Melton councillor Sophie Ramsey donned the mayoral robes last Tuesday and welcomed councillor Nola Dunn as her new deputy.
Cr Ramsey said she was “absolutely stoked” to be elected as mayor for the coming year.
“It’s a huge honour to be representing our beautiful community,” she said.
“In times of crisis [our community] supports, they get behind people, they rally, they volunteer, they’re there.”
The new mayor hopes to advocate for more schools, health facilities, upgrades to the highways and a better public transport system during her term.
“Over the next 10-15 years, we’re going to have so much growth, we need to keep ahead of the pace.
“Keeping up with the pace is a challenge, but keeping ahead of the pace is even more of a challenge.”
Cr Ramsey said Diggers Rest seemed set to be part of the new Sunbury municipality, following the Sunbury-out-of-Hume panel’s recommendations, and she hoped to kick off community consultation soon.
“With the state government election happening in November, there are a lot of services we need from that level of government. I look forward to some huge announcements. Bring it on. I look forward to the year ahead.”
Melton councillor allowances are set at $30,000, while the mayoral allowance is $96,000.
Moorabool Shire council voted for its mayor last week, with central ward councillor Paul Tatchell re-elected to the position. Cr John Spain was reappointed deputy mayor.
Cr Tatchell says he’s looking forward to continuing to represent the council and community as mayor.
“It’s a sign my peers are satisfied with how I’ve handled the role to date, and a vote of confidence about my ability to lead them and the community for the next 12 months,” Cr Tatchell said.
