KIDNAPPING A MUNICIPAL COUNCILLOR.

9 August 1862, The Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957), page 5

…him to get into a boat on a dodgy pretext. When out to sea they told him that there was a plan afoot to make him chairman. "He remonstrated with them, and actually got out his knife when the second man told him to put it up, or it would be worse for him. Both of them told him they were to get 10 pounds for keeping him out of the way till nine o'clock that night, and if he got on shore before they would not get the money."  More of this intriguing tale and Pickles account is in the Argus on Saturday 9 August 1862. with outgoing Mayor Rachel Powning at the final council meeting an outstanding leader of Port Phillip in 2011 and 2012 picture Simon Kosmer  The mayor provides a critical leadership role on Council. The only statutory role outlined in the Local Government Act is that the mayor must preside at Council meetings. In practice, the role is so much more. The mayor not only represents the Council in the community and is the spokesperson for the Council, but also needs to be skilful in facilitating the councillor group to work together towards Council's collectively agreed plan.…