LOCAL police officer, Brian Gibson will aim to lead a council that faces “challenging times” after being elected to Gannawarra Shire Council’s top civic role.
The Patchell Ward representative, serving his second term in the role, was elected to become council’s ninth mayor since the municipality’s formation 21 years ago following a ballot on Friday night.
The Kerang resident received the support of fellow ward representatives Cr Mark Arians and Cr Jodie Basile, as well as new Yarran Ward representative, Cr Sonia Wright to take up the role following a vote against former mayor, Cr Lorraine Learmonth.
Newly-elected representatives Cr Steven Tasker (Murray Ward) and Cr Charlie Gillingham (Avoca Ward) – who was elected unopposed as deputy mayor during the statutory meeting – voted for Cr Learmonth.
“Being mayor comes with huge responsibilities, as well as honesty and integrity,” Cr Gibson said.
“We, as councillors, are facing huge issue, with financial restraints being one. We need to continue to provide services to the community, but not overspend.
“I would like to thank Lorraine for her efforts as mayor. As she mentioned previously to the ballot, it took a bit to get going before she was able to grasp the role.”
The result makes Cr Gibson the first Kerang resident to be mayor since retired long-serving representative, Keith den Houting in 2010, whilst Cr Learmonth is the first mayor in council’s history to serve one term in the role.
It is also a reversal of a similar ballot 12 months earlier, which saw Cr Learmonth defeat Cr Gibson after being a last-minute candidate.
“I would like to congratulate Brian on his election and look forward to be part of a group of councillors that aim to work for the betterment of Gannawarra Shire Council,” she said.
