Zammataro 'humbled' by public support
Published Monday 21 March 2016
NEW Douglas Shire councillor Roy Zammataro remains 'overwhelmed' by the avalanche of support after blitzing the poll booths on Saturday.
Zammataro was the most popular vote for councillor amongst the electorate having received 2,842 and counting as of last night, according to the Queensland Electorate Commission.
The popular Mossman born resident said he was optimistic leading into the election but was blown away by the results.
"It's very humbling and to get that kind of support is really overwhelming," Zammataro said.
"I knew I was going to get support, and I think a lot of people were happy that they were going to get a local to vote for. That was the feedback I was getting and one of the reasons I got so many (votes) I think. I can work with locals, I know the people and I can work with the people."
Zammataro hoped his extensive knowledge of the trade sector and his experience in management and infrastructure would benefit the Shire, while his approachable style should encourage the community to come forward with ideas and concerns.
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He was looking forward to working with re-elected Mayor Julia Leu and councillor Abigail Noli, and praised them for their efforts as part of the first Douglas Shire Council after de-amalgamation.
"My practical skills are going to help a lot," Zammataro said.
"I'm going to learn a lot and I'm really happy to be working with Julia and Abigail, they are experienced and I can learn a hell of a lot from them.
"But I can work with whoever the councillors may be. I'll go alright. I’ve always wanted to run for council and I've finally done it."
The rest of Zammataro's team are not likely to be decided until after March 29, when all postal votes are counted. Zammataro said his first priority would be looking into the processes of how a council operates and evaluating what is realistically achievable.
"There are a lot of things that people ask of you (as a council) that aren't even under local council jurisdiction," he said.
"There are a lot of state government issues that people don't understand so I think I’ll just be focusing on how we can operate first.
"I think (it's exciting) that this will now be a full council for a full four year term. In two years it wasn’t enough (time) and it (Douglas Shire Council) was still in its infancy, so with four years you have a good chance to work a s a team."