20 September 2018

Councillor Jamie Chaffey was re-elected as Mayor of Gunnedah Shire for his second term in a vote at last night’s Ordinary Council Meeting (19 September).

Cr Chaffey will be supported by Cr Rob Hooke, after he was elected as the new Deputy Mayor for the two-year term.

The election was attended by community members, family of the Councillors and several dignitaries, including Walcha Shire Mayor Eric Noakes, Liverpool Plains Shire Mayor Andrew Hope and former Gunnedah Shire Mayor Bill Weakley.

Upon accepting the role of Mayor, Cr Chaffey said he was humbled to have the support of his fellow Councillors and looks forward to having the privilege of serving as Mayor of Gunnedah Shire for another two years.

“Congratulations to Cr Rob Hooke on his appointment as Deputy Mayor. I believe with this team we can continue to lead a Council that achieves great things together,” Cr Chaffey said.

During the meeting many of the Councillors paid tribute to outgoing Deputy Mayor Gae Swain, with Cr Chaffey acknowledging Cr Swain as a pillar of strength and guidance during his first two years on Council.

“Cr Swain has made an enormous contribution to this Shire, having served on Council for 23 years; as Mayor for nine years and as Deputy Mayor for six years,” he said.

“In the 33 years of Gunnedah Shire, Cr Swain has been the longest serving Mayor, and has been a light for myself and the organisation.”

In the Mayoral Minute tabled for the Council as a half-term report, Cr Chaffey outlined many of the great things the current Council has been involved with.

“There are a large number of decisions already made by Council that have taken big strides towards improving our great community,” Cr Chaffey said.

“This Council is responsible for the 10-year Community Strategic Plan; for almost $24 million in grants, over $115 million delivered, or to be delivered, in major projects; as well as a number of strategies for improvement of our community’s excellent quality of life.

“It is a glowing indication of the vision for the community and an outstanding effort by all the staff and Councillors involved.

“Thank you for your consistency and motivation; and thank you for the opportunity to represent you again as Mayor.”

Photo caption: Gunnedah Shire Mayor Jamie Chaffey and Deputy Mayor Rob Hooke.

ENDS

Media Contact: Brooke Maisey 6740 2100.