A time to reflect and reasses

25/06/2020

At the end of this financial year Dr David Deutscher will step down as Chair of Committee for Ballarat.

It’s a decision that has not been made lightly. In announcing his intention to step down David said “The last few months have been challenging for all of us as we continue to learn lessons in real-time about what it means to be resilient in the COVID-19 era. This time has also provided pause for reflection on my own priorities at my stage of life, and has led me to the decision to step down as Chair – for personal, family, and health reasons”

Mr Rod Walton, who will assume the role of interim Chair of the Board as of 1 July 2020 said,
“Whilst as a Board we absolutely respect and support David’s decision to rightly prioritise his and his families wellbeing, we are sad to see him step down. David has been a compassionate leader heavily invested in and passionate about the work of our members and the work of Committee”.

David has encouraged ‘thought leadership’ to strive to make Ballarat and region the best it can be. “Having experienced the benefits of living in such a strong regional community, it is clear that these benefits are not points in time, but require constant vigilance and investment” he said.

This sense of stepping up to shape the future and give back to this great City is a common theme among Committee for Ballarat members and is something that has really resonated with David.

David reflected, “The choices we make today impact what kind of Ballarat we will live in tomorrow. To that end, I continue to believe Committee for Ballarat will be a positive force in establishing and driving priorities for our region.”

Rod said, “The process to identify a new Chair has commenced. On behalf of the Board, members and staff we commend and thank David for his energy, passion and tireless work, we look forward to his ongoing advocacy of our work in a less formal capacity.”

Committee will shortly release its Action Plan for Beyond 2020. The plan centres around its ambition to inspire business, government and the community to bring to life a new energy future, one that will transform local economies, create jobs and promote innovation.