About Tony Phelps
Winchelsea Ward Councillor
Cr Tony Phelps is an active member of our community. He and his wife Rochelle raised their three boys in Winchelsea.
A former IT Manager working in local government in England, financial services in Vanuatu and public libraries in Melbourne, Cr Phelps has a deep commitment to public service. He has served as a member of Kiwanis and Lions clubs in a variety of positions, on the Winchelsea Community House committee, is part of the Winchelsea Star volunteer team and an active volunteer firefighter with Wurdale CFA Brigade.
He was instrumental in the 2023 Winchelsea Community Action Plan to identify the town’s priorities and an active campaigner for the reopening of the school’s Leisure Time Centre (sports hall). Tony has previously helped with the processing and organisation of council, state and federal elections over many years and is a passionate believer in democracy. He holds an engineering degree from Liverpool University and an MBA from Latrobe University.
Cr Phelps has a particular focus on community connection, as our society adapts to an internet-powered world and mental health takes centre stage as a result. Community connection takes many forms, and he believes that how our towns and villages develop is a key related aspect, as is making sure what we already have is well looked after.
Travelling, DIY, lifelong learning and gardening keep him motivated and engaged – just don’t ask which is a weed and which isn’t!
A History of Community Involvement
"I have been actively involved in various community roles over decades, demonstrating my enthusiasm for making Surf Coast Shire a better place for all."
Committee Chair, Winchelsea Community House
Volunteer Chair of the Committee for Winchelsea Community House, leading numerous initiatives that foster community spirit and provide vital services to residents. Our community house is a hub of activity and support in Winchelsea, thanks to the collaborative efforts of dedicated volunteers and staff.
Part of the team that proposed and successfully convinced Council to support the former Winchelsea Shire Hall being managed by Winch House. Also introduced the Chatty Cafe social event occurring every Friday.
Active Volunteer Firefighter (CFA)
A 15-year role as volunteer firefighter and currently lieutenant in the CFA Wurdale Brigade has been particularly rewarding - responding to both local emergencies and around Victoria & even interstate. The camaraderie and sense of purpose within the brigade are a great source of inspiration.
Awarded a National Emergency Medal for assistance during the 2019-20 bushfires.
Committee Secretary, Winchelsea Star
Secretary of the Winchelsea Star community newspaper and part of a team ensuring that our district is informed about important local issues and events. The newspaper serves as a crucial platform for community voices, and proud to contribute to its success. It's one of only a handful of successful weekly community newspapers in the State.
The Star and similar publications are important conduits between Surf Coast Shire and its communities.
Community Events Public Address System Operator
Regularly assisting with community events, by operating the community public-address system, which has been instrumental in various community events and gatherings such as the ANZAC Day memorial service at the Winchelsea RSL or Remembrance Sunday at the Winchelsea Memorial Cairns. Services such as these help bring people together, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
They are also great opportunities to catch up with people and find out what's happening, burning issues, new opportunities.
Sound Guy, Winchelsea Repertory Society
The Winchelsea Rep Soc usually puts on a play around spring each year. Helping behind the scenes with sound effects, microphones, music and the like. Everyone involved does it for free, and each evening's performance raises funds for a particular community group. It's a very different collection of people, a bit of stress, and a lot of fun!
Torquay and Anglesea have similarly vibrant theatrical groups, and Deans Marsh, Lorne, and Moriac hosts live events too. Fabulous as something different to get involved in, and highly recommended.
Facts about Winchelsea Ward
Voters: Around 11,000 voters
Area: Around 980 sq km.
Townships: Bambra, Barrabool, Bellbrae, Buckley, Connewarre, Freshwater Creek, Gherang, Gnawarre, Modewarre, Moriac, Mount Duneed, Ombersley, Paraparap, Torquay North-west, Wensleydale, Winchelsea, Wurdiboluc
Interactive Map: The Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) are responsible for managing and running Council elections. You can see an interactive map for any Council including Surf Coast Shire, which lets you zoom in to see exactly where the borders of each Ward lie. Head over to maps.vec.vic.gov.au