COUNCILLOR Mark Weragoda became the first councillor in Bendigo’s history to be temporarily stood down by an independent councillor conduct panel when he began his leave of absence today. ​

The Eppalock Ward councillor will take leave for one-month following the tabling of the panel’s decision at last night’s City of Greater Bendigo meeting – a reprimand to add a court’s decision to fine him $627 and suspend his license for one year. 

But, for the councillor who brought forward the Councillor Conduct Panel, Cr Weragoda got off lightly. 

“Footballers, judges and other political figures have resigned for less,” Councillor Helen Leach said. 

However, Cr Leach acknowledged the panel’s decision was severe – within the scope of its powers. 

If there is a finding of misconduct, the panel has just three courses of action: reprimand the councillor; direct them to make an apology or direct them to take of leave of absence of no more than two months. 

Just one other local politician in Victoria has been directed to take a leave of absence in the last two years – Hume Councillor Jack Medcraft, following his involvement in a fiery debate with members of the public. 

Cr Leach noted that while Cr Weragoda may not perform the duties or functions of a councillor over the next month, he remains entitled to receive a councillor allowance.

“[But] if that's as harsh as the punishment could be, it must have viewed very seriously by the panel,” Cr Leach said. 

Cr Weragoda was caught driving with a blood alcohol reading of 0.125 on March 6, initially denying the offence to the Bendigo Advertiser.

The conduct panel’s Reasons for Decision were not made public, however Cr Leach indicated that Cr Weragoda’s denial was a significant factor in his reprimand. 

Cr Leach and Councillor Elise Chapman sought to have the panel’s reasons tabled at the meeting as well as its decisions, but their motion was voted down by the other seven councillors.  

Cr Leach said she was disappointed the reasons were not made public and the verdict was findings left “without context”.

She said she was motivated by a desire for transparency. 

“I did it in public interest – it hasn't been easy for me either but it was the right thing to do,” she said. 

Excerpts of text purporting to be from the panel’s report were circulated online following the tabling of the report.

The City of Greater Bendigo said only the nine councillors and city CEO Craig Niemann had access to the Reasons for the Decision. 

Cr Weragoda was contacted for comment but did not respond by the time of press.