Surf Coast Shire Council elects new Mayor, Cr Liz Pattison

Published on 15 November 2022

Surf Coast Shire Council has elected Cr Liz Pattison as Mayor.

Cr Pattison is excited to take on the role for the one-year term, and will be supported by Deputy Mayor Cr Mike Bodsworth.

“I look forward to representing the community,” Mayor Pattison said after being elected at a Council meeting on Tuesday 15 November. “I enjoy working with and hearing from the community, and I want to empower our community to do more in the fiscally-restrained environment we’re currently in.”

The election of Mayor Pattison marks the midway point of delivering on the Council Plan.

“It’s an important time. I’m excited to keep gaining momentum on the Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre campaign, as we seek the final $4.5 million in funding needed to make the vision a reality,” she said.

“Achieving the best result for the Karaaf Wetlands, navigating the next steps of the Distinctive Areas and Landscapes Program, learning and growing as part of our Reconciliation commitment, and acting on the Climate Emergency to conserve our local environment standout as other important goals and projects.

“Thinking about the community’s immediate needs, responding to the recent wet weather impacts to help keep people safe is front-of-mind.”

Outgoing Mayor Cr Libby Stapleton reflected on her two years in the role.

“It has been such a privilege to represent this Council and community. I am grateful for the support from my fellow councillors, Council officers, and the broader community,” she said.

“As a team, we’ve achieved important outcomes for the shire - from environmental leadership and taking steps on our Reconciliation journey, to advocacy efforts and progressing opportunities for affordable accommodation across the shire.

“I look forward to supporting our next Mayor and Deputy, as they continue to fulfill our vision to leave the Surf Coast better than we found it.”