FRANKSTON mayor Kris Bolam says he is “uncomfortable” about an upcoming ratepayer-funded trip to Canberra.
The trip, scheduled for 25-26 August, has been facilitated by the Committee For Frankston and Mornington Peninsula. Bolam said he is cautious about council’s ties to the advocacy group.
“I am not comfortable participating in a delegation led by what is, in effect, a lobbyist organisation,” Bolam said. “I believe the city council should maintain an appropriate and professional distance from special interest groups to ensure impartial decision-making.
“Although I have reservations about the optics, as mayor I remain committed to respecting the majority view of the city council. I also acknowledge the efforts of Jodie Belyea in arranging several meetings with senior politicians, and will therefore attend – albeit reluctantly.”
Frankston Council is currently a member of the Committee for Frankston and Mornington Peninsula at the highest tier, paying about $15,000 per year.
In 2021 Frankston Council ceased its membership with the Committee for Greater Frankston, only becoming a member again after the Committee for Greater Frankston merged with the Committee for the Mornington Peninsula in 2023.
The interstate trip comes amid growing tensions between Frankston Council and the Mornington Peninsula Shire.
The Times understands that a proposal for a partnership between Frankston Council, the Mornington Peninsula Shire, and Kingston Council was recently rejected by the Shire – the decision has caused issues between Frankston Council and the Shire behind closed doors.
Frankston councillors voted to send Bolam to Canberra at their most recent public meeting. The mayor was the only councillor who did not vote in favour of the trip.
Attendees on the trip are scheduled to meet with federal minister Clare O’Neil, and shadow ministers Andrew Bragg, Bridget McKenzie, Anne Ruston, and Angie Bell.
Cr Nathan Butler told the mayor at last week’s council meeting that “after such a great advocacy campaign, where we’ve secured over $60 million in federal government funding, who better to head back up there than yourself to continue beating the drum for Frankston.”
Shire mayor Anthony Marsh and CEO Mark Stoermer are scheduled to attend the Canberra meetings. Marsh said improved public transport and infrastructure, and federal government support for housing would be raised as the shire currently received “very little support from the state government”.
“It’s 24 hours effectively to fly in and fly out and meet as many ministers and members of the opposition as possible and hopefully advocate for the region,” Marsh said.
Speaking favourably of the trip at the shire’s most recent meeting was deputy mayor Cr Paul Pingiaro, who said “this is not a junket” but a worthwhile visit focused on delivering tangible benefits for the community.
Cr David Gill also supported it – he noted while “we do draw a line and fairly combative line with overseas travel,” he applauded the mayor and any others joining him as “every case should be supported and encouraged as much as possible, not just some”.
In June, Frankston councillors Kris Bolam, Sue Baker, and Brad Hill travelled to Canberra to attend the 2025 Australian Local Government Association National General Assembly.
With Brendan Rees