Election focus for mayor on leave

MAYOR of Greater Geelong, Stephanie Asher has begun a leave of absence from her role on council, as she turns her focus to the upcoming Federal election as the Liberial candiate for Corrangiermite.

“Being mayor of Greater Geelong is an immense honour and privilege but with the Federal election now just around the corner, the time is right to step aside from the role”, Ms Asher said.

“I am very proud of my record as mayor and serving our local community, particularly infrastructure items supporting our lifestyle, which include endorsing construction of the 50 metre pool in Drysdale and advocating for the second stage indoor complex, as well as the Shared Trails Masterplan, supported by a $5.35 million investment into paths and township connections.

“Our enterprise-wide sustainability plan and detailed climate change response plan, including net-zero for the community by 2035 was also a key achievement.

“From the outset, I committed to taking a leave of absence early this year, which will allow me to focus entirely on campaigning for the Federal seat of Corangamite.”

Ms Asher will contest against Labor MP Libby Coker, who defeated Sarah Henderson at the 2019 election.

“I feel energised by the prospect of the Federal election and potentially representing our local community as your Federal Government representative,” Ms Asher said.

“As your Liberal for Corangamite, I’ll be working 24/7 for things like better local infrastructure and services to manage our regional growth, and of course a strong local economy to help provide security and certainty for local families and retirees.”

Deputy mayor Trent Sullivan will assume mayoral of the City of Greater Geeling duties for the duration of Ms Asher’s absence.