I AM HONOURED you have elected me as councillor for the newly-created Murradoc Ward to represent our vibrant and growing communities across the northern Bellarine.With family ties to this region spanning more than 70 years, I feel a strong sense of responsibility to represent our community and preserve the natural beauty of the Bellarine.<\/p>\n
My professional background as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon, lawyer and Air Commodore in the Royal Australian Air Force Reserve has prepared me to tackle this complex challenge.<\/p>\n
Having retired from these varied and fulfilling roles, I am now focused on giving back to the community I proudly call home.<\/p>\n
My background as a surgeon has given me a deep understanding of healthcare, and I am committed to ensuring Council’s decisions promote the health and wellbeing of our community.<\/p>\n
Our upcoming Council Plan will include the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, which will embed these priorities into all council actions.<\/p>\n
Good health is our most valuable asset, and fostering it is central to the City’s work to support participation and wellbeing at every stage of life.<\/p>\n
The City of Greater Geelong is the state’s fastest-growing city and regional economy and has the fastest-growing regional employment in Australia.<\/p>\n
While this growth is exciting, it also comes with much responsibility for ensuring that our region’s development is sustainable and well thought out.<\/p>\n
As a councillor, I am committed to balancing this progress with preserving our natural assets.<\/p>\n
Spaces like Murrk Ngubitj Yarram Yaluk, formerly known as the Bellarine Basin and located on the corner of Grubb Road and Swan Bay Road, Wallington, are vital cultural sites.<\/p>\n
The basin is no longer being used for operational purposes. It presents an exciting opportunity to reimagine this space in a way that enhances the unique and natural features so that it becomes a place people, birds and native animals can enjoy for generations to come.<\/p>\n
On the Bellarine, balancing development with environmental preservation is an ongoing challenge, and we must provide safe and equitable environments to support healthier lifestyles.<\/p>\n
By working together, we can achieve sustainable progress that respects the unique character of our region.<\/p>\n
Effective governance and financial responsibility are critical, and I am committed to ensuring that our Council remains accountable, transparent and focused on delivering results.<\/p>\n
It is a privilege to represent the newly created Murradoc ward, and I am excited to work with the community to build a future that reflects our shared values.<\/p>\n
As a new member of the Bellarine State Emergency Service (SES), I have gained an even greater appreciation for the incredible work done by our local volunteers, and as a councillor I will work to support the work of these fantastic individuals.<\/p>\n
Community feedback will also be central to my work, and I am committed to listening to your ideas and responding to your concerns.<\/p>\n
Together, we can ensure that our beautiful region continues to thrive for many years to come.<\/p>\n
I wish you all a safe and happy festive period, and I look forward to speaking with you at some of the many community events the City of Greater Geelong has planned over the summer.<\/p>\n
Cr Rowan Story<\/p>\n
Murradoc Ward,<\/p>\n
City of Greater Geelong<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
I AM HONOURED you have elected me as councillor for the newly-created Murradoc Ward to represent our vibrant and growing communities across the northern Bellarine.With family ties to this region spanning more than 70 years, I feel a strong sense of responsibility to represent our community and preserve the natural beauty of the Bellarine. My […]<\/p>\n