Council elects new city leaders

CITY of Greater Geelong councillor Trent Sullivan will serve as mayor for the next two years with Anthony Aitken as his deputy after councillors chose to shake up their leadership.

Crs Sullivan and Aitken were elected unopposed to their roles at tonight’s council meeting and will lead the city until the next council elections in October 2024.

Cr Sullivan, a Bellarine Ward representative, had a taste of leadership as deputy to Stephanie Asher and Peter Murrihy during the current council’s first two years, and a stint at interim mayor while Cr Asher contested the federal election earlier this year.

“Whilst indeed the leader, the position of mayor I believe has always been one among equals, and that’s how I intend to approach this position going forward,” he said.

“I’m honoured to be elected to this position to be able to do my part, and I look forward to the journey going forward, to working with a proven and capable deputy mayor and every councillor here.

“This is a fine council of proactive community members and it is for each and every community member that we do serve.”

Windermere Ward councillor Anthony Aitken said he hoped his new role would inspire fellow northern Geelong residents to aspire to leadership in their community.

“I’m humbled by the trust this council group has given me tonight.

“I love local government, I love Geelong, and I’m really looking forward to supporting Mayor Sullivan and the rest of this council to working towards our aspirations, but ultimately what the community we represent wants.”