Six months in office
Published on 02 April 2025
It’s hard to believe it has already been six months since the Local Government Elections and my appointment as Mayor. Like many milestones the time has flown by but there have also been some long, challenging days.
On 30 September last year I wrote that I was dedicated to bringing care, commitment and compassion to the role. I’m proud to be following through on that promise.
This term of Council combines fresh ideas and aspirations with returning Councillors who are experienced at working within the protocols and limitations of our local government structures. We have spent many hours in briefings and workshops getting up to speed with legislation and our responsibilities.
Councillors have discussed and debated tough issues like balancing financial sustainability and the impact on ratepayers, plans for our Holiday Parks plus the constant challenge of aligning development potential with community expectations.
We’ve met with Ministers, other Councils and business leaders to advocate for our Valley and have undertaken the recruitment process for our next CEO.
On a personal note, it’s been a rewarding and exhausting six months. I didn’t imagine I’d spend my 30th birthday at a local government conference in Tamworth and have reduced my work hours with CUC to focus on my role of Mayor.
A real highlight has been meeting with so many talented, passionate people across our Shire, whether it’s celebrating the achievements of our Australia Day Award winners, sharing lunch with seniors in Stuarts Point or checking out the trails at Kalateenee Mountain Bike park. Our community is full of dedicated people working hard to create positive change.
I’m sure the next six months and the three years beyond that will involve challenges and difficult conversations, but there is also opportunity to make a difference. That’s what keeps me motivated!