Council cements steady position after local election

Councillors Michael Reymond, Graeme Bylund, Natasha Colliver, Tarleah Thomas, Jen Critch, Lewis Freer, Deputy Mayor Neil McIlwaine, Mayor Shane Van Styn, Simon Keemink, Victor Tanti, David Caudwell, Sally Elphick, Jerry Clune and Steve Douglas. (Absent: Bob Hall).

After Saturday’s Local Government Election, City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn says the outcome showed locals took a vote of confidence and had faith in the current Council.

All incumbent Councillors were re-elected and were sworn in at a special meeting of Council last night.

This included Natasha Colliver being re-elected for Tarcoola ward, David Caudwell for Chapman ward and Victor Tanti in the Port ward.

Simon Keemink was also welcomed back to Willcock ward alongside newcomer Sally Elphick while Jerry Clune has stepped back onto Council for Hills ward after two years off.

Steve Douglas will continue in the Champion Bay ward after being elected unopposed as will Jennifer Critch for the Mullewa ward.

Mayor Van Styn said he was looking forward to continuing the hard work of Council.

“Having all incumbent Councillors returned on Saturday night demonstrates the community are happy with the direction of Council and are asking us to keep the course steady,” he said.

“Our Council is incredibly proactive and we work extremely well together and the two new candidates who filled vacancies are sure to continue in that vain.

“The election result is also another endorsement of our decision to extend trading hours in Geraldton.”

Mayor Van Styn said the two new candidates are welcome additions to Council.

“Jerry Clune is an experienced and highly respected former Councillor and he has worked with a majority of Council members only two years ago,” he said.

“Sally Elphick is also a sensational addition to Council as her involvement with the Wonthella Progress Association means she is not only in tune with her wards’ ratepayers, but also is well aware of how Council functions.”

Councillor Neil McIlwaine was also elected as Deputy Mayor by his fellow Councillors for a fourth consecutive term.

“Councillor McIlwaine continues to make significant contributions to our community as Deputy Mayor and he is very well respected by Council,” Mayor Van Styn said.

“I would like to thank those who took the time to vote in the local election and to have a say on a strong Council that represents the voice of the people.”