TWO years since the position was established, a new NSW Cross Border Commissioner has been appointed to take up the mantle.
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James McTavish will take the reins from inaugural commissioner Steve Toms.
The NSW Government created the role in 2012 to provide support for businesses, organisations and residents in border communities.
Tenterfield Shire mayor Peter Petty said he had mixed feelings about the appointment.
“I was only speaking to Steve (Toms) last Friday,” Cr Petty said.
“I’m disappointed and surprised but council will be happy to work with the new man,” he said.
Mr McTavish said he was excited to be taking on his new role and was committed to making a positive difference for people living in cross-border communities.
“I appreciate the opportunity to be involved in finding solutions that make life better and business easier for border communities.
“I will make sure towns and regions located on our State's four borders are given a clear and effective voice," he said.
In his time in the role Mr Toms travelled extensively to border communities, meeting with businesses and community members to investigate issues and advance a business plan.
Cr Petty said the outgoing commissioner was integral to Tenterfield developing an even closer bond with Southern Downs Regional Council.
“He helped push the Memorandum of Understanding with Southern Downs – that has been going good,” the mayor said.
“I think he’s done an outstanding job – while there he came up with 150 issues and with ten points to each.
“We’ll now have to get him (McTavish) to town and sit down and get him up to date with things – he’ll have to acquaint himself with the area.
“One thing I’ll be going into battle for is getting things sorted with the postcode in Jennings,” Cr Petty said.
Mr McTavish is a decorated former military officer and has had a strong involvement in the State Emergency Service.
He was recognised in the 2013 Australia Day Honours list for his SES work in the Murrumbidgee region.
Acting Minister for Trade and Investment and Regional Infrastructure and Services Kevin Humphries welcomed the appointment.
“There are issues facing people living in NSW border towns that most of us take for granted,” the Minister said.
“James brings a wealth of experience dealing with incredibly challenging situations,” he said.
