Bass Coast Shire councillors today elected Councillor Clare Le Serve as the region’s new Mayor.
Cr Le Serve, who was recently honoured for her ten years of service, is the first woman in the role since Pamela Rothfield.
“I thank my fellow councillors for their support. This is a huge privilege and I promise to deliver for everyone in Bass Coast,” Cr Le Serve said.
“As one of Australia’s fastest growing regions we have huge opportunity to grow our economy and boost jobs, particularly for our young people. As a grandmother I am absolutely dedicated to ensuring we do all we can to create as many opportunities for the younger generations to continue to live, be educated and work on beautiful Bass Coast.”
Cr Le Serve has lived in Bass Coast for almost 50 years and is passionate about the community, believing that our unique lifestyle sets us apart from any other area in Victoria.
Cr Le Serve has a background in community development, having spent many years in local community organisations, and in the farming community. She believes strongly in supporting community projects that benefits children and is motivated by issues of equality for women and in improving outcomes for disadvantaged sectors within the community.
“The people of Bass Coast rightly expect first class service delivery above all else and that is what I promise to deliver,” she said.
“I am committed to the ongoing review of Council’s services, to the continuous overall improvement of Council’s governance including good financial management, which is critical to keeping rates affordable and delivering quality services and programs, to ensuring smart business management decisions are made for a more transparent and accountable Council.”
Her other priorities will be the climate change emergency, reconciliation, protecting our coast from erosion, supporting the arts sector and local farmers.
“Farmers create the views and the landscape that we the residential community value. We all live in the country for a way of life and I am committed to supporting our farmers and thank them for caring for this land.”
Cr Le Serve currently serves on the Chief Executive Officer Employment Matters Committee, Rural Engagement Group, Gippsland Local Government Waste Forum, South East Australian Transport Study and Bass Coast Events Advisory Committee.
Cr Rochelle Halstead has again been elected Deputy Mayor. Cr Le Serve has expressed how much she is looking forward to working with Cr Halstead and continuing their positive ongoing working relationship.
Cr Le Serve paid tribute to outgoing Mayor Cr Michael Whelan who stepped down after two years in the role.
“Michael simply loves Bass Coast and that has shone through in everything he has done and delivered while Mayor. On behalf of the community, I thank him for his commitment and the legacy he leaves, but I also sincerely appreciate his personal support which will ensure a smooth transition.”
