Jockeying continues in Geelong’s mayoral race
A FIELD of contenders is shaping up in Geelong’s mayoral race, with the new face of Pat Murnane appearing to lead the charge.
The former Bendigo Bank manager has moved into contention for the city’s top job, which is set to be chosen by councillors at an internal vote next Tuesday.
Returning councillor Eddy Kontelj said the 11 election winners had begun discussions about who would be suitable for the roles of mayor and deputy mayor.
“Loosely, it looks like there might be three or four who might have the desire or have the time to be able to put in to the role,” Mr Kontelj said.
“Pat Murnane is also a person I believe might be interested in it, and I think Pat’s got some really good credentials and comes with business experience, very good community connections and I think he’s very well respected in our community.”
Councillor-elect Murnane had a leadership role with the Bendigo Bank for 25 years, served on the Barwon Health Foundation Board for a decade and is now the chairman of the Samaritan House Foundation, which raises funds for homeless residents.
Mr Murnane said the leadership decision needed to demonstrate the new council’s unity, after the previous council was sacked by the State Government in 2016.
“I’m keen to get a really good (leadership) team, whether or not I’ll be part of it is to be determined by the group,” Mr Murnane said. “I’m interested, but I really want to make sure it’s a strong team, and we just want the right combination.
“It’s a bit premature, and that’s why I’m not going out and making big statements, I want to sit down and talk to the other 10 people.”
Mr Kontelj said fellow returning councillors Bruce Harwood and Peter Murrihy had also put their hands up for the job, while Stephanie Asher had also thrown her hat in the ring from overseas.
Ms Asher was away for the election vote count and official declaration, attending an American Film Market event in Los Angeles. It is understood she returns to Australia today.
Ms Asher, who has twice run for direct election as mayor, confirmed her likely candidacy to the Geelong Advertiser on Sunday.
“I don’t think it will be news to anyone that I’m interested in the mayoral role, coming second in two direct elections made my intentions pretty clear,” she said.
“My close observations of the role and responsibilities of the mayor over the past five years, and my platform of honest, open and professional behaviour, stand me in good stead.
“My track record in the corporate and public sector, as well as my ongoing involvement in the community means my credentials are as strong or stronger than most for the role.” Mr Harwood was tightlipped when asked about his mayoral intentions on Sunday.
“I’ll just chat to the other councillors and get feedback from them, and see what they’re thinking,” Mr Harwood said.