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Youngest Qld deputy mayor appointed

Councillor Sara Diana Faraj is the new Fraser Coast Regional Council Deputy Mayor.

Cr Faraj said she was honoured to be taking on the role and looked forward to working closely with the Mayor and fellow Councillors to build better communities together.

“The Fraser Coast is in an era of great change and revitalisation, and I look forward to contributing on behalf of the community, towards this transformative period,” she said.

“Council is focused on strategic growth and liveability – creating a region where older residents can age comfortably, and younger generations see a vibrant future to live, work and raise families.

“I am passionate about advocating for our region to ensure we secure our fair share from other levels of government, drive investment, and deliver on key regional priorities.

“I am eager to contribute my skills, energy and passion to the role of Deputy Mayor, and to support Council’s ongoing efforts to serve our community well.”

At 23 years of age, Cr Faraj is the youngest Councillor in Queensland and is now the youngest Deputy Mayor in Queensland. She is the first female Deputy Mayor on the Fraser Coast since Belinda McNeven served in the role in 2008.

Cr Faraj was appointed Deputy Mayor by her Council colleagues at today’s Council meeting at Maryborough City Hall.

The Deputy Mayor is appointed annually. Cr Paul Truscott served in the role from April 2024.

Cr Faraj represents Division 9, which includes parts of Scarness, Torquay, Pialba, Kawungan, and Wondunna, and was first elected to Council in 2024.

Cr Faraj is also the Chair of the Arts, Culture and Heritage Advisory Committee and the Regional Arts Development Fund Committee, and a member of the Fraser Coast Events Advisory Committee.

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