Thursday, 19 October 2023

 Bev McARTHUR (Western Victoria) (10:00): Today I would like to pay tribute to Corangamite shire mayor Ruth Gstrein, who was recognised at the Municipal Association of Victoria annual conference for her 20 years of dedication. She received the Councillor Service Award. I served on council with Cr Gstrein, and I can attest to her great contribution to the Shire of Corangamite and to the people of Corangamite. She has worked diligently over 20 years to ensure that the right thing is done for all constituents. She was a central ward councillor and was first elected in 2002 and re-elected in 2004, 2008, 2012, 2016 and 2020, and she has served two three-year stints as mayor, between 2007 and 2009 and then again from 2020. She also served on the Municipal Association of Victoria board as a director for 10 years, including as deputy president rural. Cr Gstrein is a lifelong servant to the people of Corangamite and the Shire of Corangamite, and I congratulate her on her award and wish her well in the future.