30 July, 2024 - Cr Geoff Lovett - The Maryborough Advertiser

Published on 30 July 2024

In 1993, Jeff Kennet sacked all 210 Victorian councils, re-arranged historic boundaries and created 78 (later 79) new bodies.

Central Goldfields Shire came into existence being comprised of the former City of Maryborough, Tullaroop Shire (less Eddington district), Talbot – district of Talbot/Clunes, Dunolly, Bealiba, Moliagul district and Shire of Bet Bet.

The rationale for larger councils was to give economy of scale financially. However, politics intervened. Central Goldfields Shire has always suffered from low population that is always a problem when balancing expenditure with income. Our population is simply too small, with growth predictions low.

I worry about the future of local government, due to what I consider ‘idiot decisions’ being made by councils.

Local government is constantly ridiculed and lampooned in newspapers.

Councils make decisions that have nothing to do with roads, rates, rubbish: banning nuclear submarines, flying flags of foreign nations, even demanding residents become vegan.

We have seen one council rename itself at enormous cost to ratepayers, due to perceived historical injustices. If councils follow this path, it is a slippery slope, and who knows where it will end!

As I exit stage left it is my hope that council get back to basics and make decisions based on what is best for our community, we act for ‘People not Customers’.

If councils don’t change, I firmly believe the State Government will step in and unilaterally create super councils throughout regional Victoria and that would be disastrous.

Cr Geoff Lovett