Shire councillors appointed to committees, organisations

THE Surf Coast Shire has announced the councillors who will represent the community’s needs on various committees and organisations this year.

Councillors decided the 2026 appointments at their December meeting.

Deputy mayor Tony Phelps highlighted the importance of the roles.

“With the recent adoption of our Council Plan and the election of mayor and deputy mayor, it’s an ideal time to assign councillors to these committees and organisations which make a difference in our local community and the wider region,” he said.

“We’re committed to working towards our Council Plan goals and community priorities, and this is another way we’re able to do that.

“Personally, I’m looking forward to continuing to be part of Council’s Positive Ageing Advisory Committee. It’s been great to see how the committee provides advice to foster a community where older people are valued, supported and empowered to live well.”

As mayor, Cr Libby Stapleton is the automatic choice for several of the positions.

The appointments for 2026 are listed here.

Committees that provide specific advice to the council:

Audit and Risk Committee: Cr Joel Grist and Cr Mike Bodsworth
All Abilities Advisory Committee: Cr Phoebe Crockett (sub: Cr Leon Walker)
CEO Employment Matters Committee: all councillors
Positive Ageing Advisory Committee: Cr Phelps (sub: Cr Grist).

Director positions in corporations with local government representation:

Geelong Regional Library Corporation: Cr Liz Pattison
Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism Inc. Board: chief executive officer Robyn Seymour and mayor Libby Stapleton
G21 Geelong Region Alliance Ltd – Board of Directors: CEO and Cr Stapleton.

Other committees and organisations: