By Rose Astley
All seven of Noosa’s councillors have been officially sworn in by Council CEO Brett de Chastel.
Mr de Chastel said he applauded those who put their hand up to become councillors, announcing it is a very difficult task.
“Elections are in interesting thing, I always have to pay tribute to people who put their hand up for election, whether you’re successful or otherwise, it’s a very difficult thing to put yourselves out there for public comment and to have to work through that process.
“I mentioned to the council in the last couple of days, it’s a real roller coaster that process to go through the election.
“It’s like a race to the start line, because that’s what today is, the start line for the next four years,” Mr de Chastel said.
Mayor Clare Stewart was the first to take the declaration.
“It is an immense personal and family honour to be here, the greatest of privileges to serve the community of the Noosa Shire,” Cr Stewart said.
“First, I’d like to take the opportunity to congratulate returning and new councillors, and an occasion to acknowledge and share out respective and complementary responsibilities with Noosa Shire Council leaders and personale, and particularly our CEO Brett de Chastel.
“Importantly and firstly, our elders and leaders past and present, and extend our appreciation to all who have served our shire.
“This is an occasion to pay tribute to outgoing mayor of our Shire, Mr Tony Wellington and outgoing councillors, for their service and their commitment.
Cr Stewart continued to acknowledge the Noosa Shire and the richness and diversity the region has on offer.
“I am also particularly grateful to all in our community who supported me in the mayoral process, and for those who did not, I need to emphasise that as mayor and councillors, our focus is to engage all and serve all in our endeavour to be a flourishing, whole and integrated community.
“This is an absolute priority, to be present, transparent, and accountable for all.
Cr Stewart then turned her attention to the question of ‘what now’ during the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We, like so many other elected representatives are called to step up and step out, and as we do all we can with the people and the authority we possess.
“To answer the question ‘what now?’ is to first say we address the crisis in dialogue, connection, compassion, truth, service.
“Covid-19 is a priority, but so too are the responsibilities we have towards the Shire more generally.
“My commitment will continue to be underpinned by transparency and accountability,” Cr Stewart said.
