Veteran journalist and author Charles Wooley has addressed the public for the first time since being elected Hobart’s next lord mayor, securing the position with 55 per cent of the vote. During his inaugural press conference on Thursday, the mayor-elect clarified the meaning behind his campaign slogan, "Hobart for Hobartians."
Mr. Wooley explained that the phrase was inspired by a visit to Barcelona, where he encountered a similar sentiment in the office of the city's first female mayor: "Never forget for whom we run this city." He emphasized that he views his role as a representative of the public to the council, rather than as a "boss," and expressed a desire to move past the "vitriolic" atmosphere that has characterized the council in recent years.
Policy Goals and Council Dynamics
Looking ahead to his four-year term, Mr. Wooley identified capping council rates as a primary policy goal, floating the idea of a $200 rate cut for residents to stimulate local spending. He also signaled support for council amalgamations and a review of local government conduct legislation.
When questioned about the council's composition, which appears likely to include only one female councillor, Mr. Wooley remarked that it was "extraordinary" that women did not vote for women. As counting continues, incumbent Louise Elliot remains the only woman currently positioned in the top nine for councillor seats.
The election results saw several other mayoral changes across Tasmania, with incumbents in Burnie, Clarence, the West Coast, and the Derwent Valley failing to retain their seats. Outgoing mayors, including Burnie’s Teeny Brumby and Clarence’s Brendan Blomeley, noted the increasingly hostile environment in which local elections are now contested.
