Councillor Ally Munari has been elected as the Mayor of Moorabool for the next 12 months.
The Woodlands Ward councillor was promoted from her 2022-23 position as deputy mayor at a council meeting on Thursday, November 8.
In her acceptance speech Cr Munari said one word ahs continued to shine for her during her last three years on council – “service”.
“In life I am determined to find a way to serve and serve greatly without leaving any stone unturned, because I truly believe that the greatest satisfaction in life is determined by our service,” she said.
“As a councillor we all work for the people of Moorabool. They are the people that put us in these chairs, and I will continue to encourage our residents to reach out and continue those active discussions about the passion we all have for our region.
“As a councillor, as a community member, and now as your mayor, it is an enormous privilege to be elected mayor of this shire. I will lead with honour and integrity, and I feel that Moorabool continues to be on the right path for success in the future – thank you.”
During the initial nominations, Cr Munari, Councillor Paul Tatchell, Councillor Moira Berry, and Councillor Tonia Dudzik were put into the running for mayor.
The third rounding of voting came down to Councillors Munari and Berry, with Cr Munari receiving four out of seven votes.
Councillors elected to go ahead with no deputy mayor for 2023-24.
In his outgoing mayoral speech, councillor Rod Ward outlined some of council’s biggest achievements during his term, including stage one of Bachus Marsh’s $17 million indoor stadium, the Telford Park All Abilities Trail, completion of three stages of the Aqualink Trail, completion of the new $4.2 million Ballan Sports and Community Pavilion, completion of the new $5.5 million Darley Sports and Community Pavilion, completion of council’s new outdoor depot in Ballan, completion of the $9.4 million West Maddingley early years hub and more.
Cr Ward also focused on the importance of relationships in contributing to a well functioning council – between councillors and council staff, among councillors, and family support.
“These strong relationships are imperative for navigating the challenging decisions that face us within the modern local government context and our growing municipality,” he said.
“Positive relationships are critical for councils and staff in achieving a common goal of delivering the best outcomes for the miracle Shire community.”
