Terry Woodcroft resigns from Colac Otway council

COLAC Otway Shire councillor Terry Woodcroft has resigned from the council to focus on his work commitments as a Police Youth Officer.

Cr Woodcroft officially ended his time in the position as of Monday this week.

Shire mayor Joe McCracken said Mr Woodcroft was committed to his role as a Police Youth Officer, but the increasing demands of that role, combined with those of local government, “were not sustainable in effectively serving in both roles into the future”.

“He is a dedicated representative of local government and takes this role in serving his community extremely seriously. On behalf of Council and staff I would like to thank Terry for his service and commitment to our Colac Otway community.”

Mr Woodcroft said the decision to resign had been made after many months of consideration.

“The most difficult part of this decision was considering the ratepayers who re-elected me to Council in 2016. I sincerely thank these people who placed their faith in me.

“I have been greatly inspired and often challenged during my five-and-a-half years with local government. I have witnessed dedicated service and commitment.”

He said he had learned a great deal about the diversity of a councillor’s work during his time at Colac Otway Shire.

“Christmas Day 2015 brought bushfires to our shire and there were more fires in our neighbouring shire this year.

“On both occasions, I had the privilege of seeing local government employees and members of this community work together toward a common goal – support and rehabilitation.

“The experience of serving on local government will be invaluable as I concentrate solely on my role as Police Youth Officer.”

The Victorian Electoral Commission (AEC) has announced a countback of votes from the 2016 election will be held in Colac on August 27 to fill the extraordinary vacancy.