Cr Sue Baker to lead Frankston City as newly elected Mayor
Published on 11 December 2025
Frankston City has welcomed Cr Sue Baker as the new Mayor for 2025–2026. A highly experienced Councillor with a strong background in leadership, governance and community engagement, Mayor Baker has earned the confidence of her fellow Councillors to lead the city in the year ahead.
Cr Cherie Wanat has been elected Deputy Mayor. Born and raised in Frankston, Deputy Mayor Wanat brings strong local insight, lived experience and an active community presence to the role, along with extensive leadership experience across large, diverse teams and a proven ability to mentor colleagues and build positive, respectful working relationships. Together, their appointments mark Council’s first all-female Councillor leadership team.
As Mayor, Cr Baker said she is focused on strengthening Council’s governance, deepening community engagement and progressing key priorities such as housing, cost-of-living support and essential community services.
“With over five years’ experience across two terms in the North West and Pines Wards and three years on the Audit and Risk Committee, I’ve heard the diverse views of our community,” Mayor Baker said. “I have been preparing for this responsibility for many years and will continue to ensure Council’s decisions reflect the real needs and aspirations of our residents.”
Reflecting on her work as Chair of the Housing Advisory Committee, Mayor Baker added:
“Access to safe and secure housing underpins family stability, workforce access and broader community wellbeing. I’m looking forward to continuing our work in supporting housing choice and affordability across Frankston City.”
“The year ahead will bring significant responsibilities, including securing affordable housing outcomes, implementing the aged care reforms and working with our new CEO to reset and reinvigorate this Council.
“These are complex areas that will require steady, compassionate leadership, leadership that listens first, communicates clearly and keeps people at the centre of every decision.”
Mayor Baker said she looks forward to working with the talented Councillor group and is confident the incoming Deputy Mayor Wanat will bring strong local insight and energy.
Deputy Mayor Wanat draws on extensive local government experience, giving her strong insight into Council systems, responsibilities and long-term planning.
Reflecting on her appointment, Deputy Mayor Wanat said:
“As someone born and raised in Frankston, a long-standing resident, ratepayer, business owner and active community member, I bring a perspective shaped by lived experience”
"I look forward to working alongside Mayor Baker and the Councillor group through fresh ideas and new perspectives”
Interim Frankston City Council CEO Cam Arullanantham also congratulated Mayor Baker and Deputy Mayor Wanat on their appointments.
“Mayor Baker’s leadership experience, combined with Deputy Wanat’s strong local insight, will help drive positive outcomes for the community. I look forward to working with our new councillor leadership team,” Mr Arullanantham said.
Mr Arullanantham also thanked outgoing Mayor Cr Kris Bolam JP for his many years of service to Frankston City, recognising more than a decade of contributions, including three mayoral terms.
“Cr Bolam has served our community with exceptional commitment over many years,” he said. “His leadership has strengthened governance, advanced major city-shaping projects, and reinforced Council’s focus on transparent, community-centred decision-making.”
He also acknowledged outgoing Deputy Mayor Cr Steffie Conroy.
“A huge thank you also to outgoing Deputy Mayor Cr Steffie Conroy, whose strong community presence and incredible attendance at local events have been invaluable this year,” he said. “Her enthusiasm and genuine connection with residents have significantly strengthened Council’s relationship with the community.”
This milestone also coincides with the appointment of incoming CEO Tennille Bradley, marking the first time Frankston City has been led by a female Mayor, Deputy Mayor and CEO.