Ex-banker to stand
Council election: Independent seeks to strengthen community
FORMER Bendigo Bank manager Pat Murnane is aiming to combine his business nous and love of community as a new Geelong councillor.
Mr Murnane yesterday announced he would contest the southern Kardinia ward at the City of Greater Geelong election next month.
After stepping down from his leadership role with the bank after 25 years to do some consultant work, he said he had the time to effectively serve on the city council.
He has chosen to represent the Kardinia ward, having lived in the area for 40 years with his wife, Marilyn, where they raised their four children.
With no political affiliations, Mr Murnane said he was an independent who wanted to ensure the council enjoyed the respect and support of the public.
He aims to draw on his large network, through his time with community organisations and grassroots projects, to strengthen City Hall’s ties with the public.
Mr Murnane is bullish about the future of Geelong but wants to ensure that the city’s social and economic divide is not widened.
“We have all the ingredients for success but it is important that we do not leave any part of our community behind throughout this journey,” he said.
“Business success, as well as a significant improvement in the lives of the disadvantaged in our community, can go hand-in-hand with the right vision and strong leadership.”
During his time at the Bendigo Bank, Mr Murnane helped establish 11 community organisations in Geelong, which now contribute $1.5 million annually.
One of these, Geelong Connected Communities, has funded more than 400 grassroots projects since its inception in 2013.
Mr Murnane served for 10 years on the Barwon Health Foundation board and is now the chairman of the Samaritan House Foundation, which raises funds for homeless residents.
His grassroots work saw him receive the Committee of Geelong’s 2016 Leadership Award.