ground” support is in place for the whole community to address the wide ranging social and economic impacts of decisions made by industries in our towns.

I congratulate Mayor Stone on his swift action and guiding support to his community.

It’s tough times and my Council stands ready to assist in any way possible.” said Mayor Stephens.

Port Augusta Mayor Linley Shine said “it’s time like these that communities and all spheres of government need to work together and be visible in their support to the local community.

Councils are the face of their communities and continue to be present after leaders of State and Federal Governments come into our towns making announcements on government support programs. It’s our Councils that see first hand the impacts of these government responses and our continual feedback to governments is critical and must be heard.

My Council offers its continued support to Mayor Phil Stone and his Council and community. Mayor Stone has demonstrated great leadership, advocacy and passion for his community in his statements and actions to date and this is recognised by all of us.

Mayor Leon Stephens and Mayor Linley Shine support Whyalla Mayor Phill Stone’s continuing requests for both GFG and the State Government to keep the community up to date on developments and setbacks as being paramount at this time. Mixed messages, no messages or inaccurate information will only lead to confusion and anxiety.

Whyalla Council has an awareness of their local leaders, available community resources, potential gaps or where additional funding and direction might be needed.

Port Pirie and Port Augusta Councils are committed to playing their part.

Mayor Stephens, Chair of the SGC, has called an urgent meeting of the Mayors to canvass what collaborative actions can be taken by the 3 Councils to support their communities through these tough times.

The 3 Mayors and their CEOs are members of the Upper Spencer Gulf Intergovernmental Group (USGIG), chaired by Minister Koutsantonis on behalf of the Premier. The primary objectives of this Group are to work collaboratively on strategic issues impacting on the region.

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Contact:

Mayor Leon Stephens Mob: 0417 080 961
Mayor Linley Shine Mob: 0419 423 777
Mayor Phil Stone Mob: 0491 276 764
Wendy Campana Mob: 0417 861 783