CORANGAMITE Shire mayor Matt Makin will not renominate for this year’s council election.
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Cr Makin said that after eight years as a councillor, it was time to move on.
He said an important factor in making his decision was that he wanted to spend more time with his family.
“I’ve put my heart and soul into this organisation, but it’s time to move on and for new ideas,” he said. “I’ve decided after much consideration I won’t be standing again.”
Cr Makin said he had few plans to pursue a career in politics but he wouldn’t rule it out for down the track.
“I’ll certainly keep my eye out for future opportunities but I’m not looking at this point. I’ve certainly learnt a lot about politics while on council.”
Cr Makin said the decision was difficult but he was looking forward to spending more time with his young family.
“I guess there is a sense that I’m missing out on seeing my children grow up.
“An example is my eldest son is five. He has learnt to ride a bike and I’ve had nothing to do with that. I’ll be going back to working as a vet full-time.” Cr Makin said he was confident he was leaving the shire in a good position.
“I’ve put an enormous amount of effort and time in and I guess others will be the judge on how I’ve done. I’m confident there is a bright future for Corangamite Shire. It’s got great people. It’s financially sound.
“I’m looking forward to spending more time with my family and seeing the organisation progress.”
Cr Makin is the chair of the Great South Coast Group and says he plans to stay involved in an independent capacity.
He was first elected to council in 2002 and has represented the south-west ward. In 2009 he was made mayor and was re-elected for a third term as mayor last December.
