In an uncontested election and with the unanimous support of his fellow Councillors, Cr Ross Ebbels was elected Mayor of the Borough of Queenscliffe on Thursday evening. Cr Boyce Pizzey was re-elected as Deputy Mayor.
Cr Ebbels, who was first elected to Council in 2016, shared some of his priorities for the next year with his fellow Councillors.
“I’m truly honoured and privileged to be elected Mayor of the Borough of Queenscliffe,” said Cr Ebbels. “I want to thank my fellow Councillors for their confidence in me, and Cr Merriman for holding the position to the highest possible standard as mayor for the past year.”
“As a boy, my family and I would camp at GoLightly Caravan Park, and my first job was here in the Borough,” said Cr Ebbels, “I have a strong connection to this community, and I’m looking forward to working as Mayor to protect and improve this special place.”
Cr Ebbels also outlined some priorities for his coming term as mayor. “Finishing the many unfinished projects in the Borough will be a priority for myself and Council over the coming year,” said Cr Ebbels. “We also need to further progress conversations with the City of Greater Geelong around the realignment of the Borough’s boundaries.”
“I’m very excited and looking forward to the year ahead,” said Cr Ebbels, “I look forward to working with my fellow Councillors, Council officers and the community.”
Outgoing Mayor Cr Bob Merriman welcomed the appointment of Cr Ebbels as Mayor. “I want to thank my fellow Councillor and my wife for their support over the past 12 months, and their continued support for the independence of the Borough,” said Cr Merriman.
Cr Merriman also reflected on his favourite moments of his now-concluded term. “A highlight this past year has been overseeing the expansion of Council’s winter activities, including the Low Light Festival. I want to recognise the outstanding work performed by Council officers and volunteers delivering this excellent program.”
