By Alesha Capone
Wyndham councillor Marcel Mahfoud says that he will continue carrying out his duties in a virtual capacity until he is able to receive a Novavax vaccine against COVID-19.
Cr Mahfoud released a statement yesterday (Wednesday, December 1), in which he stated that he is “pro choice” and does “intend to be vaccinated”.
Any Wyndham councillor who fails to provide proof of their COVID-19 vaccination to the mayor and council chief executive by close of business today (Thursday, December 2) will be encouraged to take a leave of absence.
The leave of absence period will last until the Local Government Minister Shaun Leane provides the council with advice on why mandatory vaccine requirements requiring state parliamentarians to be vaccinated, or face suspension from their roles, have not been extended to Victorian councillors.
The council voted to write to Mr Leane for advice on the matter, at a meeting on Tuesday night.
Cr Mahfoud appeared at the meeting in a virtual capacity, using a screen to communicate with the other councillors who attended the meeting in-person at the Werribee council chamber.
Cr Mahfoud’s statement also read: “I am awaiting the release of the Novavax vaccine in Australia as this is a more traditional vaccine.
“This is currently being assessed by the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration ) and I anticipate that it will be available soon.
“Given that the ability exists to attend council meetings and briefings virtually, I will continue in my role as Chaffey ward councillor, meeting virtually with residents, councillors and council staff temporarily, until Novavax becomes available.”
Speaking at the meeting, Cr Mia Shaw said that earlier this year, all councillors voted for a COVID-19 vaccination hub to be established at Eagle Stadium.
“It would be hypocritical now for Wyndham city council, and all councillors here tonight, to not take a stand requiring councillors who were elected by this community to be double vaccinated too,” she said.
Cr Heather Marcus said that COVID has had a significant impact on Wyndham.
“I believe all councillors, as leaders of this city, really should be all fully vaccinated,” she said.
Cr Jennie Barrera said the position of the state government and health authorities on the requirement for people to be vaccinated was “unequivocal”.
“I think as leaders in this community, councillors should step up, put the community first, above individual interests,” she said.
