By Jenel Hunt
It was a fresh start in more ways than one when the mayor and councillors of the Southern Downs Regional Council were sworn in at the Warwick chambers on Wednesday 3 April.
With a changing of the guard for the mayor and five of the eight councillors – and the first time the renovated chambers had been open to the public – it was a new look all round.
In front of a packed gallery, newcomer Melissa Hamilton took over the reins of the mayoralty.
“The recent election has delivered a council with a wonderful blend of both youth and experience,” she said.
“Congratulations to our five new councillors, Carla Pidgeon, Joel Richters, Sarah Deane, Morwenna Harslett and Russell Wantling. This is an exciting and memorable day for you and I look forward to your energy and enthusiasm bringing fresh ideas into the council chamber.”
She welcomed returning councillors Sheryl Windle, Cynthia McDonald and Ross Bartley, saying she would look to them to help provide leadership and guidance needed to create a cohesive council.
“I ask that we commit ourselves to work as a team for the benefit of the people of the Southern Downs who we have the privilege to represent.
“They gave us a clear message that they wanted a council that would listen to them and work together respectfully.”
With the staff’s expertise, they would be able to provide a transparent council with well-informed decisions, she said.
Council CEO Dave Burges said he looked forward to working collaboratively with the incoming councillors to create a solid foundation for effective governance and community representation.
“Being a member of council is both rewarding and demanding, and I wish the incoming councillors all the best for their term, especially those who are new to Local Government,” he said.
“The efforts of councillors are vital in shaping the future of our region, addressing local issues and advocating for the interests of residents.”
The mayor and eight councillors each gave their declaration to faithfully and impartially fulfil the duties of the office to the best of their judgement and ability.
Two of the old guard were also in evidence – both of whom had retired at the end of the term. Jo McNally was there in person to watch the swearing-in procedure then joined the press line-up to take photos of the new team.
Supporting from a distance was Marco Gliori, who left a message on the SDRC’s Facebook livestream, “Congratulations to the mayor and councillors. Wishing you all the very best for a successful and collaborative term.”
Following the swearing-in was a brief council meeting then councillors immediately made a start on their in-depth training.
