Third mayoral term for Metcalf

AS the City of Greater Bendigo’s current councillors head into their final term before the 2024 municipal elections, Cr Andrea Metcalf has been re-elected mayor.

Cr Metcalf said she was honoured to serve a third consecutive year in the job, with Cr Matthew Evans alongside her in the deputy mayoral role.

“It is a privilege to serve in this role and I thank my council colleagues for the opportunity to continue our great work together,” she said.

“The best part of the job as mayor is the range of events and opportunities to meet with residents.

“I enjoy meeting people from all parts of our community, being involved with different cultural groups and sporting events, and I always appreciate learning new things.

“I am energised by this opportunity to serve a third term and continuing to work towards achieving council’s vision of a bright and happy future for all residents.”

Cr Evans is also familiar with his responsibilities, having served as deputy-mayor alongside Cr Metcalf in the 2021/2022 council year.

“Although there are challenges ahead, there are also opportunities to achieve good outcomes for the community as we focus on managing growth and building a sustainable future for all generations,” he said.

“I look forward to supporting the mayor and fellow councillors to deliver key priorities outlined in our council plan, Mir Wimbul, 2021-2025.”

Cr Metcalf said it’s time to make a “final push” on finishing, or beginning, projects and initiatives as a new CEO prepares to take over at Town Hall.

“This is our final push to either start or complete a range of projects and ensure that the next council is set up for success,” she said.

“We have recently appointed Andrew Cooney as our next CEO, who is committed to delivering outcomes that support our local communities.”

Cr Metcalf acknowledged that community consultation is ramping up on the on the 2024/2025 Budget, which she said would be a “challenging” one.

“The reality of operating under rate-capping with costs on the rise means there is less income available to fund new projects and initiatives,” she said.

“Community input early in the process is crucial and an opportunity to let us know which services are valued most.

“One of our key legacy items as a council is a strategy for managed growth and planning for future housing supply.

“Unlocking more industrial land is also needed, and work is ongoing to deliver the Bendigo Regional Employment Precinct.

“Regional leadership is also an important focus, including through my involvement in Regional Cities Victoria and advocacy to state and federal government.

“We will continue advocacy work to receive our share of the $2B allocated to the regions by the Victorian Government following the cancellation of the Commonwealth Games.”

A formal mayoral ceremony is set for Tuesday 7 November at Bendigo Town Hall.