Albany Mayor Dennis Wellington to call time after 12 years in top job

Albany will have a new mayor by the end of the year following an announcement by Dennis Wellington that will he will not seek re-election in October. Mr Wellington told councillors on Tuesday he would be stepping away from the role he has held since 2011 at this year’s ordinary election. He told the Advertiser ongoing back issues made it difficult for him to see himself “surviving” another four year term as mayor leading into Albany’s bicentenary. “By the time I finished another stint I’d be 78 and I think that’s too hold to handle the bicentenary,” he said. Mr Wellington was first elected to the City’s council in 2001 and spent four years as deputy mayor from 2007 to 2011 prior to his successful campaign for the top job. He said he was proud of the work he had done over his three terms as mayor, including being able to significantly reduce the City’s debt while continuing to deliver projects. The ongoing development of the City’s sporting facilities, completion of the skate park, work starting on the motorplex and funding being secured for the surf reef were among the projects highlighted by Mr Wellington as he reflected on his time as mayor. He also spoke about the importance of the National Anzac Centre helping to solidify the city’s legacy as the “home of the Anzacs” and how investment in new hotels was a sign of the tourism industry gathering momentum. “We’ve managed to get a lot of things done and I think Albany has come a fair way in that time,” he said. “There has been a realisation that Albany is a great place to live with people shifting in and our population base is now up to 41,000 and continuing to grow. “All those sorts of things have the City of Albany very positively placed in WA — I think it can continue to be that.” Mr Wellington said his approach in his time on council and as mayor had been driven by asking a simple question — is it good for Albany? “If the answer is it is, then let’s get on and do it,” he said. “I think that’s the same mantra I want to apply at this time. “Is it going to be good for me to bow out at this time and give it to someone younger as we approach the bicentennial? “Yes, I think it is because it’s going to be a very, very important time in the community and someone has got to be there that is able and active enough to continue it on.” He said he had a “terrific time” working with City staff and councillors alike, but that it was now “someone else’s turn”. “I’ve spent over 20 years on council because I was first elected in 2001, so I have enjoyed that time and it’s been very positive to see the growth and development around the place,” he said.