By Aneeka Simonis and Victoria Stone-Meadows
The City of Casey’s grand old man said he was disappointed he would not be heading into his eight term on council after losing his long reign to a fresh-faced newcomer.
Former councillor Mick Morland, who’s served seven terms since beginning in 1992, got more votes than his newly elected Edrington Ward replacement, Timothy Jackson, but lost out under the preference system.
He secured 4692 primary votes, almost double the 2380 primary votes scored by Cr Jackson.
“When you put your hand up, there’s always a chance of losing. Ten candidates went for it … it was disappointing to lose on preference voting,” he said.
“I was well above the person who took my spot, but that’s the system we live by, so I accept what’s happened and wish the City of Casey the best.”
Mr Morland was first elected in the early 90s when the region was represented by the former City of Berwick.
He held his position for seven terms, or 24 years, making him the longest serving City of Casey Councillor behind Wayne Smith who was re-elected to serve another term on the River Gum Ward.
“I was there a long time. I started with black hair and a little moustache. Now I’ve got white hair and a big moustache,” he laughed.
Newcomer Cr Jackson said he was pleased to take out one of the two Edrington Ward seats after his first crack at council.
“I look forward to filling Mick’s shoes and bringing some new perspective and ideas to council,” he said.
He will serve at the Edrington Ward with re-elected incumbent Susan Serey.
Seven of the 11 incumbent City of Casey councillors retained their positions in the weekend election.
City of Casey Mayor and incumbent councillor for Springfield Ward Sam Aziz was returned to council.
Rex Flannery was the second successful candidate elected for Springfield Ward, and came second to Cr Aziz with less than 1000 votes separating them.
Cr Flannery replaces former councillor Louise Berkelmans.
Amanda Stapledon has been returned to council to represent Mayfield Ward along with Steve Beardon who trailed Cr Stapledon by just 401 votes after preference distribution.
Rise Up Australia Party’s Rosalie Crestani has been voted back into council in the Four Oaks Ward, but former councillor Rafal Kaplon has lost his seat to new face Milla Gilich.
River Gum Ward will have no change in representation with both Wayne Smith and Damien Rosario voted back into council while Geoff Ablett will continue representing the Balla Balla Ward after taking more than 50 per cent of the vote for the sole seat.
Councillors for the 2016- 2020 council term will be declared on Wednesday 2 November 2016 at the Council Chambers in Narre Warren.
