It’s been a whirlwind since I was elected Greater Geelong mayor.
I’m thankful for the support of my fellow councillors last Friday, but most of all, the overwhelming positive response from the community following my appointment.
I am honoured to have this opportunity to serve the region as mayor.
This position is such a contrast from my beginnings in Geelong, when I arrived as a 19-year-old from Port Fairy in 1980 without knowing a soul.
I found friends and mentors quickly, through working in banking and at Victoria Police, and through volunteering.
It’s been a privilege to be involved with St Mary’s Football Club, Newtown and Geelong Amateur, become president of the Geelong Racing Club and have a long involvement with the Lorne Surf Life Saving Club as past president.
I am proud to be an Active Geelong ambassador and am a strong supporter of the Barwon Health Foundation.
I’m also an active member of The Man Walk and Right Mate committee, which both support men’s mental health – an issue which doesn’t get the coverage it deserves.
I’m lucky to have met many great locals of all backgrounds, who’ve taught me the region’s biggest strength is our people.
I love getting out and I can’t wait to continue meeting and listening to more community members during my term.
A week in, I’ve been eagerly meeting with stakeholders across the city.
I’m focused on ensuring Geelong is set up for success, supported by effective and collaborative working relationships with all levels of government.
I plan to meet with our state MPs soon so they can get to know me and what I stand for as an Independent and work together to achieve the best outcomes.
Stronger bonds will also support preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Games.
The Games offer countless opportunities for our region.
I’ll make it clear that we’re embracing this chance to showcase regional Victoria to the world.
An important moment coming up will be the endorsement of the 2022-23 budget at next week’s council meeting.
This will kick off our capital works program for footpaths, libraries, environmental programs, community hubs and more.
A new 10-year Asset Plan will also come before us, proposing to increase funding to improve ageing infrastructure.
This reflects our commitment to delivering quality facilities to everyone, regardless of where you live.
I thank everyone who made a submission about our financial plans.
The Landy Field development is high on my priority list, with planning under way to ensure it’s a centre of excellence for athletics that is inclusive of everyone.
As is ensuring that Eastern Beach remains a jewel in Geelong’s crown with a review of the Conservation Management Plan and strong advocacy for funding of a Regional Indoor Sports and Events Centre.
I know my term is for a short period, but I see this as an opportune time to make positive change.
We have a great group of councillors who are incredibly passionate and know the communities in their wards at a deep level.
I’m looking forward to working with them, and I am pleased to be able to connect with readers of the Geelong Indy through this new column.
It is worth looking past the headlines and seeing that we are doing well as a region and the future looks bright.
As your mayor, I promise to make tangible change so that Greater Geelong is an even better place to live.
I won’t take this opportunity for granted.
