Kelly Reaston, General Manager for Planning and Environment, tendered her resignation on Friday last week and will remain with Council until the end of January 2021.
Ms Reaston joined Council in October 2010 as a Branch Manager within the Planning and Environment department and was elevated to her current role in 2013.
Cairns Mayor Bob Manning acknowledged the significant role Ms Reaston has played in fashioning Council’s development policies and helping to maintain the city’s top liveable status.
“Kelly has a real passion for this city, which is not limited to planning and development, but also includes an enthusiasm for getting young people involved in guiding the future growth of Cairns,” Cr Manning said.
“She has played a significant role in engaging young people and promoting sustainable living, particularly through EcoFiesta and of course last year’s inaugural Cairns Youth Climate Summit.”
Ms Reaston has also overseen the adoption of a new Planning Scheme, championed proactive animal management practices and was involved with some of the biggest events to have been staged in the city.
Following one of the largest consultation exercises undertaken by Council, CairnsPlan 2016 was adopted in early 2016.
“This new Planning Scheme set a clear direction for the region’s development, supported sustainable growth and tropical urbanism principles, and maintained the characteristics that make Cairns a liveable city,” Cr Manning said.
“Kelly has also been a passionate advocate for proactive animal management practices through community education and awareness programs, and she also championed the need for a new animal pound to replace the ageing facility at McCoombe Street.
“When you think of some of the great events this city has hosted – from Elton John’s 2017 performance at Cazaly’s to the Queen’s Baton Relay as part of the 2018 Commonwealth Games, the annual TARGA rally and Ironman, as well as recent national sporting events like the AFL and netball, Kelly played a major role in securing these events and oversaw the logistics required.
“She has also been critical in our city’s COVID response, working across Council and the community to ensure compliance with State and Federal government restrictions.
“I would like to thank Kelly for her contribution to Council, and wish her and her family all the best in the future.”