Golden Plains Shire Councillors have elected their leader for 2024-2025, with Cr Sarah Hayden to serve as Mayor for the first year of the new Council term.
Council decided not to elect a Deputy Mayor this year.
In taking to the chair as the new Mayor, Cr Sarah Hayden thanked her fellow Councillors for placing their confidence in her to lead Golden Plains Shire Council as Mayor for the next 12 months.
“I am honoured and profoundly grateful to my fellow Councillors for giving me this opportunity. This role is not about me or one individual, it is about collaboration, teamwork and shared visions for our community’s future. Serving as Mayor is a privilege and I am committed to listening, engaging and advocating for the needs of our community,” Cr Hayden said.
“As Mayor, my priority will be to ensure that every voice in our community is heard and respected. Whether they live in the heart of our own towns or in our more rural areas, our community’s concerns, aspirations and hopes matter. We have a big responsibility ahead of us and our community expects strong and effective representation, and we can’t lose sight of that,” she said.
“I am committed to fostering a spirit of openness and accountability, ensuring that we remain a Council of the people and for the people. We have exciting opportunities ahead and we also face challenges that require thoughtful, proactive and united responses. Together, we will focus on creating sustainable growth, enhancing local infrastructure, supporting small businesses and ensuring that our community remains vibrant, inclusive and welcoming for all.
“To outgoing Mayor, Cr Brett Cunningham, thank you for your leadership, dedication and the hard work you have invested in this role.”
Chief Executive Officer, Shane Walden congratulated Cr Hayden and said he looked forward to working with the new Councillors during this exciting period for Golden Plains Shire as Council prepares the Council Plan 2025-2029.
