Driscoll returned as mayor

Councillor Tony Driscoll will continue as Northern Grampians Shire mayor for another term after winning endorsement at a statutory meeting on Monday.

The Kara Kara ward representative said he was ‘extremely’ honoured to fulfil the role for a second time since joining the council in October 2012.

“It is an honour and a privilege to lead Northern Grampians Shire Council and to represent this community for another term,” he said.

“I will continue to do my utmost to represent Northern Grampians Shire Council to the best of my ability and I know my fellow councillors will do the same.”

Cr Driscoll pointed to successes such as the establishment of the Nectar Farms development, Bulgana Green Power Hub, the clearing of the Stawell tyre stockpile and the Grampians Peaks Trail as an indication the council was working hard to secure ongoing economic viability in the shire.

“This council has proven it is proactive and focused on delivering outcomes which benefit the community we have been elected to serve,” he said.

“I can assure you this energetic approach to representing this region will continue under our leadership.”

However, Cr Driscoll said there was still plenty to be done to ensure a more viable future for Northern Grampians Shire.

“We need to continue to work closely with state and federal governments to ensure local government receives its fair share of funding from both levels, and to advocate for a more equal distribution of the Australian tax dollar,” he said.

“Already we have instituted reviews of all 41 services the council provides to the community, and how we can best tailor those services in order to meet local demand.

“We will be working closely alongside the community throughout that process.”

• For more mayoral appointments, see pages 12 and 13.