While my position here is different, some familiar faces remain, and Whyalla is certainly in a different position than where it was when I left in 2005.

This is certainly an exciting time for the town, which sits perfectly poised to take full advantage of the mining boom.

It is indeed a town on the verge of greatness.

To add to this, we have been earmarked as a regoinal health centre by the State Government, where other neighbouring cities have been shunned.

Our real estate market is bucking the national trend, with housing and other developments continually booming.

The city is being beautified, and becoming more of a tourist destination.

Whyalla is slowly shrugging off the tag of the ‘red dust’ city, and moving ahead with leaps and bounds.

As a community we need to take full advantage of what lies ahead, and get involved in the future of our city.

Everyone has their own individual interests and needs, and should let their opinions be heard.

Be active in the development of your city.

There is still much improvment to be made, and while there are a lot of positives in Whyalla, the current state of the main street is disappointing.

The council has done its bit beautifying both Patterson and Forsyth streets, and has answered the traders’ calls by making it a two-way street.

The City Plaza needs to be a huge part of our tourist attractions, with many people driving through on their way to the beach.

To see so many empty and run-down shopfronts is a turn-off.

It is time that some of the shop owners put in a bit of effort to make their buildings more aesthetically appealing, which may in turn attract tennants.

I’m not saying that every shop needs a facelift, but there is clearly work to be done.

The plaza is in constant competition with the booming westside of Whyalla, and needs to react accordingly - there is no reason why Whyalla cannot maintain two major shopping districts, especially with the future looking as bright as it is.

At the Whyalla News is looking to the future and we will strive to keep you up to date with everything that is happening.

With a bright and enthusiastic editorial team, we want to help your voice be heard - after all, we are the voice of the community!

I encourage everyone to have their say on issues, whether it be positive or negative - let us know what is happening and what concerns you and we will do our best to find out.

I’m looking forward to Whyalla’s future, and I’m excited about the possibilities and opportunities this town has to offer.

Whyalla will be greater than it already is!