A fond farewell and thank you

AFTER seven rewarding years as a Bellarine Ward councillor, it is time for me to step back and reflect on this journey.

Some weeks ago, I announced that I would not contest the City of Greater Geelong election for a third time and would retire from public life.

After having the privilege and honour of being twice elected, I have decided, at the age of 77, to hand on the baton to the next generation.

Serving our community has been an honour, and I’m deeply grateful for the trust and support you’ve shown me throughout these years.

When I first took on this role, I embarked on a journey to enhance the quality of life for everyone in our municipality.

Over the years, I have witnessed firsthand how our collective efforts have led to meaningful changes across our region, especially our beautiful Bellarine Peninsula.

I am especially proud of the progress we have made in protecting the natural environment that makes where we live so special.

Preserving the Bellarine’s natural beauty has always been a priority for me, and I’ve been determined to advocate for environmentally sustainable housing policies and the protection of our coastal and rural environments.

The City of Greater Geelong is the state’s fastest-growing city and regional economy and has the fastest-growing regional employment in Australia.

While this growth is exciting, it also comes with much responsibility for ensuring that our region’s development is sustainable and well thought out.

Our investments in local parks, sporting facilities and shared pathways have encouraged a healthier, more active lifestyle for residents of all ages.

One of my significant contributions has been advocating for the development of shared trails that connect townships along dedicated biolinks.

These trails represent pathways for recreation and are vital links between communities and nature.

Although there is still much more to be done, I am proud of the policies and programs that we have developed on climate change, the environment, social issues, services and infrastructure.

Some highlights include the Environment Strategy 2020-2030, the Climate Change Response Plan 2021-2030 and the Social Housing Plan 2020-2041.

These initiatives, among many others, have helped shape a more sustainable and equitable future for our community.

It has also been rewarding to represent the City of Greater Geelong in the Municipal Association of Victoria, The Australian Coastal Council and other regional bodies, along with various local boards and committees for organisations such as Geelong Regional Library Corporation and Geelong Gallery.

Chairing the committee for The Potato Shed, our home of local theatre, is a role I look back on with special fondness.

It brings me great joy to reflect on the many constituents who have contacted me for assistance and that, in most cases, I have been able to assist.

Of course, there were a few issues that remain outstanding or unresolved, with unhappy punters. That’s the nature of the task.

I acknowledge the many highly professional, progressive, committed and capable City officers and thank the wonderful staff in the Councillor Support Office.

I particularly want to thank my family and close friends who have supported me over the last seven years.

Above all, I thank my life’s love, Lynne, for her steadfast support during my time as a councillor.

Now, we both will eagerly begin new adventures together.

It has been an honour to represent the Bellarine, and I am immensely proud of what we have accomplished together.

Thank you for the privilege of representing you all and I look forward to seeing the Bellarine continue to thrive in the years to come.

Cr Jim Mason

Bellarine Ward, City of Greater Geelong