By Bonny Burrows

Newly-elected Cardinia Shire Mayor Collin Ross is hoping to build people’s connection with the council during his 12-month term.
The Central Ward councillor was appointed as mayor on 13 November and for the next 12 months is being supported by his predecessor and deputy mayor Brett Owen.
This year marks the popular Central Ward councillor’s 10th year in the council, and his first as mayor.
The Pakenham resident of 20 years and father of four described his excitement at his appointment as that of “a Richmond supporter in Grand Final week”.
His first duties as mayor involved attending the The Walk Against Violence, held on White Ribbon Day.
As a father, husband and White Ribbon Ambassador, the mayor is particularly passionate about ending family violence.
“This stuff does happen and people need to speak out against it,” he said.
Cr Ross said he was looking forward to working with Deputy Mayor Brett Owen and his fellow councillors over the next year and said he hoped to do his community proud.