Mayor's Message

By Cr Clare Le Serve

Hello Bass Coast

What a week it’s been. Firstly I’d like to thank my family, friends, colleagues and community for coming along to celebrate International Women’s Day last Friday at Silverwater Resort in San Remo. It was a brilliant day to inspire inclusivity and we enjoyed hearing from Olympic swimmer Nicole Livingston OAM and community sportswomen about how we can continue to shape the world into a more inclusive space for all genders.

That same morning I’d been on Phillip Island having a tour of The Block production. It’s certainly shining a great spotlight onto our beautiful region and I’ve heard so many positive reports from local businesses who are benefitting from having this major television production here – from tradies, cafes, accommodation providers and many more. 

Now more than ever we need to continue to shine light on local businesses. Some members of our community are still cleaning up post the February storm event so I really want to highlight the importance of everyone using local businesses where possible for trades entertainment and all your shopping. It can be very difficult and lonely running a small business but ongoing support from community makes it a bit easier. Please check out our Shop Eat Love Local campaigns to see how you can get involved in promoting and supporting our local businesses. 

Over the last week, we had several events around the region, including the Cowes Car Show, which was a display of absolute colourful nostalgia. Well done to the organisers! 

On the topic of cars, I was delighted to speak at the Totally Renewable Tenby event which had a focus on the way we can sustainably move forward with electric vehicles. We discussed how this transition can progress in a collaborative manner and the importance of fostering a supportive infrastructure to help this occur. Bass Coast are leading the way in Victoria to reduce carbon footprints through a range of programs. We are putting in place practical steps towards a cleaner and greener municipality.

Knowing it was a long weekend and a heatwave, you may have noticed additional signage and communications around beach safety. This will continue.

With the Easter period not that far away you may notice ramped up campaigns about how to stay safe at the beach and around heat health. I’d like to thank all our partners, including Phillip Island Nature Parks, Parks Victoria, Life Saving Victoria, other Council’s and of course media and community organisations and individuals for helping spread the word on these important issues.

Together, let’s ensure everyone can enjoy their days away and go home with lovely memories for generations to come. 

Have a lovely week. If you have any questions, please just drop me a line.