Bev Ruskey of Spring Creek Mountain Cafe has been voted in as the new president of the Killarney Area Promotions Association (KAPA).
Sonja Carr is the new vice-president and John Roberts – also the designer of the new Killarney logo – has become the new secretary with Barbara Cutmore staying on for another year as treasurer and anchor woman in the KAPA leadership team.
Retiring president Paul Stumkat said he was pleased with his three years in the role, and was looking forward to contribute to KAPA and support the new management committee.
Mr Stumkat said some of his favourite achievements included the development of the new Killarney logo on his watch, new signage at the entrance to Killarney, additional signage to and from the Cambanoora Gorge, the collection of road counter data outside Killarney, the mini-conference held in Killarney in 2016 instigated by Judy Abernethy and kick-starting the ‘Community Vision Document’ which is an ongoing work in progress.
Bev is excited about her new role, and comes with well thought-out ideas for development inspired by her own 15-year journey of growing a business on the Southern Downs.
She says her number one priority is to move main street shops out of the flood zone and shift Canning Park into the flood zone.
“Let’s work out what really works on the main street of Killarney and how we can attract new investment with flood-free shops aesthetically sensitive in design to the Killarney environment, history, and future development plans, and let’s make a plan and get it done,” Bev said.
“The Scenic Gem of the Southern Downs is ripe for further developments in preparation for a prosperous future.
“Sonja Carr and her partner Russell James are already doing a sterling job of managing the Killarney Country Market, introducing talent quests and performance to the beautiful Sunday market days at the end of each month.
“KAPA is looking forward to supporting Steve Popple in his Cultural Mapping Project which has gotten off to a fine start, and will seek further grant funding for further development.
“This project has the potential to be a pilot for similar projects across the Southern Downs.”
The Killarney Show and Rodeo Society’s push on becoming an RV-friendly destination was also discussed at the most recent KAPA meeting at which the new management committee was chosen.
Have ideas for the future of Killarney? Call Bev Ruskey on 4664 7101 or email springcreek@westnet.com.au
