Ablett returns in landslide

By BRIDGET COOK
BALLA Balla Ward residents have again placed their trust in Geoff Ablett to represent them on the City of Casey council.
In a landslide victory, Cr Ablett was re-elected as the councillor for Balla Balla Ward with more than 50 per cent of the first preference votes in a field of four candidates.
Gary Lambert came in second and Derek Mosely third.
Cr Ablett said he wanted to thank all the residents of Balla Balla for re-electing him.
“It has been a long, tough campaign, but to get the support of so many votes from the residents of Balla Balla makes me feel deeply grateful and humbled,” he said.
“It’s hard for me to put my appreciation in words.
“Throughout the years, I have worked hard to ensure that the Balla Balla Ward has received a record amount of $74 million of funding to improve the services, infrastructure and facilities which have made our local communities a great place to live, work and raise a family.
“Your enormous support to see me re-elected as your local councillor gives me greater motivation to make a positive difference for the local community.”
Mr Mosely congratulated Cr Ablett on his win.
“I expected the incumbent to return, but it didn’t stop me from campaigning,” he said.
“I’ll be ready to run again in the next election.
“So anyone who has been in contact with me, I will remember those issues that I heard and in the future if I’m elected I’ll promote those problems residents have in the southern part of Casey.”