Our Team
Sonia Tomkinson - Economic Growth and Planning
Sonia Tomkinson brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to enhancing the prosperity and livability of Central Queensland. With a career spanning over 15 years in State and Local government, Sonia has been instrumental in driving economic development and strategic planning initiatives.
As Manager of Economy and Places, Sonia has led a dedicated team in facilitating economic growth through various projects, including managing significant land assets like The Gateway Business and Industry Park and The Station. Her efforts have been pivotal in collaborating with regional partners, supporting local businesses, and enhancing the region’s brand attractiveness.
Sonia holds a Masters in Urban and Regional Planning from Curtin University and a Bachelor of Business with a Finance and Economic major from Central Queensland University.
Arna Hart - Economic Development Officer
Arna is a passionate Economic Development Officer at Livingstone Shire Council, committed to fostering business growth and enhancing community prosperity. Her role involves building strong relationships within the community, supporting local businesses, and driving initiatives that allow them to thrive.
Arna is inspired by creativity and uses this to implement unique placemaking initiatives, where she works to revitalise public spaces to reflect the unique character of the region. She is dedicated to sustainable development and plays a pivotal role in facilitating industry engagement and the delivery of strategic economic actions. Arna collaborates with local businesses and stakeholders to promote business retention, expansion, innovation, and job creation, with the goal to nurture a vibrant and sustainable future for the Livingstone Shire.
Arna holds a Bachelor of Social Science from the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Suzette Garden - Economic Development Officer
Suzette has worked for Livingstone Shire Council for over 20 years, playing a key role in fostering sustainable economic growth and enhancing the livability of our community. Specifically, her role involves collaborating with local businesses, government agencies, and community organisations to identify opportunities for investment, development, workforce stability and the potential of new and emergency industries. Her priority focus is on initiatives that support small businesses, entrepreneurs and projects that promote tourism, with her current focus being Agritourism.
Suzette holds a Diploma of Business Management, Diploma of Local Government, Diploma of Events Management (International) and a Certificate IV in Business Administration.
Tahlia Austin - Small Business Development Officer
Tahlia brings over three years of experience in local government, with a strong focus on business development and stakeholder engagement. In her current role with Livingstone Shire Council, she supports the growth and resilience of local businesses by delivering tailored business development support, facilitating connections with government and industry, and driving collaborative initiatives that strengthen the regional economy.
She plays a key role in leading Council's commitment to the Small Business Friendly Program, focusing on improving small business capability, managing targeted marketing efforts, developing business engagement activities and advocating for local business.
Tahlia is currently completing her Bachelor of Business with a Finance and Economic major.