Results for the 2024 local government election were declared by the election manger for Mount Alexander Shire Kelvin Tory on Friday 9 November at the Council Chamber in Castlemaine. A small gathering of supporters and constituents joined key council officers, as each of the successful candidates gave a short speech.
The successful candidate for Barkers Creek Ward was Rosie Annear, who is returning after being elected unopposed. “I’m happy to be back and to work with some new colleagues,” she said.
Also returning to council is Tony Cordy, candidate for Calder Ward, who won with 57.61 per cent after preferences were distributed. He said, “Thanks to all the people involved in running the election. It’s a great council and it’s very rewarding work.”
Bill Maltby was successful in Campbells Creek Ward, winning with 58.36 per cent of first preference votes to return him to his council position. “I’m sure we’ll work well together and work for the betterment of the shire,” he said to the other elected candidates.
New candidate Phillip Walker won in Coliban Ward with 52.18 per cent of the votes after preferences were distributed. His speech acknowledged the efforts of the other two ward candidates and the outgoing councillor, Christine Henderson. He went on to say: “I’m not looking for short term gains, I’m looking for strategic shifts.”
Toby Heydon won Forest Creek Ward unopposed for his first term on Council. “We’re going to work hard together and we’ll have some robust debates,” he said. “I acknowledge all the great work of the outgoing council.”
Returning as the successful candidate of Loddon River Ward is Matt Driscoll, who was elected unopposed. The former mayor offered special congratulations to the new councillors. “One of the most important things is being able to debate with open heart and open mind and listen to each other,” he said. “I’m looking forward to working with you all.”
New candidate Lucas Maddock won Moonlight Creek Ward unopposed. “I felt like I was pretty connected to the community before but this process seems to have taken it to a whole new level. It’s an engaged, creative, passionate and progressive community,” he said. “It’s clear that it has been a high-functioning council, I look forward to maintaining that momentum.”
Rosalie Hastwell, successful new candidate for Tarrengower Ward, was also elected unopposed. “It’s a privilege to be here; it’s exciting, it’s slightly surreal,” she said. “It is an honour to be standing on Djaara Country and part of Mount Alexander Shire. Shout out to my relatively new community in Maldon. Thanks to everyone and here we go!”
Council Chief Executive Darren Fuzzard concluded the official proceedings by providing welcome packs to the successful candidates, saying; “We look forward to the next four years working with you.” Full election results can be found at: tinyurl.com/mvnauwbn.
This article appeared in the Tarrangower Times, 15 November 2024.
