Walcha's new GM is going to find the weather a touch cooler

Barry Omundson will move to the shire with his wife to take over the role either later this month, or early in July.

His appointment follows a "rigorous" recruitment process, where he beat out 23 candidates for the much sought-after position, including three from overseas.

Mr Omundson said both he and his wife, Toni, are keen to call the shire home.

"I am extremely grateful to the mayor and councillors for choosing me as their next general manager," he said.

"Whilst our time in Fiji has been most rewarding and we have left some dear and talented staff - indeed friends - we yearn to come home and to settle in Walcha.

"We look forward in time to buying a farm where we can accommodate our dogs and eat what we grow."

Mr Omundson said he had been impressed with the "vision of the council" and the quality of service it provides to its residents.

"It is clear the council has a deeply committed staff group who not only live in the shire but value the opportunity to give excellent customer service to their fellow residents," he said.

"I want to establish a very strong partnership across all departments - and I will be visiting the works staff as a first priority.

"I want to ensure staff have the resources to do their job effectively and to support their professional goals, aspirations and growth."

Mr Omundson, who started work as a 14 year old and joined the Navy as an apprentice when he was 15, said one of his first tasks will be to get out and about and meet as many community members as possible.

"I look forward to being able to bring this diverse experience to Walcha," he said.

As well as his position with the FIJI Water Corporation Mr Omundson also has extensive experience in local government at the Central Coast Council in Tasmania as Director of Community Services; at Whitsunday Regional Council in Queensland as CEO; and at Mackay Regional Council in Queensland as CEO.

He also worked as a professional engineer at Maranoa Regional Council in Queensland as Director Infrastructure Services, and as Executive Manager Operations at Cradle Mountain Water in Tasmania.

Mr Omundson has been appointed on a five year performance-based contract and will enter into a performance agreement within three months of commencing in the role.

Mayor Eric Noakes has welcomed the appointment.

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"The appointment of Barry Omundson was a unanimous decision of the council and reflects the very rigorous process conducted in evaluating candidates and the dedication of my fellow councillors in undertaking this important task," Cr Noakes said.

"It's an exciting period for Walcha, with so many challenges and opportunities being addressed by the councillors and staff.

"In welcoming Barry and Toni I know the Walcha community will give them strong support and encouragement as they become part of this wonderful region.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank Chris Weber who has acted in the role in a most expert manner."

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