Focus on what matters
Tony Phelps
Winchelsea Ward Councillor
Join me, Tony Phelps, in making thriving communities across Winchelsea ward and Surf Coast Shire where everyone prospers. Let's focus on what collectively matters.
Councillor Update, 12 May 2026
Draft budget out for review, e-waste collection, Neighbourhood Houses no extra funding, Barwon Water Black Rock $20m boost, National Volunteer Week
Councillor Update, 24 Mar 2026
Healthy Wealthy & Wise expo, phone network capacity, Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing, roads maintenance
Councillor Update, 10 Mar 2026
Winchelsea Lions free kids picnic, Winchelsea Probus AGM, community dinner, Winchelsea Place Plan, budget, Growing Winchelsea meeting
I'm thrilled to announce that I have been elected as your Councillor for Winchelsea Ward. With this role, I'm dedicated to addressing the needs and aspirations of our community.
What are YOU looking for from your local government?
Controlled Development and Growth:
The hinterland areas of our shire have tremendous potential. I am committed to encouraging planned development and growth in these regions to alleviate pressure on our saturated coastal communities. A balanced approach ensures sustainable growth while preserving the unique character of our towns, including community assets like parks, playgrounds, and footpaths from the start.
Timely Community Assets Maintenance and Renewal:
Our community assets, such as parks, halls, playgrounds, and pathways, require timely renewal and regular maintenance. I will ensure more attention and resources are allocated to these essential tasks to keep our facilities in good condition for future generations.
Improved Road Maintenance:
Our gravel roads are too rough too often, and potholes take too long to fix. I am committed to a faster response to road upkeep to ensure safer and smoother travel for all residents, encouraging locals and visitors alike to explore our diverse countryside.
Activities, Programs, and Resources to Improve Community Mental Health:
Fostering community interaction through events, enjoying nature, and combating isolation is crucial. I aim to enhance these opportunities to create friendships and bring enjoyment to life.
A Balanced and Sustainable Budget:
As ratepayers, we want good value for every dollar. With public funds tight, we need to focus on essential expenditures that matter most. I am dedicated to ensuring a fair, sustainable budget that meets our community's needs.
Vision for the Future
While our community is thriving, there is always room for improvement. As your Councillor, I am committed to addressing key strategic and policy issues that matter to you.
Councils significantly impact our daily lives. Here in Surf Coast Shire, I aim to foster respectful debate, open minds, and a commitment to representing the community instead of personal agendas.
I am passionate about making Surf Coast Shire an even better place to live, work, and play. I am eager to hear from you—the ratepayers and stakeholders—on how we can shape our future for the benefit of all, following fair democratic processes.
Thank you for your support. Together, we can achieve great things.
My Top Issues
RESPONSIVE ROAD FIXING
Regular proactive maintenance of gravel (unsealed) roads is crucial for ensuring safe travel, preventing costly repairs, reducing dust and erosion, and maintaining accessibility for residents and emergency services.
PROACTIVE ASSET MAINTENANCE
Maintenance of community assets like playgrounds and halls before there are issues ensures safety, enhances usability, prolongs their lifespan, and fosters a vibrant, well-maintained environment for all residents to enjoy and benefit from.
COMMUNITY CONNECTION
Connection is vital for communities as it promotes mental & emotional well-being, fosters socialisation, and provides support, leading to a healthier, more resilient and enjoyable community.
Tony Phelps
I have spent the last 18 years in Winchelsea, while my partner’s family has been in this community for over 50 years. Our three boys attended school right here in Winchelsea. My deep connection to this community drives my dedication to making it better.
As a 17-year volunteer firefighter with the Wurdale CFA Brigade, I have fought fires locally, around the state, and interstate. My commitment extends to being a volunteer committee-member for Winchelsea Community House and Secretary of the Winchelsea Star community newspaper, one of few successful weekly non-profit publications. I spearheaded a petition to get Winchelsea’s sports hall, the LTC, fixed by the Council and State Government after a prolonged closure due to flooring issues.
Running a small home-based business gives me firsthand insight into the challenges faced by local businesses. I have regularly worked for the state and federal electoral commissions at manager level which provides experience and insight into large bureaucratic organisations too, plus past work history managing teams in both private and government entities - including budgetting, incident response and scheduling.
I believe human-induced climate change is a genuine threat that we (all) need to address through practical, realistic, and achievable measures at all levels of government and society. This needs to be done without crippling ourselves economically or technically. There are some very smart people coming up with solutions to it all - win-win-win is available (environment, economy, community)