BALRANALD Shire Council has appointed a new general manager, with experienced local government official Craig Bennett taking the reins on a five-year contract.
Mr Bennett has spent 28 years in local government with postings across four states.
The task of rebuilding the shire's community image has driven Mr Bennett to take on the role.
"The challenge appealed to me – it's not a secret – we've been through a few GMs over the years," he said.
"I saw an opportunity to help rebuild the council and relationships with the community and staff."
A big focus of the early part of his tenure will be on creating a sense of continuity, with the high turnover of senior officials causing significant problems amongst staff.
"A key issue for me is our staff," he said.
"There's burnout and potentially mental health issues I'll need to deal with, and one of the first things I'll do is a culture audit to find out how our staff is going through an independent person."
His experience in regional New South Wales councils will be crucial in staying on top of the issues that affect Balranald Shire.
"I worked in a commercial and business improvement role in Muswellbrook, which is something I'll use to the fore here because we're looking at mining and renewable energy," he said.
"Being a GM already, I've been through the highs and lows – when you've been through that, you steel yourself a bit."
It's no secret that towns such as Euston and other small communities in the shire have, in the past, felt left out.
Ensuring these communities feel included in decision-making is crucial, Mr Bennett said.
"I've already signed up to the Euston Club, and I'll be spending a lot of time there to make sure they feel the love," he said.
"We're already building relationships with these communities, which is half the battle, and as GM, it's upon me to make sure we're all rowing in the same direction."
Another big challenge Mr Bennett will face is creating solid relationships between the council and the big players in the area.
"One of the challenges is going to be building relationships with the councillors, and I'm already on the front foot doing that," he said.
"The key role of a GM is stakeholder engagement – whether that's with councillors, staff, community, businesses or mining companies – you need to put your hand out there."
Mr Bennett, an accountant by training, moved into his new home in Balranald a fortnight ago.
"I've found it very friendly – my wife and I have walked up the street meeting the butcher, services club, service station, and everyone is very welcoming."
