There is an increased focus on the seat of Bass in the lead up to the State Election and Bass Coast Shire Council is making the most of every opportunity to have their key priorities heard.

Council has a priority list identifying the top ten needs and concerns of the community. The list has been shared with government ministers, shadow ministers and elected representatives, and Council has been meeting with ministers to discuss the community’s priorities relevant to their portfolios and interests.

Recently, Deputy Mayor, Cr Brett Tessari, CEO Paul Buckley PSM and Manager Strategy and Growth, Jodi Kennedy, met with the Victorian Treasurer and Minister of Roads and Transport. On the same Day, Cr Larke and Manager Advocacy and Engagement, Christian Stefani, met with Minister for Tourism and Events and the Victorian Tourism Industry Council.

The following day, Bass Coast Shire Mayor, Cr Pamela Rothfield along with Cr Whelan, Cr Fullarton, CEO Paul Buckley PSM and Manager Sustainable Environment, Deirdre Griepsma, met with the Minister for Environment in Cowes to discuss and demonstrate firsthand the effects of erosion in Cowes and Cowes East.

The Mayor explained that the meetings are pivotal to communicating the community’s needs and pushing Bass Coast to the forefront of funding opportunities.

“This week we will talk with senior advisors to Minister for Tourism to explain that the environment is the backbone of our visitor economy and then on to the Shadow Minster for Environment to discuss our concerns around erosion.”

“During these meetings we are driving home the necessity of investment in Bass Coast.”

“We are the third fastest growing economy in the state, and the second most dependent on tourism, behind Uluru.”

“Enabling our community to thrive and survive our growing economy and population, as well as protecting our unique and precious environment, is at the forefront of all of our priorities and conversations.”

To read more about Council’s advocacy priorities, visit Council’s website basscoast.vic.gov.au/Advocacy