A new team of Balonne Shire Councillors were sworn into Office yesterday, with a trio of experienced Councillors and the Mayor being re-elected, along with three new faces.
The Electoral Commission of Queensland received a total of nine nominations for the six
available positions of Councillor, with Mayor, Samantha O’Toole being elected unopposed.
Three sitting Councillors – Robyn Fuhrmeister, Bill Winks and Scott Scriven – were re-elected, and three new Councillors – Andrew Dries, Jason Southern and Michaela Christensen – were all successful in their first tilt at representing the Shire.
The election also saw the retirement of Councillors Rod Avery and Alex Benn, who both
thanked the Council for the opportunity to represent Balonne Shire during their terms.
At the Council’s first meeting, Councillor Bill Winks was appointed Deputy Mayor.
Mayor Samantha O’Toole paid tribute to the retiring Councillors, all the candidates who put their name forward and welcomed all the new Councillors representing the Shire in this 2024-28 term.
“We have a lot to do and I’m looking forward to working with this new team of Councillors to deliver for the people of Balonne,” said Mayor O’Toole.
“I congratulate all of the candidates that sought to represent the Shire and welcome all of the successful Councillors that now make up this new team.
“I would like to thank everyone who stepped up to the plate and held the position of Councillor in the 2020-24 term, as your valued contribution is greatly appreciated.”
