Council Statement

Published on 03 May 2023

Many visitors come to our magnificent High Country, and Mansfield Shire is known for its welcoming and inclusive community. As Council, we actively support and advocate for a healthy and connected community, in line with our Council values of integrity, innovation, collaboration, leadership and respect.

We are aware of an article recently published by The Age which states that 15 councils have reported disruption of their Council meetings by members of the My Place network. Several shires, including ours, are mentioned within this article.

Although we are not aware of the political views and personal beliefs of everyone who comes to our Shire, Mansfield Shire Council does not support views or behaviours that are not aligned with Council’s values.

Mayor Cr James Tehan has advised that he was present at a private event hosted by his wife at their property. This event was described as family-orientated, where guest speakers discussed home schooling, bio-dynamic farming, health and wellness, and lawful processes.

This was not a council event or a My Place event and did not showcase the views intimated in The Age article. Mayor Tehan reiterates that he is not a member of My Place nor does he support them or their views.

As an elected member of Mansfield Shire Council, Mayor Tehan will continue to actively engage with and listen to his community while adhering to Council’s values, as part of a consultative Council who represents, listens to, and empowers our community.