May 31, 2021

Gunnedah Shire Council is inviting community members considering nominating in the upcoming local government election to attend a free candidate briefing session.

Facilitated by former Lismore City Council Mayor Jenny Dowell OAM, the session is open to any community member interested in learning about standing for Council and the role and responsibilities of elected Councillors.

The session will be held at the Gunnedah Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery on Friday, June 18 from 6-9pm, with light refreshments provided.

Council General Manager Eric Groth is encouraging anyone who may have an interest in running for Gunnedah Shire Council this September to attend.

“Our nine elected Councillors play an important role in advocating for the community and leading and shaping our Shire,” Mr Groth said.

“This session will provide an opportunity for potential candidates to learn more about the role and purpose of local government and the responsibilities and expectations that come with being a Councillor.”

Ms Dowell, who served as Lismore City Council’s mayor for eight years, said the session will allow prospective candidates to learn more about what’s expected from a councillor and mayor on a day-to-day basis.

“I’m delighted to be travelling to Gunnedah to facilitate this information session for those members of the community considering putting up their hand to contest the upcoming local elections,” Ms Dowell said.

“The sessions are designed to be very practical and informative and there will be ample opportunities for questions and answers.

“The best way to ensure all voices in any community are heard is to have a diverse range of candidates stand for election, and we want to encourage people from all walks of life, backgrounds, abilities, ages and gender to come along to one of the sessions and learn more about what’s involved in standing for election and serving on Council.

“Being a Councillor requires a substantial time commitment, but there’s nothing more rewarding than serving in the level of government closest to the local community.”

Bookings for the session are essential. To register, RSVP via email council@infogunnedah.com.au or phone (02) 6740 2100 by Wednesday, June 16.

For more information about the upcoming 2021 local government election and to register as a candidate, visit www.elections.nsw.gov.au.

ENDS

Media Contacts:          

Gunnedah Shire Council: (02) 6740 2100.

Jenny Dowell OAM: 0402 651 394