Now it's time for the first award of the evening... the Rural/Remote Manager of the Year, sponsored by the Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries.
Introduced in 2003, Rural/Remote Manager of the Year is for managers who live and work at least 75 kilometres outside their nearest AIM network or provincial city.
The Institute defines Rural/Remote Managers as those who manage extensive properties, lead within the primary industries sector or operate a leading business remotely.
Presenting the Award this evening is Tony Rayner, Acting Assistant Director General - Regional Delivery, Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries.
The 2007 State Finalists for the Rural/Remote Manager of the Year are:
Lisa Cooper
Manager, Tableland Community Link Association Inc
representing Cairns
As the Manager of Tableland Community Link Association Inc, Lisa has been proactive in shifting the mindset of working within the organization - from one of fear and oppression, to motivation and openness. Inspired by the innovation and individuality shown by how rural communities approach local issues, Lisa adapts this way of thinking to her management in the workplace. The judges believe Lisa is an inspirational leader and is developing innovative ways to deal with issues in what is a traditionally challenging sector.
Jill Loane
Programme Coordinator, Community Resource Centre, Banana Shire Council
representing Gladstone
Throughout her time as Program Coordinator at Biloela Community Resource Centre, Jill has developed unique services, systems, polices and procedures that are designed to continue beyond her time at the Centre. As team leader, Jill takes pride in having an intimate knowledge of all areas of the CRC, enabling her to be involved in all staff and work decisions, and encouraging and motivating her team. She believes that the corporate values that she has embedded into the workplace serve as keys to the foundation of managers that follow her.
Debra Newbold
Factory Manager, Thai Epicurean Products t/a Spirit House
representing the Sunshine Coast
As the factory manager of Thai Epicurean Products P/L, Debra’s determination has seen her upgrade the level of skill in her staff. By forming a skilled research and development team, she has increased the flow of new business. Furthermore, her vision to redesign the plant and equipment has improved workflow and seen an increase in productivity. These changes, teamed with fostering a group focused management style have lead to Debra’s success in taking her staff from strength to strength. The judges believe that Debra shows a genuine concern for developing and empowering staff to bring out the best in them, and has great passion, enthusiasm and pride in the company.
Craig White AIMM
Senior Sergeant in Charge, Gladstone (formerly Sergeant Officer in Charge, Anakie), Queensland Police Service
representing Rockhampton
Since increasing crime detection rates in his division in Anakie by 200%, it is evident that Craig’s determination and specific focus on strategic planning have been effective. Coupled with providing direction and support, he believes that a reputation developed through consistent, ethical decision making is fundamental to managing a group of people. Craig’s commitment to successful management is one which is aimed at benefiting the safety and welfare of the wider community. The judges have chosen Craig for his ability to manage in a complex and changing environment and ensuring milestones are met in a timely manner. Craig has now been promoted to the position of Senior Sergeant in Charge – Gladstone.
Robert Ries
Campus Manager, Chinchilla, Southern Queensland Institute of TAFE
representing Toowoomba
Robert has been in management collectively for over 20 years. Since being at the Southern Queensland Institute from 1999 Robert has taken on a multifaceted role of managing all aspects of administrative and educational areas of the campus. Robert is motivated, focused and often seen as a visionary. As a person who doesn’t accept failure, Robert is outcome driven, and believes that adaptability is the key to surviving in the changing global market.
Margaret Cumes
Director of Nursing/Acting Day Respite Co-ordinator, Blue Care - Burdekin
representing Townsville
Recognising the pending shortage of appropriately qualified workers, Margaret took the initiative to develop a multidisciplinary team at Blue Care. In doing so, she increased staff stability, professionalism and commitment. As a flexible and loyal manager, Margaret sees the importance of kindness and positivity at work. She has successfully developed a family oriented workplace, and aims to make all members feel valued for their contribution to the team. She demonstrates the ability to move seamlessly between roles, willingness to take on additional duties to get the job done, commitment to consultation and change management.
And the winner is...
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