East Gippsland Shire Council bid farewell to Chief Executive Officer Anthony Basford and wished him success at a meeting of all staff on his final day, Tuesday, 16 January.

Mr Basford started as CEO at East Gippsland Shire Council in November 2018 on a four-year term and was reappointed for a five-year term in May of last year.

Mr Basford led the organisation through structural changes, the Black Summer Bushfires, the COVID-19 response and multiple floods, and delivered the largest capital program in the shire’s history.

He said that it had been a privilege and honour to lead an organisation of great people and noted that he was proud of what Council had achieved despite difficult and challenging times.

Mayor Cr Tom Crook expressed gratitude for Mr Basford's exemplary leadership during challenging times, including the pandemic, bushfires and other natural disasters, and for the solid organisational foundations he leaves for Council.

“Council acknowledges Anthony's dedication and contributions to East Gippsland, ensuring a smooth transition to a new leadership era. The organisation's resilience and depth, coupled with community support, guarantee the continued delivery of exceptional services,” Cr Crook said.

Mr Basford thanked the resilient communities of East Gippsland for the honour of serving as CEO. While Council described the CEO's departure is a loss for the shire, it said it remains well-positioned for the future.    

In the interim, Fiona Weigall, General Manager Assets and Environment was appointed Acting CEO from Wednesday, January 17 for up to 28 days.

Council will convene on Tuesday, February 6 to determine arrangements for the remainder of the recruitment period. The CEO Employment and Remuneration Committee will assist as an advisory committee in mapping out steps and dates for the recruitment process.

Council wished Mr Basford success in his new role at City of Greater Geelong as Executive Director City Life.

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