One year down and one to go. Visiting the Sheffield School Show today made me think back a year to when I visited last year. It was my first official invite to an event. I remember the excitement and awkwardness I felt.

The last 12 months has been a challenge. Council has been much more involved than I imagined. Taking more time and thought space as well. I have developed a thicker skin I think. I have learned to care less what others think of me and stand back and ask what is best for the municipality. Some will like it and some will not.

Being a Councillor involves trying to work with 3 groups. Other Councillors, Council staff and ratepayers. Not always having the same agenda. After a year of sitting around the table I think I have a decent feel as to where other Councillors are coming from. Sometimes they still surprise me. We are just a cross section of society so you can expect differences. The topic of Climate Change was raised recently and the spectrum around the table ranges from sceptic to whole hearted believer.

I have 12 months to decide on whether I stand again. I probably will depending on my employment and family life.