Social Distancing a Priority at Council Swearing-In Ceremony

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) will follow strict limits on public gatherings when the new Council is sworn-in during a two-hour ceremony from 11.00 am, Thursday 16 April 2020.

TRC Chief Executive Officer, Mr Brian Pidgeon said the rich tradition would continue with a swearing-in ceremony adapted to the current health directives in response to the Coronavirus Pandemic.

“Social distancing will be a priority with the Mayor and ten Councillors being sworn-in separately at 10-minute intervals,” Mr Pidgeon said.

“While the ceremony will take a lot longer, and sadly won’t be the community celebration as in previous years, the importance of stopping the spread and protecting others is a priority.

“The swearing-in of the Mayor and each Councillor will be live-streamed through Council’s webpage, Facebook and YouTube platforms, to allow the community to witness this historic moment.

“The swearing-in ceremony marks the beginning of the Council term with the newly elected Mayor and Councillors making the declaration of office.

“The declaration allows a Councillor to act in the office and must be made within one month of election or appointment.

“This will be an important term of office for the Toowoomba Regional Council, and the Mayor and Councillors are keen to get to work making strategic decisions that will lead to the growth of our Region.

“The swearing-in of Councillors is an important first step for the new Council, as is the safety of our community.”

To view the live-stream of the Council’s swearing-in ceremony visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/news.

For more information about the newly elected Mayor and Councillors go to http://www.tr.qld.gov.au/about-council/councillors-meetings/introducing-councillors