By Derek Schlennstedt
Tony Stevenson bid farewell as Yarra Ranges Mayor at the Yarra Ranges Council meeting on 22 October.
In his final speech as Mayor Cr Stevenson expressed his gratitude to his fellow Councillors for their vote of confidence and reflected on the events of the past year – most notably, Council receiving federal funding to seal over 180kms of roads.
“This is the last Council Meeting of this Mayoral Term so thought I would take the opportunity to reflect on a year that has gone fast,” Cr Stevenson said.
“Among my first words were that being elected Mayor was both a great honour and a responsibility. I certainly thank my fellow Councillors for the trust they placed in me.
“It’s been a very busy term which has encompassed a State Election, Federal Election and the recruitment and appointment of a new CEO, as well as addressing many local issues and opportunities.”
“Through the run up to the State Election and beyond we advocated strongly to local MPs, Ministers and bureaucrats for the funding our communities need to modernise our sport and play facilities, enhance our creative spaces and encourage local jobs.”
“We’re one of 79 local governments in Victoria vying for funds but we continue to win funding through good relationships, persistent advocacy and a strong record of delivering.”
“In Australia there are 547 local councils, all fighting for funding and only two, Yarra Ranges and Cardinia secured this critical road infrastructure funding which will change the face of our area?”
The Chandler Ward Councillor said the experience has been enlightening and he looked forward to the coming year.
“As I’ve worked with my fellow councillors and the many facets of our community it has really been enlightening. I have learnt so much in the last year”
“Councillors, in conclusion, it has been a privilege, an honour and a lot of hard work has been done over the past 12 months. Thank you for the opportunity to serve.”
Walling Ward Councillor, Len Cox thanked Cr Stevenson for his commitment to the role.
“When you’re mayor you represent the entire municipality and you get around all those nine ward on a regular basis and Councillor Stevenson I think you’ve done it extremely well and made us proud, so congratulations to you – it’s been terrific.”
