My farewell to those I left behind: #CoGc #CityofGoldCoast #Council

Greetings to you City of Gold Coast Colleagues

May I take this opportunity to provide you with a farewell, in written form. An exit interview will not be considered appropriate nor be a positive step.

I have made the decision to retire from Council, no surprise but it’s now official. My departure will take effect at the end of business 13 December 2021, my 16th year anniversary.

Despite normally having lots to say, I don’t.

At this stage I can relate to senior gentlemen in the past who on leaving Council almost demanded that no fuss be created, or attention applied. I share this wish.

I won’t be touring about, visiting empty offices to leave a mark, or a biscuit. This email will suffice.

I have worked with some truly marvellous people in my 16 years at Council. This overly complicated work place I leave you in has provided a fascinating range of experience.

It has been, many things at times, incredible, a laugh, downright ridiculous and unbelievably stressful. I have enjoyed and endured observing humanity, local government’s glacial pace, politics, and the mysterious decision-making process The imbalanced way those things are applied at Council is worthy of further study. Sadly, it’s time for me to leave this study and scrutiny to others. I will remain amazed from outside the Council bubble.

As we are all aware, things seem to be looking up with a new focus being applied to repairing the recent decay. I sincerely hope it succeeds and I believe those driving the changes are working to ensure it does.

I must have filled in about 9,000 farewell cards and may have been involved in some 5,000 whip rounds for those who have left. I ask that you all refrain from such activities and let memories be the currency of my time at Council.

If you see me about the Gold Coast, smile, chat or ignore and I’ll appreciate whatever you choose. I have developed a hermit / recluse lifestyle during my LSL and seek to perfect this choice in retirement.

If you’re so inclined, you can keep up to date with my strange stories at alancrawford.com.au and #acrawfordsaid on socials.

Thank you for your friendship and advice and with all sincerity, I wish you all the very best.

Cheers Alan

Note. The lack of response was deafening!