The people of Central Darling Shire have their first Council in 12 years, with the NSW Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig confirming the three people to serve as appointed councillors alongside the councillors elected by the community.
The new Rural and Remote Council model will enable the Council to draw on a wide range of expertise to ensure that it can address the challenges of service provision in a remote location.
Central Darling will have an equal mix of elected and appointed councillors to ensure strong local representation while maintaining stable governance.
NSW Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig said this new model was introduced by the Minns Labor Government to address the unique challenges of larger remote councils and to provide a pathway back to democratic representation for Central Darling Shire after 12 years of administration.
“Returning democratic representation to Central Darling Shire after 12 years under administration was a key priority for the Minns Labor Government and I’m very proud that we’ve reached this point,” he said.
“I congratulate both the elected and appointed councillors of Central Darling Shire and I wish them well in their new roles serving this community.
“Central Darling Shire faces unique challenges. The government will continue to work closely with the Council to ensure it has the support it needs.
“I expect all councillors to work together to serve the community, and I look forward to seeing them get down to the business of running the Council.”
Following the election for the Council’s three wards, Peter Sullivan was elected to Ward A, Max Bradley to Ward B, and Daniel Fusi was declared elected uncontested in Ward C.
The three appointed councillors were determined by the Minister after the election results were declared, to ensure their skills and experience will complement those of the elected councillors.
The appointed councillors are:
• Robert (Bob) Stewart – Mr Stewart has served as the Administrator of Central Darling Shire Council since 2019, conducting day to day business during this challenging time which has included fish kills, drought, and floods. Bob has over 40 years of local government experience and understands the specific financial, socioeconomic and environmental challenges for the region.
• Fiona Kelly – Ms Kelly is a proud Barkindji/Ngiyampaa woman and Executive Principal of Menindee Central School which she also attended as a student. Ms Kelly has dedicated herself to culture and community, and her leadership at Menindee Central has seen a number of positive changes.
• The Hon. Barbara Perry – Ms Perry is a former Auburn Councillor, served 13 years in NSW Parliament as the Member for Auburn and served in several Ministerial roles including Minister for Local Government from 2008-2011. She has a legal background and has significant experience in governance and interaction with the State government
