The City of Greater Bendigo is hosting its second Council Candidate information session on Thursday June 20 at 6pm at Galkangu - Bendigo GovHub.
This session is based on the Councillor experience. Residents considering putting up their hand to run in the October 2024 Local Government elections are invited to ask questions of an experienced panel of Local Government leaders to get a sense of a 'day in the life' of a Councillor and their important role in leading and making key decisions on behalf of the community.
Current City of Greater Bendigo Deputy Mayor Cr Matthew Evans, current Mount Alexander Shire Deputy Mayor Cr Rosie Annear and former Greater Shepparton City Council CEO Peter Harriott will share their insights.
City of Greater Bendigo CEO Andrew Cooney encouraged anyone considering running to come along.
"We appreciate our panellists being available to provide their insights on the role of a Councillor, the importance of maintaining strong working relationships between Councillors, the CEO and the broader organisation, and how to successfully govern on behalf of the community," Mr Cooney said.
"The day-to-day of being a Councillor can vary and include community meetings, attending local celebrations, reading and meeting preparation, attending briefings to inform decision making and attending formal Council meetings once a month. It's a diverse but rewarding role.
"I encourage anyone thinking of putting up their hand for the upcoming October elections to come along and ask their questions of the panel."
There is a range of support available to help make serving as a Councillor easier, including reimbursement for childcare, vehicle access to attend community events, financial support for training, reimbursement for travel expenses, laptops and mobile phones are provided, and there is support for people with a disability.
Being a councillor can be likened to having a part-time job and can be balanced with other responsibilities like family, community work or paid work, while the role of the Mayor is a greater time commitment, more like a full-time job.
