A Memorable Final Council of the Triennium
Last Thursday was the final Council meeting of the triennium, and it had a different agenda than usual. It saw five Elected Members and Mayor Helen Worboys signing off and saying goodbye to Council. The meeting was full of reflection and gratitude, with valedictorian speeches in order from Cr Lara Blackmore, Cr Stuart Campbell, Cr Kerry Quigley, Cr Fiona Underwood, Cr Steve Bielski, and Mayor Helen Worboys.
With current local elections voting closing this week (11 October), many Elected Members are standing down from their Council duties. The valedictorian speeches of those who were saying goodbye to Council were reflective, emotional and straight from the heart - spoken to an audience of whānau, friends, the community and MDC staff.
Cr Lara Blackmore spoke first, reflecting on her time with colleagues, the “cast of characters” and their achievements together. Cr Stuart Campbell followed, cherishing his nine years of service, following in the footsteps of his father, a former Councillor, and his grandfather, a former Mayor of Feilding. Cr Kerry Quigley shared some laughter, nostalgia and appreciation for the journey and his Council family. Cr Fiona Underwood reflected on her advocacy for ratepayers and the importance of “strong, fair leadership”. Cr Steve Bielski highlighted his passion for rural communities and promising his continued involvement.
Mayor Helen Worboys concluded the valedictorian speeches, humbled that her Auckland whānau had made a surprise appearance, “I think they are here to make sure I actually leave” she laughed. She spoke on her time before Council, her 20 years of employment at Feilding Promotions, and her desire for Council to value and “build pride” in our District. Ever since standing for Mayor in 2016, she has supported localism, with her first campaign tagline being “Putting community back into Council”. Reflecting on the last nine years, the hard times, and the great successes, she enjoyed the respectful debate around the Council table and the connections she has made within the community.
There was a reoccurring theme throughout the speeches, thanking MDC staff and the Executive Leadership Team who supported them. MDC reflects the sentiment and extends their gratitude to each Elected Member and Mayor Helen, for their hard work and achievements. To stand as an Elected Member for Council is to be driven and community oriented. It’s no easy task and has been a lifelong passion and commitment for many. Council sincerely wishes each Elected Member, and our Mayor, all the best in their future endeavours.
Cr Lara Blackmore with Mayor Helen Worboys at the final Council meeting.
Cr Stuart Campbell with Mayor Helen Worboys at the final Council meeting.
Cr Kerry Quigley with Mayor Helen Worboys at the final Council meeting.
Cr Fiona Underwood with Mayor Helen Worboys at the final Council meeting.
Cr Steve Bielski with Mayor Helen Worboys at the final Council meeting.
All of Council together at the final Council meeting.