Colac Otway Shire Mayor Cr Jason Schram has described an opportunity to discuss the shire community’s resilience and strength during difficult times with the Governor-General of Australia as a great honour.
His Excellency, the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Retd) and Her Excellency Mrs Linda Hurley have reached out to Colac Otway Shire and requested a video conversation this week with Cr Schram and Colac Otway Chief Executive Peter Brown.
“Linda and I have been struck in our conversations with people across Australia by the very strong determination that we will get through our current challenges. We’ve also been impressed with the many examples of selflessness and kindness in our communities. We are looking forward to meeting virtually with Cr Schram and Mr Brown; we wish it was face-to-face and look forward to being able to visit the region when conditions permit,” the Governor-General said.
“The Governor-General and Mrs Hurley have expressed a commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of regional communities, and it will be a great honour to be able to speak to them on behalf of the Colac Otway community,” Cr Schram said.
“I understand that Their Excellencies are acutely aware of the compounding challenges COIVD-19 is creating for Colac Otway and other communities.
“I am looking forward to discussing the many challenges our community has experienced and continues to face.
“I am incredibly proud of our community’s response to the restrictions which directly impact every resident and business, and also the Colac and district response to the COVID outbreak which infected more than 100 people.
“The sense of unity across all demographics and our proactive response to minimise the spread and keep people safe was inspiring and clearly demonstrates the calibre of our community,” The Mayor said.
“To be able to convey those experiences to Australia’s Head of State, and discuss the issues Colac Otway faces in its recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic will be important.
“I greatly appreciate the opportunity provided to our shire by The Governor-General and Mrs Hurley.”
