Colac Otway Shire Council has appointed Frank Castles to a new project manager role to deliver three major coastal infrastructure projects, which will be funded under the Geelong City Deal initiative.
Council Chief Executive Peter Brown congratulated Mr Castles on his appointment to key role, working with the Apollo Bay, Skenes Creek and Kennett River communities to achieve the significant infrastructure improvements for the three coastal towns.
The projects, valued at a total of $20 million, include the redevelopment of the Apollo Bay Harbour precinct, the development of a pathway joining the path from Skenes Creek to Wild Dog Road joining the path to Apollo Bay for pedestrians and cyclists between Skenes Creek and Apollo Bay (Great Ocean Walk) and a tourism parking and toilet infrastructure upgrade at Kennett River.
Mr Castles has been Council’s Service and Operations Manager for the past two years, overseeing a range of projects including management of the Port of Apollo Bay, transformation of Lake Colac’s foreshore, and initiating new long-term methodology to road maintenance and asset management.
Prior to his role as Services and Operations Manager, Mr Castles was project manager for Colac’s CBD upgrade.
“Mr Castles has a great knowledge and strong understanding of the communities he will be working alongside, and that is extremely important in achieving the best outcome for residents, businesses and all the key stakeholders involved in these projects.
“His experience in delivering major infrastructure projects and knowledge of the relevant industries will also be valuable.
“Mr Castles starts his new role staring the week after Easter and he will be based in Apollo Bay at Council’s Nelson Street office.
“Council is confident the City Deal program will be formalised soon and while agreement has been reached, we will continue to advocate to the Federal Government to sign the deal.
“We know how important these projects – supported by three levels of government – are to our community now and for their future growth.
“Colac Otway Shire has started strategic planning for the projects and we know that when COVID-19 restrictions are eventually lifted, our coastal communities that rely heavily on tourism will benefit from knowing these major infrastructure projects being underway.
“We know addressing tourism traffic congestion and building permanent toilet facilities in Kennett River are essential for the town’s long-term appeal and amenity; and the path from Skenes Creek will improve safety and benefit locals and visitors.
“The harbour redevelopment will transform the harbour precinct and encourage visitors to stay longer which will provide a valuable boost to the tourism industry and local economy, particularly as it rebuilds after the pandemic.
“Council will provide regular updates on the projects as they progress and Mr Castles will be in close contact with key community groups and stakeholders throughout the planning and development phases.”
