The official ceremony kicked off on Tuesday, January 25 with the mayoral and councillor oaths and affirmations and the presentation of the mayoral chains.

Uncle Sonny Simms started the ceremony with a Welcome to Country to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of each council Ward.

"I would like to welcome you to this land of the Wandi Wandian people," said Uncle Sonny.

"Wandi Wandian Country stretches from the southern side of the Shoalhaven, down the eastern seaboard, down as far as Conjola.

"The northern side of the river, you're on Wodi Wodi Country, which runs through the Kangaroo Valley, Robertson, up along the east coast.

"And the Budawang people of Milton Ulladulla."

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Matthew Simms and Ivan Morris lead the Smoking Ceremony and all attendees walked through smoke from native plants to cleanse themselves and the space.

Cr Findley welcomed the eight new faces and five returning councillors. It will mark Cr Findley's second term as mayor.

"I just want to acknowledge all of the hard work of all the campaigns of all the candidates who are gathered here today," said Cr Findley. "Thank you everyone for your participation in democracy."

Community members were invited to attend the ceremony, however due to COVID-19 safety protocols, councillors could only invite one guest to join for the first meeting.

Cr Findley also thanked South Coast MP Shelley Hancock, Kiama MP Gareth Ward and Gilmore MP Fiona Phillips for their collaboration with council and advocacy for the South Coast.

"We've got a tremendous amount to do over the next three months, until a federal election gets underway," she said.

Councillor Greg Watson was not present at the ceremony but joined the first ordinary meeting.

Mayor

Greens, Amanda Findley

Ward 1

Shoalhaven Independents, John Wells

Greens, Tonia Gray

Independent, Serena Copley

Labor, Matthew Norris

Ward 2

Shoalhaven Independents, Greg Watson

Greens, Christen Evan

Labor, John Kotlash

Independent, Paul Ell

Ward 3

Shoalhaven Independents, Mark Kitchener

Shoalhaven Independents, Patricia White

Labor, Liza Butler

Greens, Muriel Moo D'Ath

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