It’s time to move on, time to look to the future

After eight rewarding years as your local councillor at the City of Port Phillip, it is time for me to step aside and pass the baton to a new generation of councillors.

It has been an incredible privilege to serve our community, and I am deeply grateful for the trust and support I have received from the residents and businesspeople of Port Phillip. Thank you!

During my time on council, I’ve had the privilege of representing Port Phillip on the South Melbourne Market Board, HousingFirst Board, as chair of the Multifaith and Grants Committees, and as Mayor.

These positions have been terrifically rewarding and it has been especially inspiring to watch our local market blossom into the best village market in Australia by some margin (and back trading in the black).

Port Melbourne and South Melbourne traditionally played second fiddle to St Kilda and Elwood when it came to the council’s attention, but we have seen significant investments in sporting fields and infrastructure in these areas over the past eight years which has transformed these areas. The culmination of this work was the recent purchase of the Australia Post site in Port Melbourne for $38.8 million and the works at the South Melbourne Town Hall.

Port Phillip is debt-free, with some of the largest cash reserves among councils, ensuring we are well-positioned for future asset purchases, to build much needed infrastructure and the ability to put downward pressure of rates.

Our efforts to support local businesses through the challenges of COVID-19 have been substantial, although the work is far from over given the state of many of our high streets across the city.

There are still many challenges ahead that need to be faced by the next group of councillors. I did my best to serve you and make a positive impact for the future. I loved almost every minute.

There is no greater way to serve your local area than by participating in local government and making decisions that truly reflect the needs of your neighbours. If you’re thinking of running in this year’s election, my advice is to put your hand up and give it a go.

Looking ahead, I am excited to leverage my professional experience as a CEO and skills gained across the public sector to focus on the best path for my future. I am committed to making a meaningful impact over the next decade and beyond. It is a very exciting time, filled with promise and potential.

The broader City of Melbourne needs strong leadership to continue its growth and realise its full potential, and I hope to play a role in that journey through my professional and business activities.

Thank you to everyone in Port Phillip for granting me the privilege to serve as your local councillor. The road ahead is bright, and I am excited to see what can be achieved next.

Stay well. •