by NOEL MURPHY
Former Geelong mayor John Mitchell received almost $40,000 in donations to his campaign at last year’s poll, according to figures released by City Hall.
Mr Mitchell received $20,000 from fast office Supplies, $15,000 from C. Mitchell and $4500 from P. Wight, donations returns lodged with the City show.
Mr Mitchell, a locomotive driver who maintained a second job with the railways while serving as mayor, was chief focus of a major controversy over the City’s councillor ward allocation program prior to last year’s mayoral election.
The next highest donation return lodged after Mr Mitchell was by former Corio shire engineer Rodger Marsden who received 11,699 from 10 different benefactors, followed by architect Greg Jones, wooden-spooner in the poll, with $5750.
Only three candidates received donations under the disclosure declaration.
The rest, including winner Cr Darryn Lyons registered an “N/A” – not applicable – return.
Former mayor Ken Jarvis, whose campaign was supported by regular full-page advertisements financed by local businessmen headed by Frank Costa, similarly declared “N/A”. Mr Jarvis earlier stated the advertisements were run without his knowledge.
For the full list of donations, go to www.geelongaustralia.com.au/council/about/article/item/8cfa041873c9abf.aspx
