With the official announcement by the Electoral Commission of Queensland on 25 March declaring Melissa Hamilton as the next Mayor of the Southern Downs, outgoing Mayor Vic Pennisi said his goodbyes.
“It is with a heavy heart that I pen these final words as Mayor of Southern Downs. I bear no malice towards anyone in relation to the election result of 16 March 2024. This is democracy at work and the people have spoken,” Mr Pennisi starts.
This brings a 20-year commitment to council to an end for Pennisi but it also promises a bright future filled with family and friends for him.
“I wish the new Mayor a successful future at the helm and I hope that she finds the same rewards that I have been blessed with during my tenure as Mayor of Southern Downs.”
“For me, the journey as Mayor was amazing and I am deeply proud of what Council achieved during my term. I have many fond memories of the 20 years I have been an elected representative and I thank the people of Southern Downs for their trust and support.”
To be Mayor is to have the support of every person around you and Pennisi recognised the great staff at Southern Downs Regional Council that he has been fortunate to have worked with along the way.
“We have a dedicated workforce, beginning with the front counter staff, all the way through to our outdoors crew and office staff,” Mr Pennisi wrote.
“I would like to extend a special thank you to CEO Dave Burges for his counsel and I owe a huge debt of gratitude to the Directors and Managers who have given the direction and information needed to make the big decisions.
“My sincere thanks also to the great media team who I worked closely with.
“To the Personal Assistants to the Mayor and Councillors, you have been the shining light each and every day.”
With a quote from Winston Churchill to his supporters and a “thanks for all the memories Southern Downs and God Bless you all” he ends his message with what is painted on the walls of the Warwick council building, “What a great place to live, work, play and stay.”
