Mr Pollock will lead a new consultative body aimed to develop State services in rural areas.

He said it was a pleasant surprise and he felt privileged to be appointed chairman.

Mr Pollock was nominated by the council and is enthusiastic about the big job ahead of him.

The board is made up of a chairman, deputy chairman and 12 board members.

Whyalla board members include Paul Johnston, Neil Otway, Mark Parry, Annette Kirby, Jack Velthuizen and Sidney Wilson.

Mrs Kirby said the RDA will have a strategic approach for a sustainable future.

Mr Pollock said the next step for himself and the other board members is to attend an induction training informing the board of their roles and responsibilities.

The RDA is a local, State and Federal Government initiative and plans to enhance the growth and development of regional Australia.

It aims to create job opportunities, attract investment and support the quality of rural life.

The board will communicate with various levels of government and provide feedback on community issues.

Federal Parliamentary infrastructure and regional development secretary Maxine McKew said it would give a local voice for rural communities.

"For the first time, local leaders will give formal input to all governments in South Australia on the issues that matter to their region," Ms McKew said.

South Australian regional development minister Paul Caica said the quality and diversity of RDA board members augurs well for the renewal of South Australia's regions.

"The new RDA boards are made up of local people with the leadership and commitment to work with government to develop their communities," he said.

"We have the people in place who can deliver on the goals we have set them, in working with all levels of government on the best way to build jobs and investment in their communities."