April 15, 2020
Toowoomba’s new council will be officially sworn-in during a two-hour ceremony from 11:00am on Thursday (April 16).
But don’t rush over to the Toowoomba Council Chambers to watch … strict limits on the number of people allowed at public gatherings will be observed along with social distancing.
For this reason, the ceremony will be livestreamed by Council.
CEO Brian Pidgeon said the swearing-in ceremony was adapted to the current health directives in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Social distancing will be a priority with the Mayor and 10 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 a 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 livestreamed 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 were keen to get to work making strategic decisions that will lead to the growth of our region.”
- To view the livestream of the TRC swearing-in ceremony visit www.tr.qld.gov.au/news
