Member for Mount Isa Betty Kiernan said: "Cr Woodhouse has been heavily involved in regional development in the North-West and he brings to the position an acute knowledge of the economic development and social issues of the region."

"He has been chair of the Board of Directors of Southern Gulf Catchments for the past two years as well as eight years as chair of McKinlay Shire."

She said Cr Woodhouse has had direct involvement in the statutory planning for a large part of the region.

Mrs Kiernan said the 12 RDA Committees around the state played an important role advising government on the issues and future developments of regions around the state.

"The massive growth in the resources sector has created enormous opportunities and challenges for regional areas which the RDAs can influence," she said.

Mike Westerman, general manager, Mining Operations for Xstrata Copper at Mt Isa, is one of four new members been appointed to the RDA Townsville and North West Queensland committee.

He is chair of the local advisory committee for the town of Paraburdoo and is a facilitator for the Men's Domestic Violence task force, and has a special interest in shaping the regional development priorities of the North West.

The other three newcomers are:

Jenny Pryor, CEO and principal facilitator of the Bindal Sharks United Training, Employment, Sport and Recreation Aboriginal Corporation since 2002.

David Kippin, extensive experience in senior positions in the banking sector with National Australia Bank and Board member of Townsville Enterprise Ltd.

Dr Scott Crawford, CEO of North Queensland Dry Tropics since 2010; and

Mrs Kiernan said two existing committee members have been reappointed:

David Glasson, self-employed business owner, past President of the Mt Isa Chamber of Commerce and Board member of the Mt Isa to Townsville Economic Development Zone.

Greg Jones, self-employed electrical, refrigeration and air-conditioning contractor and councillor of the Flinders Shire Council for 17 years and former president of the Hughenden Chamber of Commerce.