Councillor Colleen Gates will serve as Mayor of Hobsons Bay for 2019-20, following a unanimous vote at Council’s Mayoral Election on Friday night.
It is Cr Gates’ second time as Mayor, having previously served in the role in 2014-15 and serving as Deputy Mayor in 2013-14 and in 2016-17. Cr Gates has been a Councillor since 2012.
Cr Gates said it was a privilege to be elected as Mayor for 2019-20 and is thankful for the support and confidence of her Councillor colleagues.
“The collective skillsets of all the Councillors is amazing and I am very proud to lead such a dynamic group,” said Cr Gates.
Cr Gates said her Mayoral Program will align with the vision and the strategic direction of Council, with a focus on three key areas – open space, community connectedness and innovation.
“We know our residents treasure our coastline, parklands and sports fields,” said Cr Gates.
“We have done some good work in this space already but I would like to place some focus on how Council and the community can further protect, enhance and share these spaces for all.”
Cr Gates said community connectedness is achieved with the help of Hobsons Bay’s volunteers, who are ‘the glue of the community’.
“People with a passion, hobby or interest give up their time freely to connect with others and make a difference for our community. I want to showcase these hard working groups across the city, especially those who may not be as well known,” said Cr Gates.
“As for innovation, I see an opportunity to collaborate further with our younger residents to develop innovative ideas and find projects for potential implementation.”
Cr Gates said the opportunity to work with and represent our community is what makes the elected role special.
“I look forward to working with my colleagues and the organisation to deliver on the needs of our community,” said Cr Gates.
Cherry Lake Ward Councillor Sandra Wilson was also elected Deputy Mayor for another term on Friday night. Cr Wilson served as Mayor in 2013-14 and 2016-17 and Deputy Mayor in 2015-16. She has also been a Councillor since 2012.
Newly elected Deputy Mayor Cr Wilson said she is proud to be in the leadership team of a calm and focussed Council that has its sights set on achieving Hobsons Bay 2030 Community Vision.
“I’m looking forward to supporting the Mayor and my colleagues in another year of initiative and innovation in these ever changing and challenging times,” said Cr Wilson.
“I think this will be a magnificent year. We will continue to build on our strong environmental focus and maintain the liveability of Hobsons Bay.”
