News

Campaspe Shire Council welcomes new era with fresh leadership

By Jemma Jones

Nov 17, 2024

The Campaspe Shire Council, (from left) Cr Tony Marwood, Cr Adrian Weston, Cr Zoe Cook, Cr Rob Amos, Cr Paul Jarman, Cr Daniel Mackrell, Cr Jessica Mitchell, Cr John Zobec and Cr Luke Sharrock. Photo: Supplied

The Campaspe Shire Council enters a new era with a blend of experienced and new councillors, poised to navigate the region through the recently implemented unsubdivided ward system.

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On Thursday, November 14, Campaspe Shire welcomed its new council group, with six re-elected members bringing valuable experience: Crs Rob Amos, Tony Marwood, Daniel Mackrell, John Zobec, Paul Jarman and Adrian Weston.

Wollithiga Elder Uncle Rick Ronnan performed a Welcome to Country for the new, outgoing and returning councillors, their friends and families, and Campaspe Shire Council staff. Photo: Emily Donohoe. Photo by Emily Donohoe

They are joined by three fresh faces: Crs Jessica Mitchell, Luke Sharrock and Zoe Cook.

The evening commenced with a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, conducted by respected Wollithiga Elder Uncle Rick Ronnan at Echuca Aquatic Reserve, symbolising new beginnings.

Returning councillor Rob Amos passes through the smoke. Photo: Emily Donohoe. Photo by Emily Donohoe

Outgoing councillors Colleen Gates and Leanne Pentreath shared invaluable insights with the newly elected members, reflecting on their collaborative experiences and the challenges and triumphs encountered during their terms.

“Every council term we start fresh, but this term will mean a lot for those who have gone through the past four years,” Ms Gates said.

“Remember to look at the big picture and the strategic plan going forward... be visionary,” Ms Pentreath said.

One of three outgoing councillors, Colleen Gates is thanked by Campaspe Shire Council chief executive Pauline Gordon. Photo: Emily Donohoe. Photo by Emily Donohoe

Each councillor made an oath or affirmation to the council before signing a declaration.

Campaspe Shire Council chief executive Pauline Gordon expressed confidence that the blend of returning councillors and new members would infuse the council with fresh perspectives and reinvigorated leadership, driving strategic initiatives for the region.

Joining council for the first time is Cr Luke Sharrock, Cr Jessica Mitchell and Cr Zoe Cook, who is pictured with Ms Gordon. Photo: Emily Donohoe. Photo by Emily Donohoe

The new council will vote for who will take on the mayor and deputy mayor roles at a meeting on Tuesday, November 19 before meeting again at their first scheduled meeting for the term on Tuesday, December 10.