Bundaberg Now spoke to Cr Scott Rowleson ahead of his retirement from local government after four years as a Bundaberg Regional Councillor.
While Scott Rowleson has been a Councillor for only one term, you could say he was “born for the role”.
Scott’s father Danny was one of the original Councillors when Bundaberg Regional Council was formed in 2008, retiring in 2016.
Scott then took over as Councillor for the same division covering Burnett Heads, Rubyanna, Mon Repos, Qunaba, Woongarra, Windermere and Elliott Heads, along with Innes Park and Coral Cove for the first time.
Love of community main motivator
However, it was his love of his community that was his main motivator.
“I have always had a passion for community service and a desire to see my local communities move forward,” Scott said.
There have been many highlights during Scott’s time at Council.
“Seeing the completion of the Rubyanna Wastewater treatment plant is a major step forward for our region.
“The construction and completion of the Burnett Heads streetscape and adjacent projects and Elliott Heads Foreshore projects have also been wonderful to be part of.”
Scott believes making the decision to support redevelopment of the land attached to the Airport has also been a “game changer” for services to residents.
“The new aeromedical precinct would not have happened without our combined support.”
Scott’s legacy will be felt for many years to come.
“I’m proud of the fact that I was the councillor who finally delivered sewer to the coastal community of Burnett Heads and after more than a decade delay, connected the dry sewer at Innes Park,” he said.
“The installation of the region’s first electric vehicle fast-charging station not on the Bruce Highway is also something that will have ramifications for the future.”
The main reason for Scott not contesting the next election can be summed up with one word – family.
Putting family first
“This job is all encompassing and with my two young kids, spending quality time with them can be difficult. I will always put my family first,” he said.
“I have made some good contributions to this community and I am happy for someone else to take it on now.”
Scott joked that he is not sure what he’ll be doing next.
“If anyone wants to offer me a job, then let’s talk.”
Scott was full of praise and thanks for those who have supported him in his time as a Councillor.
“I’d like to thank everyone in my division who supported me and the councillors who supported me,” he said.
“Thanks to the Mayor for giving me advice when I needed it.
“I would like to thank the fantastic Waste and Recycling and the Animal management teams as well.
“Finally, my family, their support is the most important.”
Scott had some timely advice for those who will be running for Council in the upcoming election.
“I’d like to wish the candidates of division six and others all the best,” he said.
“You need to be putting yourself forward for election for the right reasons: no self-serving, no chips on the shoulder and you must leave your ego at the door.
“You are only one councillor and one vote. When it comes to the crunch if you cannot work as part of a team you will not serve your division or region properly. Best of luck.”
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