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Business View Australia - March-April 2016 29
Newman is also conscious of the
economic challenges of building up
an economically vibrant CBD.
“Mandurah used to be a fishing
village and the CBD was built around
it. I suppose we’re going to have
to keep a focus on employment
outcomes in the CBD. Professional
offices can change the type of
employment[they provide]. We’re
focused on construction and retail
and we need to diversify out. The
other area we’re working on is
finding niche programs in terms
of entrepreneur programs and the
Artpreneur programs that have really
caught on. Growth is uncapped,” he
says.
Solar Panels
An environmental focus has been
a strong part of the Council’s long-
term vision. It has worked to set a
carbon emissions reduction target
and has found leading by example is
an effective way to make a change.
They took a scientific approach to it,
installing Photovoltaic (PV) Panels
on a number of Council buildings,
including the Mandurah Bowling and
Recreation Centre, the Mandurah
Performing Arts Centre and the City’s
administration building. In doing so,
they made sure the panels were well
concealed.
Newman says the benefits of
renewable energy are noticeable,