Mayors recycled for coast, plains

Former mayors have taken the reins again at Surf Coast and Golden Plains shires.
Policeman Brian McKiterick was elected unopposed for his second stint as mayor despite colleague Rose Hodge expressing interesting in securing the top job for a fourth time in 12 years on the council.
Both were re-elected as councillors at state-wide municipal elections last month.
Cr McKiterick, entering his third term on council, nominated pending residential development of Spring Creek Valley and “the instability” of the Great Ocean Road as challenges for the new council.
Golden Plains councillors voted Des Phelan as their mayor, which he called “a real honour”.
“I will remain a strong advocate for supporting young families and providing opportunities for those at risk of isolation to remain connected,” he said.
“As mayor I am committed to supporting both the council and the organisation to make good decisions for the benefit of our community.”