New and returning Surf Coast Shire councillors have taken office following a swearing-in ceremony in Council's chambers.
Councillors were surrounded by family and friends for the event, formally marking the start of their four-year terms.
They will gather to elect a mayor and deputy mayor on Thursday evening, 14 November, and the first meeting of the new Council will be on 26 November.
The new Council comprises:
Otway Range Ward
- Libby Stapleton, returned
- Leon Walker, new
- Mike Bodsworth, returned
Torquay Ward
- Liz Pattison, returned
- Rebecca Bourke, new
- Paul Barker, returned
Winchelsea Ward
- Joel Grist, new
- Tony Phelps, new
- Adrian Schonfelder, returned
Council Chief Executive Officer Robyn Seymour: "We congratulate new and returning councillors on their taking of office and wish them well for the term ahead, working together for the betterment of our community.
"Community members are welcome to join the councillors in Council's chambers at 5.30pm on Thursday, 14 November, for election of the mayor and deputy mayor."
Pictured, from left: Councillors Rebecca Bourke, Tony Phelps, Paul Barker, Mike Bodsworth, Liz Pattison, Adrian Schonfelder, Libby Stapleton, Leon Walker, Joel Grist.
