Geoff Ablett is the new Balla Balla Ward councillor. 24464
By Bridget Brady
COMMUNITY radio station manager and teacher Geoff Ablett has won the sole council position for the Balla Balla Ward.
The former VFL/AFL player was the first confirmed City of Casey councillor for the 2008 election.
Mr Ablett easily won the position, with 6471 votes, from the only other candidate Ray Wilkinson, with 2918 votes.
Mr Ablett said he was excited that residents elected a “new and fresh” council.
“I think the people of Casey have sent a clear message that they want to give their councillors the opportunity to work together and listen to the community.
“Everyone is aware of what the last 12 months have been like on council and this is an opportunity for a fresh start.”
Mr Ablett said he would scale down his teaching commitments from next year and looked forward to working with Mr Wilkinson.
Mr Ablett said he hoped the new councillors could get some new projects under way quickly.
He was keen to see his station, Casey Radio 3SERFM, used as a communication tool between councillors and the public.
“I would like to see the station used to promote community events, individuals and groups and get councillors coming onto the station and talking to the people.”
One of the challenges the coastal villages faced was to strike the perfect balance between tourism and environmental conservation, Mr Ablett said.
