Admittedly, it will be disappointing to lose Mr Lamont, who has been given a broader role within the NSW Business Chamber.

His new role will be to represent  the Chamber, both NSW and the Illawarra, at a Federal Government level in Canberra.

On many levels our loss will be our gain.

The change will put someone with a clear understanding of the infrastructure needs and shortfalls of the Illawarra right in the heart of the best place to fix it.

Mr Lamont is well across the issues that face this region and what we need to do to prosper.

Especially, what needs to be done from our representatives in Canberra to allow that to happen.

His history, having worked for a federal minister as well as other roles within government, gives him a strong background on the inner workings of the nation's capital.

“To be honest I don’t see it as leaving,” Mr Lamont told the Illawarra Mercury’s Greg Ellis on Thursday.

“On a lot of the big projects, particularly with Illawarra First, there is no point spending any more time on convincing people who are already convinced of the need to invest in this region.

“We need to take the argument to both Macquarie Street and Canberra.”

This region has been let down for decades by many forms of government.

It has been underserviced and governments, federal included, have under-delivered.

This region urgently needs better trail services.

A rail solution to the age old problems facing the Illawarra are not even seemingly on the radar.

Mr Lamont knows full well this needs urgent prioritisation.

He is well versed on the opportunity this region offers as a solution to some of this state’s issues and understands what that can entail. Port Kembla being a perfect example.

Our Port offers a viable option and alternative which could ease many of the maritime migraines facing some of our northern neighbours.

The electoral windows are opening and it is an ideal opportunity for this region to have its voice heard.

We wish Mr Lamont all the very best in his new role.