Cook Shire Mayor Peter Scott (right) was recognised for 20 years of service at the LGAQ annual conference. Photo: allgood Media.
Soon-to-retire Cook Shire Mayor Peter Scott’s 20 years of service to local government was recognised by hundreds of peers at the annual Local Government Association of Queensland conference in Gladstone last week.
Cr Scott has served as a Councillor since 2004, and as Mayor since 2008, making him one of the longest-standing mayors in Cook Shire history, but will not be standing for re-election in 2024.
“I’ve got mixed emotions, because I feel I’ve never been more valuable to my community than I am now with my experience, connections and networks,” Cr Scott said of his upcoming retirement.
“But I’ve got to be honest with myself, I’ve done 20 years in local government, 30 years in Cooktown, 40 years with my beautiful wife and I’m 70 years old – it’s time to focus on spending time with my wife, my children and grandchildren.”
Cr Scott was recognised with a 20-year service award at a special dinner during the week-long annual conference, which is attended by most local governments in Queensland.
“I’m comfortable that I’m leaving the Council in good shape, we have a great executive leadership team, staff and strong financial position and some really good people putting their hands up to come on board as councillors in the local government election in March,” Cr Scott said.
“Serving as Mayor has been a privilege, a massive learning curve and a lot of fun and I’ve met some great people along the way.”
Cr Scott and his wife Sayah plan to stay in Cooktown and enjoy their retirement with family.
