New mayor wants more connection

By Tania Martin
COMMUNITY engagement is the top priority for new Shire of Yarra Ranges mayor Tim Heenan.
The Billanook Ward councillor was elected unopposed at a special meeting of the council last Tuesday night.
Cr Heenan said he is thrilled to be elected mayor for the next 12 months and looks forward to serving the Yarra Ranges community.
O’Shannassy Ward councillor and former mayor Monika Keane said it had been great to be given the opportunity to represent the people of Yarra Ranges over the past 12 months.
She said it had been an eventful year, especially with the appointment of five new councillors in 2005.
Shire chief executive officer Rob Hauser said Cr Keane has done a fantastic job as mayor especially as she acted as mentor to the five new councillors.
“She has faced some complex issues but she put her heart and soul into the job and did marvellously,” he said.
Cr Heenan said he hopes to follow Cr Keane’s lead in engaging with all communities across the shire.
He said he is committed to focusing on issues that concern communities.
“Every voice should be heard, whether they are part of a formal community group or not,” he said.
His deputy, Lyster Ward councillor Samantha Dunn, said she looks forward to a fantastic year for the shire and welcomes her new role.
Cr Dunn said it is important for the council to build on its environmental initiatives including reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Cr Heenan said he would also like to see more eco tourism created for businesses and the community.
“There are so many opportunities in the Yarra Ranges for businesses to capitalise on the beauty of our natural environment,” he said.
“Like all my fellow councillors, I am passionate about our community and the need to protect our environment for future generations to enjoy.”