30 nominate for Councillor vacancy
Fraser Coast Regional Council received 30 nominations from residents interested in filling the Division 7 vacancy left following Darren Everard’s resignation.
Twenty-three applications have been confirmed, with a further three applications accepted pending confirmation of electoral enrolment within the Fraser Coast region. Two applications were not accepted as the applications were not submitted in time, while two applications were confirmed but were subsequently withdrawn by the candidates.
The Division 7 position became vacant during the last year of the current Council term, which means Council is required by law to fill the position through appointment rather than via a by-election.
The candidates are (in order of application received):
- Luke Strochnetter;
- Christopher Mizzi;
- Andrew Broad;
- Stephen Wilson;
- Michael Walker;
- Michelle Govers;
- David Dalgleish;
- Andrew Ellis;
- Alicia Wade;
- Russell Lewis;
- Wayne Madsen;
- Dennis Langshaw;
- Kathryn Forgan-Flynn;
- Jan Hegge (Carlson);
- Peter Luxton;
- Giselle O’Keefe;
- Chris Dale;
- Roslyn Buerckner;
- Sara Faraj;
- John Weiland;
- Sue Brooks;
- Michael Tudman;
- Darryl Stewart;
- Liz Hornibrook;
- Derik Westra;
- Bernice Allen.
Councillors will review and consider the applications before voting to appoint a candidate during a Special Meeting in Hervey Bay on Wednesday 6 September 2023, which will be livestreamed on Council’s YouTube channel here - https://youtu.be/Cp29Abznjqg
Mayor George Seymour welcomed the nominations.
“It’s fantastic to see such a high level of community interest in filling this Councillor vacancy,” he said.
“Local governments need Councillors from diverse backgrounds with a wide range of knowledge, skills and experience.
“We appreciate the commitment and dedication of all nominees to take on this vital role and serve our community. We look forward to making a decision and welcoming a new Councillor on 6 September.”
At its Ordinary Meeting this week, Council will consider a report on the selection and appointment process for the vacant position of Councillor for Division 7.
More details about the candidates’ nominations will be included in the Special Meeting agenda, which is expected to be available publicly on Council’s website later this week or early next week.