Moyoral race hots up

By BEN CAMERON

CENTRAL Ward councillor George Blenkhorn could be tempted at having another tilt at becoming the next Cardinia Shire mayor, with the right amount of support.
The Pakenham Gazette revealed last week there had been public support for Ranges Ward councillor Leticia Wilmot from fellow ward councillor Tania Baxer while Cr Brett Owen was pushing for a female mayor.
However, Cr Blenkhorn, a former mayor himself, echoed the current mayor Graeme Moore’s sentiments that suitability was the most important factor for picking a new leader.
“It would be nice to see it happen on merit, rather than gender,” he said.
“It (gender) shouldn’t be part of the decision.
“It was a very rewarding experience (being mayor), you learn how government operates.
“I would be tempted (to run for mayor), with sufficient support.”
Central Ward Cr Jodie Owen said she was no chance but would vote for a councillor who put duty ahead of ego.
“I will base my vote on who is the person who will provide Cardinia Shire with the best leadership, and can demonstrate they are in the position for the betterment of Cardinia not their individual ego or agenda,” she said.
“I will not be voting based on who thinks they have a right or they perceive it is their time.
“The role of mayor is a very important one, and being a growing community we need someone who will devote to the role 100 per cent and who has the skills to deal with the complex issues which arise.”
Port Ward Cr David Young said he would not put his hand up but had a soft spot for a Central Ward councillor taking the job.
“The fact that we’ve had a mayor from the Port ward, and the Ranges ward, and not the Central ward yet, I may take that into consideration,” he said.
A new mayor will be elected at a stuatory meeting on 10 November.