New manager Stephen Wishart talks to Mayor Robyn Holmes about his plans for the Cooktown Events Centre after Cook Shire Council resumed control of the building earlier this year. Photo: Supplied.
Stephen Wishart will take the reins as the new manager of the Cooktown Events Centre following a council decision in October to resume control of the community facility.
Mr Wishart will bring extensive experience in community engagement and facility management to the role after previously holding leadership positions in Belgravia Leisure and Next Gen Health Clubs, where he worked closely with communities to deliver exceptional recreational and event experiences.
With a reputation for fostering positive relationships across community, sporting and event sectors, Cook Shire Council said Mr Wishart’s emphasis on collaboration and partnership development would ensure the centre continued to thrive as a hub for the Cooktown community.
After being announced as the new manager, Mr Wishart wasted no time in shining the spotlight on what his initial priorities would be for the centre.
“I’m excited to join the Cooktown Events Centre at such a pivotal time,” he said.
“My immediate focus is on setting up robust systems and processes to ensure we deliver excellent customer service, particularly as we gear up for launch.
“In the New Year, I look forward to focusing on enhancing the programming and delivering activities and services that truly resonate with the community and meet their needs.”
Mr Wishart’s appointment coincides with the facility reopening under council management on 20 December, and the launch of the centre’s Merry Fit-mas! gym membership campaign.
Mayor Robyn Holmes welcomed Mr Wishart to the team and said his appointment was significant for the community.
“Stephen’s wealth of experience and commitment to community make him an outstanding choice to lead the Cooktown Events Centre moving forward,” she said.
“His leadership will help us strengthen our connection with residents and visitors to ensure the centre provides exceptional opportunities for sports, recreation and events.”
Current PCYC Cooktown gym memberships will cease at midnight on 17 December, with the centre set to close on 18-19 December for systems upgrades.
