Announcement from Councillor Fitzpatrick

Published on 09 December 2022

Rural City of Wangaratta Councillor Ashlee Fitzpatrick with her partner Michael Groves, are thrilled to announce they are expecting their first child in April 2023.

Cr Fitzpatrick was first elected to Council in 2017 as the youngest person ever to have been elected to the Rural City of Wangaratta Council, and at the time, served as the youngest Councillor in Victoria.

Cr Fitzpatrick had previously served on the Rural City of Wangaratta Youth Council. Similarly, Mr Groves has played an active role in the local community also serving on Youth Council, and was awarded Young Citizen of the Year at Australia Day celebrations in Wangaratta in 2017.

“We are so happy to share this special news with our community,” said Cr Fitzpatrick.

“Michael and I are incredibly involved in our local community and we look forward to this continuing as our new journey begins.”

“I have been a strong advocate for local youth in my professional and personal life, including as a Councillor where I hold the Portfolios of Youth, Family, All Ability, Community Wellbeing and as of last week, Community Engagement.”

“My experience as a parent will bring an even deeper understanding and relationship with the community I represent.”

Rural City of Wangaratta Mayor Cr Dean Rees has expressed his joy and support for Cr Fitzpatrick.

“Cr Fitzpatrick is a terrific advocate for the Wangaratta community. She works hard as a Councillor to be an inclusive and forward-thinking representative,” said Cr Rees.

“I speak for all Councillors when I extend my congratulations to Ashlee and Michael.”

“We look forward to Cr Fitzpatrick continuing in her role as Councillor as many of us on Council do as parents.”