One of the Greatest Privileges of Serving as Mayor.

Cr Cox and I representing Whittlesea City Council at the last City of Whittlesea Australian Citizenship Ceremony.

One of the greatest privileges I have in serving as Mayor and as a Councillor for our remarkable city is the opportunity to work alongside a Council comprised of individuals with a rich diversity of skills, lived experience, and professional backgrounds. Despite our varied journeys, we are united by a single, unwavering commitment to act deliberately, responsibly, and in good faith to deliver the best possible outcomes for the people of the City of Whittlesea.

Since becoming Mayor, I have had the honour of attending many community events, initiatives, and milestone celebrations often alongside my fellow Councillors. These events reflect the spirit, strength, and shared achievements of our vibrant and diverse community. In every interaction, I see firsthand the genuine care our Councillors bring to their role and the values that guide their service.

At Whittlesea, the strength of our local democracy lies in the respectful exchange of ideas, the diversity of constructive views, and the sincere interest each Councillor brings to the issues that matter most to our residents. I am proud to stand alongside Councillors who tirelessly champion causes they believe will make a real and lasting difference to the lives of those we serve. Whether it be community safety, local infrastructure, economic development, illegal rubbish dumping, environmental protection, or social equity each campaign undertaken reflects a deep sense of duty, thoughtful advocacy, and meaningful community engagement.

I want to publicly express my full support for my fellow Councillors in the work they do and the causes they pursue. Their dedication, integrity, and commitment to good governance are evident in every decision, every debate, and every step taken toward building a better future for Whittlesea.

Unlike some councils I have observed where decision making can be clouded by political divisions, self interest, tall poppy, undermining or individual ego, the Whittlesea City Council is distinct. We are a collective of councillors committed to respectful collaboration, guided by principles of transparency, accountability, and purpose. The culture we have nurtured between councillors and our highly professional Council officers is one of mutual respect, shared responsibility, and relentless focus on delivering outcomes that are in the best interests of our entire municipality.

As Mayor, I thrive in this environment. I am deeply proud to lead a Council that operates with professionalism, humility, and integrity and above all, one that remains grounded in its duty to the people of Whittlesea, both now and for generations to come.