A devoted leader in the local community Mayor Irene Grant has received two awards recognising her excellent service in local government.
Presented at a the Municipal Association of Victoria Councillor Service Awards ceremony Cr Grant received a 10-year service award and a Mayor Emeritus Award.
Cr Grant told the Wangaratta Chronicle that it was a real honour to be recognised by the sector for her involvement in local government and In particular the honour of Mayor Emeritus.
"Local government has been for me an abiding interest which began when I worked at the Chronicle, and I reported on the council meetings, though much has changed since that time, and in a positive way, I have continued my interest in the processes of council," she said.
Looking at the highlights, Cr Grant said her involvement in local government and with the Rural City of Wangaratta has been over a long period of time and it was difficult to focus on specific projects.
However, she viewed some of the significant achievements were the Big W development, the expansion of the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre, the expansion of the library into the old TAFE building, the development of the Glenrowan Masterplan (and finally seeing the interpretive centre coming to fruition), the adoption of a new waste and recycling service (including the organics process) and the initial development of Wangaratta performing arts complex, rural town and amenity planning as well.
"More recently, the focus has been on the ongoing development of residential land in the south and west of Wangaratta," she said.
"Planning and planning decisions remain one of the more challenging elements and making the right decision is always a challenge."
She reflected on one of her most rewarding experiences in her time in council, and that was being appointed as one of the three administrators when the council was unfortunately dismissed in 2013.
"Being an administrator gave me a completely different perspective on the role of council, and of course the importance of strong local governance to achieve the wellbeing and prosperity of the community," she said.
"Another highlight was being appointed the chair of the Australian Regional Cities Group."
Cr Grant said council plays a vital role in making “things better” in the community.
"Council's focus should always be on the basics such the maintenance of roads and infrastructure, general amenity around parks and gardens and sporting facilities, and of course the connection that comes with facilities like the library, the sports and aquatic centre, the performing arts complex and gallery and even the saleyards," she said.
"These facilities bring our community together, it's so important."
MAV president Jennifer Anderson said the awards highlight the vital role councillors play in local democracy and community wellbeing.
“Being a councillor is a demanding role, often carried out alongside work and family commitments," Cr Anderson said.
"Acknowledging these milestones is vital - they represent years of leadership, service and passion for community.”