Lyons back in lights
CITY Hall has endorsed an event starring Darryn Lyons, just over a year after he was axed as Geelong mayor.
The event hosted by Entrepreneurs Geelong scheduled for July 7 features Mr Lyons, pictured, discussing his career from cadet photographer to media star in Fleet St.
The function has been sponsored by the City of Greater Geelong, several businesses and the Geelong Chamber of Commerce.
The former civic leader’s career was described in promotional material as “colourful”. “While recently remembered for his three years as mayor of the City of Greater Geelong, Darryn is an award-winning photographer, media personality and seasoned entrepreneur whose career has always been colourful,” it said.
Relations between the City of Greater Geelong and Mr Lyons have been strained since his departure as mayor. The flamboyant businessman criticised the council on several fronts, particularly on the matter of parking in the central business district.
City of Greater Geelong communications manager Geoff Russell distanced the council from the selection of the speaker, noting the other sponsors involved.
He would not say whether City Hall sponsorship of the Lyons event indicated a thawing of relations between current council leaders and the sacked mayor.
“The City joins Telstra, Australia Post, the Federal Government’s Small Business Smart Business, and the Geelong Chamber of Commerce as a principal member of Entrepreneurs Geelong,” he said.
“The City views its support of this (non-profit) association — and many similar business initiatives — as part of an overall strategy to help drive local economic development.
“The City plays no part in the selection of Entrepreneurs Geelong’s guest speakers, and entrusts that responsibility to its highly experienced local board.”
Entrepreneurs Geelong is an independent group of business figures and hosts regular forums with keynote speakers.
The board consists of president Matthew Fletcher, of GrantReady, vice-president Nicole Crammond, of Nexus Teamwear, Liz Grant, from YourCustomers, Geoff Crowl, of BITC, Warren Granger, from Local Media Marketing and Mike Vanderkelen, from Infotech.