By Jeremy Cook
Southern Downs Regional Council has issued a statement confirming its now-former chief executive Dave Burges was on long service leave at the time of his dismissal last Wednesday.
All but two councillors had voted to terminate Mr Burges’ employment effective immediately at the ordinary council meeting on 18 September.
In a statement to media the following morning, the council confirmed Mr Burges had been away on long service leave when his employment was terminated.
Ex-Bundaberg Regional Council chief executive Steve Johnston, who has been serving as the council’s acting CEO in the meantime, will continue in the position during the recruitment process, according to the statement. There has yet been no indication as to whether Mr Johnston will continue permanently.
“The termination was administered in accordance with the contract terms, as agreed by the previous council,” a statement from the council read.
“In accordance with the Local Government Act and privacy regulations, council is not in a position to comment further on personal information or employment details of any council employees including the Chief Executive Officer.”
In a statement, Southern Downs Mayor Melissa Hamilton thanked Mr Burges for his valuable contribution to the community over the past four years and wished him well in the future.
“I would like [to] thank Dave for his service to the organisation and the Southern Downs community for the past four years,” Mayor Hamilton said.
“I look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with councillors and staff towards the future of our region.”
