Corangamite Shire Mayor Cr Kate Makin has been recognised by the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) for her significant contribution to local government and the community.
Cr Makin received the Mayor Emeritus Award at the 2026 MAV Councillor Service Awards, held during the MAV Annual Conference Dinner on Thursday.
The Mayor Emeritus Award recognises councillors who have completed three years of cumulative service as mayor in Victoria.
First elected in 2020 and re-elected in 2024, the Elingamite Ward Councillor has served three consecutive terms as Mayor since first being elected to the role in 2023.
Reflecting on the recognition, Cr Makin said serving as Mayor had been one of the greatest privileges of her life.
"Being Mayor of Corangamite has been an enormous privilege, and I'm proud of the work I've been able to contribute to.
"You put a lot of yourself into this role because you care about the people you represent. To have that commitment recognised is very special."
One of the most rewarding aspects of the role, Cr Makin said, has been connecting with people across the Shire and advocating for their needs.
"I've loved getting out into our towns, hearing people's stories and seeing how much effort goes into making things happen locally.
"Whether it's advocating for better roads, drought support, housing or childcare, I've wanted decision-makers to understand how these issues affect people's everyday lives.
"With my farming background, making sure agriculture gets the recognition and support it deserves has been especially important to me. What happens in our rural communities matters to the whole country."
Cr Makin said her years in local government had reinforced the importance of listening, persistence and strong advocacy.
"I've learned that good leadership and advocacy start with listening. Whether you're at a community event, on a farm or in a local business, those conversations help you understand what matters to people and take a clear message to government.
"Progress takes persistence, strong relationships, evidence and a willingness to have difficult conversations.
"You won't always agree, and you can't deliver everything everyone wants, but you can be honest, follow through and keep showing up. You have a responsibility to keep speaking up for the community you represent."
Cr Makin said the sense of community across Corangamite was one of the things she valued most.
"The way people turn up for each other. Whether it's through drought, fire recovery, a local fundraiser or keeping a club going, people give their time and get on with helping.
"Having grown up on a dairy farm, I also deeply value our agricultural community and everything it contributes.
"There's a strong sense of belonging here, and people care about the future of their towns. That's something worth speaking up for."
Cr Makin said the recognition also reflected the support she has received from her family, fellow councillors and Council staff.
"My husband Matt and our boys Jasper, Oliver and Leo have supported me through everything that comes with this role.
"I'm very grateful to my fellow councillors, CEO David Rae and the Council staff who work hard for our community every day.
"Most of all, thank you to the community for trusting me, sharing your concerns and ideas, and giving me the opportunity to represent you."
Cr Makin was among several South West councillors recognised at this year's MAV Councillor Service Awards. Warrnambool City Council Mayor Cr Ben Blain also received a Mayor Emeritus Award, while Moyne Shire Councillor Jordan Lockett was recognised with a 10 Years' Service Award.
A full list of recipients is available on the MAV website.
