There are plenty of aspects of my role as deputy mayor that I enjoy, such as officiating emotional citizenship ceremonies and awarding grants to community groups and organisations.
Another one is mentoring the Youth Council, the official ‘youth voice’ of the region.
I’ve really enjoyed connecting with the three youth members from the Bellarine Ward each year and listening to what they have to say.
While us councillors are there to mentor the young people, we certainly learn a thing or two from them.
They have such a fresh way of looking at issues and it is really valuable for us to know what matters most to young people in my ward.
Having had an interest in leadership from a young age myself, I wish this program was available when I was their age.
Nominations for next year’s Youth Council are now open for young people aged between 12 and 17.
Is there a young person in your life who’s passionate about making a difference on the Bellarine?
They could be a good fit.
Youth members make recommendations to council, learn leadership skills, consult with their peers, attend events and receive councillor mentoring.
This is a terrific opportunity, so please pass this link onto the young people in your life: geelongaustralia.com.au/youthcouncil
In other local news, council welcomes the release of the final draft statement of planning policy for the Bellarine Peninsula’s ‘Distinctive Area and Landscape’ program.
This is a significant program for our region, as it designates long-term settlement boundaries and aims to better protect our unique environment.
We support the Victorian Government’s work to implement the directions of council’s Settlement Strategy to shift future greenfield growth away from The Bellarine to urban Geelong.
Council will consider the endorsement of the statement at a future council meeting.
Stay tuned.
