Liz Campbell named Emeritus Mayor for astounding service to community

Published on 28 November 2022

One of Kempsey’s longest serving and most respected Mayors, Liz Campbell, has been acknowledged for her astounding community service.

Former Kempsey Shire Mayor Liz Campbell received an Emeritus Mayor award for her years of service to the Kempsey Shire on Monday 24 October at the annual Local Government New South Wales conference held at the Hunter Valley.

The Emeritus Mayor award acknowledges the service and commitment of retired mayors who upheld the position for a minimum of five years.

Liz Campbell served as Kempsey Shire’s mayor from 2012, when she became the first popularly elected mayor in the Macleay Valley, until 2021.

The former mayor told the Macleay Argus that serving the community is one of life’s greatest gifts.

"It's a real feeling of joy and gratitude to be able to reflect upon a time in my life where I served my community as mayor," said Ms Campbell. “It's a great privilege.”

The retired councillor was nominated for Emeritus Mayor by Kempsey Shire Council following her decision not to run for re-election in August 2022. The nomination was initiated by General Manager Craig Milburn, who believes that the award is one way to celebrate Cr Campbell’s service and dedication to her community during her years as a councillor.

"We felt from an organisation's point of view it was suitable to nominate Liz given her dedication and commitment to the community over fourteen years in council and two terms as mayor," said Mr Milburn.

Cr Campbell attended the Local Government NSW conference many times over the course of her career. In receiving her award she said she was honoured to receive the award and acknowledged the support of her loved ones and community.

"I truly believe no one achieves anything on their own,” said Cr Campbell.

“This award is not just to celebrate my service, but also to acknowledge the people who have been by my side throughout the journey."

One of Kempsey Shire’s newest councillors, Kinne Ring, told the Argus that she is inspired by Cr Campbell and her contributions, naming her a “truly wonderful” mentor and an “outstanding role model” to the community.

"She has always told me to play my own game and run my own race,” said Cr Ring.

“Liz is a huge reason I've built my confidence as a professional and a leader. Liz has never made me feel like I was undeserving or too young or too anything to be where I am.”

"Her influence will ripple into the future prosperity of the Macleay Valley."

Councillors paid tribute to departing Councillor Liz Campbell at the ordinary Council meeting on 19 July 2022. You can read the transcript of the speech here.