The mayor of the Macedon Ranges Shire Council has been disqualified from driving after being caught speeding and driving under the influence in his official vehicle. Mayor Dominic Bonanno disclosed the incident occurred on the evening of October 31 on McGeorge Road in Gisborne South, located northwest of Melbourne.

Bonanno stated he was operating his mayoral vehicle when he was stopped for speeding and found to have a blood alcohol level exceeding the legal limit. He confirmed that the vehicle was neither impounded nor damaged during the incident.

In a public statement, Bonanno acknowledged that his actions have undermined community trust. "I appreciate that my family, fellow councillors, council staff, and the community put their trust in me, which I have breached, of which I sincerely apologise," he said. He expressed regret, stating, "I can't turn the clock back, but I will work each day to rebuild this trust in me over the months and years ahead."

Bonanno also mentioned his disappointment in himself and noted that he has returned the mayoral vehicle following the incident. He has taken personal leave and will not return to the council until November 25, when a new mayor is expected to be elected. He confirmed that he will not seek re-election for the mayoral position.

Victoria police reported that a vehicle was intercepted around 8:15 p.m. on October 31 in Gisborne South. They stated that a 49-year-old man from the area returned a positive preliminary breath test and was taken to a local station for further testing. The evidentiary breath test indicated a blood alcohol level of 0.087. Police confirmed that the man received infringement notices for drink driving and other traffic violations.