Mayors Message

By Cr Clare Le Serve

Over the past week, I've had the privilege of meeting with various people and organisations, and one resounding theme has emerged: the profound love people have for living here. Why would you live anywhere else? Our community offers the perfect blend of beach and country living, providing the best of both worlds.

I am thrilled to share that we have some exciting new projects up on Engage Bass Coast including a roads and asset management plan that we are seeking feedback on. Please get involved and have your say.

We are also seeking your thoughts on what the future of Graydens Reserve could look like. This is a much-loved community space in Newhaven and we are planning future upgrades of the area. 

We are continuing to enjoy further attraction from organisations recognising our beautiful area with Council partnering with the iconic brand Ripcurl for a two-year sponsorship for stand-up paddleboarding as well as future surfing competitions, an exciting addition to our events calendar. This initiative promises to attract enthusiasts and visitors, further boosting our local tourism and showcasing the natural beauty of our coastal environment.

During my visits, I was particularly moved by the work being done at Mitchell House, where they have been nurturing and empowering migrants moving into our region. Their dedication to caring for and supporting new community members is truly commendable.

Last week, I had the honour of speaking at the Diversity and Inclusion breakfast hosted by the Wonthaggi Rotary Club. Maddy Hartford and I discussed the incredible contributions of our migrant and refugee community. It was heartwarming to hear how friendly and inclusive our region is perceived, and this is something we can all be proud of.

I also attended the Surf Life Saving Club presentation at Woolamai Beach, where I was impressed by the dedication of the volunteers, particularly the younger members who make up around 50 per cent of the team. This is a testament to the spirit of our youth and their commitment to community service. A special thanks to Jason Close, President of the Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club for the invitation as well as to all the amazing people attending and sponsoring the club. Their Nippers program, with its 400 participants, is another example of how Bass Coast punches above its weight, reflecting our community's strong commitment to action and engagement.

As we approach the council elections, I encourage everyone to consider getting involved. We need more representation from women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and younger individuals. Your participation is vital to ensuring our council reflects the diversity and dynamism of our community. Please take advantage of the upcoming training and information sessions to learn more about how you can make a difference.

Thank you for your ongoing support and for making Bass Coast such a wonderful place to live. Together, let's continue to build a vibrant, inclusive, and thriving community.