The counting of votes from the 2024 local government elections has almost finished, with declarations happening across the region.
One of the most recent declarations was Strathbogie Shire Council, which made the official declaration of its seven councillors on Friday, November 8.
The successful candidates were:
- Scott Jeffery
- Fiona Stevens
- Claire Ewart-Kennedy
- Vicki Halsall
- Laura Binks
- Gregory Carlson
- Clark Holloway
“I congratulated the new councillors and reiterated my commitment to supporting them to function well as a team, and to foster strong and positive working relationships with council officers,” council interim chief executive Tim Tamlin said.
“This is really an exciting time for our community, and I am looking forward to getting to know each of them as we work through a comprehensive transition program.”
During the declaration, a few of the councillors stood up to say a few words, all thanking the community, their friends and family and the council executive staff and chief executive.
“I would very much like to thank all those candidates that put their hand up for this,” Fiona Wallace said.
“It’s not an easy task because you’re putting yourself out there and as those that have been through it, know that sometimes that doesn’t always bring positive comments or responses, so I congratulate them and thank them.“
Claire Ewart-Kennedy said she was excited to work with the group of councillors elected.
“I believe there is a broad depth of experience and community connectedness, which is really important, but also a genuine love and care for this community,” she said.
“We are elected as councillors to represent the voice and the community that put us in the chair.
“So I commit to taking that voice with me into the chamber to be in the forefront of any decisions we make.”
The work does not stop for the new councillors, with a swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday, November 12 and a statutory council meeting to be held on Tuesday, November 19.
In the meeting, the councillors will elect a mayor. They may also elect a deputy mayor; however, it is not a requirement.