Collarette, a new symbol for Bass Coast

THE long-standing mystery of the missing mayoral chains has once again captured public attention in a recent Letter to the Editor.

For those who may have missed the numerous media stories over the years, the mayoral chains were first identified as missing in 2013 and formally reported to police as lost – or possibly stolen – in February 2017. The matter was reported to the police, who are the appropriate authority to investigate such issues, by those responsible at Council at the time.

Despite Police involvement, the chains were never recovered, and no evidence surfaced to shed light on what had happened. As a result, no further action was taken. While Council shares the community’s wish that this mystery had been resolved at the time, without new evidence to warrant further investigation, it seems likely that the case will remain unsolved.

The chains date from many years ago and relate to the former Borough of Wonthaggi.  Their specific value has never been established but based on estimates obtained in previous years, may be between $30,000 and $50,000. The suggestion that they are valued at up to $500,000 is inaccurate.

While replacing the chains was not considered, in December 2023 Council officers sourced a collarette, a modern and cost-effective symbol of the office of the Mayor. The new collarette was $4000 and is a simpler, more progressive design that symbolises the whole of Bass Coast, not only the former Borough of Wonthaggi.

The Mayor has proudly worn the collarette at several significant official functions this year, including citizenship ceremonies, and it will continue to be available for future mayors to wear at important events in the years to come.

Greg Box, CEO Bass Coast Shire