Medal bid could ‘bring governments together’

Kim Waters
GEELONG’S bid for a medal honouring long-serving councillors could “strengthen the relationships” between all levels of Australian government, according to Victoria’s peak municipal body.
Municipal Association of Victoria’s management committee has resolved to determine a “common understanding and position” on the proposed medal with state and national local government associations.
The committee’s resolution said MAV would then write to Federal Government to “promulgate” the long-service award.
“This could potentially strengthen the relationships between local, state and commonwealth governments as all tiers of government will be recognising the important contribution made by long serving councillors to their communities,” the resolution said.
The Independent revealed in September that Geelong’s council had contacted the MAV suggesting the medal for councillors.
The medal push drew criticism from former South Barwon MP Michael Crutchfield, who labelled it “outrageous and self-serving”.