By Laura Michell
Voters in Melton and Moorabool have backed familiar faces and incumbent councillors to represent them on council.
Counting across Melton’s 10 wards and in Moorabool Shire concluded on Thursday, October 7.
Melton residents will be represented by one more councillor over the next four years after the municipality’s ward structure was change from three wards, each with three councillors, to 10 single-councillor wards.
Seven of the nine incumbent councillors were re-elected. Justine Farrugia did not contest the election, while Goran Kesic was unsuccessful in his bid for re-election.
The returning councillors are Steve Abboushi (Bullum Bullum Ward), Bob Turner (Cambrian Ward), Ashleigh Vandenberg (Jackwood Ward), Kathy Majdlik (Lake Caroline Ward), Julie Shannon (Stringybark Ward), Lara Carli (Sugar Gum Ward) and Sophie Ramsey (Watts Ward).
The three new faces joining council are Brandi Morris (Coolibah ward), John Verdon (Hilltop Ward) and Phillip Zada (Mount Atkinson Ward).
In a statement on social media, Mr Verdon said his election to council was the culmination of many years of hard work advocating for the community.
“However, it’s also just the start. What I’m most pleased about, is the opportunity afforded me to make a meaningful difference for the people of the Hilltop Ward and the broader City of Melton,” he said.
Mr Zada said it was an honour to be elected.
“Thank you to everyone who voted, supported, and believed in our vision. To those who didn’t vote for me, I look forward to earning your trust as we work together to create a better future for all,” he said.
In Moorabool, 15 candidates were vying for nine vacancies. The shire was previously represented by seven councillors.
Five incumbent councillors – Paul Tatchell, Ally Munari, Moira Berry, Rod Ward and Tom Sullivan – sought re-election and were successful.
Outgoing councillors Tonia Dudzik and David Edwards did not contest the election.
The four new faces joining the council are Jarrod Bingham, Steven Venditti, John Keogh and Sheila Freeman.
Mr Tatchell received the highest percentage of first preference votes (13.04 per cent).
Melton council will meet on Thursday, November 21 to elect the mayor and deputy mayor.
