IN her own words it has been a “very challenging” last 12 months for ousted Port Stephens East Ward councillor Sally Dover.

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Having lost her husband Garry to cancer a little over a year ago, the 78-year-old great grandmother was voted off the council she has served for 13 years at the 9 September local government elections.

“I am disappointed … I love this community and I have loved serving the people of this community,” a philosophical Mrs Dover said.

“It’s clear that the voters wanted some fresh new ideas on council. It’s out with the old and in with the new.”

Mrs Dover said she was proud of her time on council, particularly working with council staff and the public and being part of a team that turned the council’s finances from a $13 million deficit into a $1.5 million surplus.

“There have been many achievements but it’s time for others to make a positive contribution to this great town.

“I believe Ryan Palmer will make an excellent mayor and I can see that the make-up of the new council has a good blend of youth and experience.”

Often criticised for her dedicated support of [former mayor] Bruce MacKenzie, Mrs Dover defended her actions, believing it had nothing to do with the election result.

“As far as I’m concerned he [MacKenzie] got things done. I didn’t agree with everything he said or did, but he would go where others feared to tread.”

Mrs Dover said she hoped to spend more time with family while continuing her work with not-for-profit and Aboriginal organisations, and supporting youth services on the Tomaree peninsula.

“I thought last year was challenging. I think it’s time to sit back and reflect on what’s past.

“I have had many life experiences, I have developed businesses and I have served the community to the best of my ability.

“Change is always difficult but I know that God has a plan for me for the next phase of my life, and this will be revealed to me in time.”

By Charlie ELIAS