AL Grundy Resigns From Council

In a shock announcement, Councillor Al Grundy has resigned from his position with Whitsunday Regional Council and will be taking up the role of Chief Executive Officer for Mackay Isaac Tourism next month.

The news comes less than a month after his bid for Mayor was unsuccessful following a tight campaign race which saw Julie Hall named new Whitsundays Mayor.

There is much speculation about his decision to leave Council mid-term, having only served two and a half years of the current four-year term.

This will only be the second time in recent history that a Councillor has resigned before the end of the allocated term.

His decision means that the Whitsundays is once again plunged into election mode, the third time residents have gone to the polls this year.

It will also mean rate payers will foot the bill for another election, estimated to cost around $200,000.

Mayor Julie Hall said, on behalf of Council, that she thanks Cr Grundy for his time serving his division and for his contribution during his time as Councillor.

“Cr Grundy is a very active member in the community and has represented Council on a range of committees, with the environment, waste management and tourism at the centre of his approach,” she said.

“We wish him well for his future outside of Council.”

Chief Executive Officer Rod Ferguson said that Council will work closely with the Electoral Commission of Queensland to progress a by-election for Division 2 to fill the vacancy.

Cr Grundy’s last day will be on Friday, October 14 and he will commence his role at Mackay Isaac Tourism on Monday, October 17.

With more than 26 years of tourism experience as a tourism operator and owner, which includes being the Chair for Tourism Whitsundays, Cr Grundy brings a wealth of experience to his new position.

Mackay Isaac Tourism Chair Councillor Justin Englert said he is confident the new appointment will bring tremendous strengths to not only the organisation but also the region.

“With new ideas, a fresh approach and innovative concepts, backed by a strong tourism marketing and business background, the organisation is in good hands,” he said.

“The board of directors at Mackay Isaac Tourism is excited about this new appointment and with Al’s significant background in the tourism industry, I am sure his ability to identify new opportunities will drive growth for our Mackay Isaac Region.”

Having already been equipped with the right skillset and his strong passion for the tourism industry, Cr Grundy says he is raring to go and already has a clear direction on how he will steer the organisation and region to greater heights.

“I am excited to be given this responsibility of leading the region and the team at Mackay Isaac Tourism,” he said.

“I hope my years of experience will be an asset and I look forward to meeting the industry and working closely with them to shine a spotlight on the best of what the Mackay Isaac region has to offer to the world!”

Image: Al Grundy will become the CEO of Mackay Isaac Tourism

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