Jennifer Pittorino
Councillor Matt Tyler has been elected as mayor of Hobsons Bay for the next 12 months.
The Wetlands Ward councillor was promoted from his 2022-23 position as councillor at a council meeting on Friday, November 10.
Cr Tyler beat councillor Pamela Sutton-Legaud for the mayoral position, receiving the majority of votes, 4-3.
This is Cr Tyler’s first mayoral term. He has served on council for three years, having first been elected in 2020.
He said he is honoured to be elected mayor of an “amazing” community.
“I’m grateful to my councillor colleagues and also to so many people who have got in touch with warm messages of congratulations. I’m excited about getting stuck into the year ahead,” he said.
In the year ahead Cr Tyler said he is focused on getting results for the community.
“Many folks, residents and businesses are doing it tough,” he said.
“While council doesn’t have access to some of the big levers such as supports to get people back into work, which is led by the federal government, the little things add up.
“I’m keen to see practical work prioritised that can make life a little easier for people, such as ongoing improvements to council’s customer service.
“Council can also make an important contribution by lifting people’s spirits, facilitating connection and inclusion, as well as through our advocacy.”
In the next coming weeks, Cr Tyler said he will have more share in regards to his mayoral program.
“I’ll listen, celebrate so many folks and organisations that make our community great, and do my best to deliver an agenda that makes our community even better.”
Cr Tony Briffa congratulated the new mayor, welcoming him to the position.
“You are going to be a sensational mayor, you live by your values which are beautiful,” she said.
Cr Sutton-Legaud was elected deputy mayor for 2023-24.
“I am delighted to be the deputy mayor, I think it will be an exciting year,” said Cr Sutton-Legaud.
“I hope members of the community know they can call on me and I will listen to them.”
