Councillor returns to action
Baw Baw Shire west ward councillor Keith Cook has returned from a leave of absence following a serious motorcycle crash in April.
Cr Cook took four months leave but last week returned to duties more than one month earlier than planned.
Cr Cook was involved in a serious motorcycle collision interstate. He was riding with friends when he crashed on a dirt track near Cameron Corner.
He was airlifted by the Royal Flying Doctor Service to Royal Adelaide Hospital. His extensive injuries included eight broken ribs and punctured lungs.
Cr Cook returned to council duties at last week's meeting.
Cr Cook acknowledged the people who assisted him at the accident scene and the Royal Flying Doctors Service staff who were "absolutely marvellous."
He also thanked staff at Royal Adelaide Hospital
for looking after him when he was in a lot of trouble.
Cr Cook thanked fellow councillors who gave him a lot of support as well as officers and community members who took the time to contact him.
"I am still fairly frail and have a long way to go but representing my community is something very special and I believe I am capable of playing my role in council," he said.
Cr Joe Gauci said Cr Cook had an interesting time over the past few months and the fact he was returning earlier indicated he was feeling better.
Cr Danny Goss said it had been a remarkable recovery.
Cr Goss said Cr Cook had been missed at council and he hoped his health continued to improve.
Cr Tricia Jones said it was good to have the full complement of west ward councillors back on board.