Ring the Bell, he’s the new mayor

THE Surf Coast Shire council has elected David Bell as its next mayor.

Cr Bell – a first-time mayor – was selected for the top job by his fellow councillors at a special council meeting last week, with Cr Clive Goldsworthy appointed deputy mayor.

Both will serve-one year terms.

Cr Bell said it was a humbling experience to accept the nomination.

“The position of mayor is not one of despotic leader, it is to be the first among equals. To be, as it were, the spokesman for the combined input of councillors and officers.

“First and foremost, I’m a representative for the whole shire – from the basalt plains behind Winchelsea, to the limestone cliffs of the coast.

“I look forward to a productive year together that will advance the shire.”

Cr Bell, partner Traci and their two sons moved to the Surf Coast in 2002.

They run a small organic farm in Bellbrae, and Cr Bell manages the Torquay Farmers Market.

Cr Goldsworthy thanked his fellow councillors for entrusting him with the position.

In his valedictory speech, outgoing mayor Cr Brian McKiterick said it had been a challenging but productive year for the council.

“I think one of the most important things we undertook in the first year was developing a council plan that was not only visionary but also very progressive – it needs to be because of the growth being undertaken not only in Torquay but also in Winchelsea, and also provides the foundation for the future of the Surf Coast Shire.”

He said despite the introduction of rate capping, the shire had one of the soundest financial positions of any council in Victoria.