Barkly Regional Council has endorsed Councillor, Valda Napurrurla Shannon Warntaparri, as its new Deputy Mayor for the next 12 months.
In a statement, the Council said outgoing Deputy Mayor, Noel Hayes, had served the Barkly and Central Australia with distinction for decades.
“His leadership, deep knowledge of local government, and steady mentorship have contributed to a significant year of progress as the newly elected Council rebuilt from administration and strengthened collaboration with the Executive team. He will remain an integral elected member with the Barkly Regional Council,” the organisation stated.
“The passing of the torch now sees a Warlpiri and Warumungu woman from the Barkly/Central Australia region take up the role – continuing the Council’s commitment to inclusive leadership, strong advocacy, and a governance culture grounded in community trust.”
Cr Warntaparri (pictured, left) previously worked with the Mental Health Association of Central Australia (MHACA), where she helped develop Suicide Story, an Elders-led suicide prevention program grounded in local cultural knowledge.
She speaks and understands several Aboriginal languages and dialects across Central Australia and the Barkly, and has served as a Warlpiri/Warumungu interpreter with the Northern Territory Aboriginal Interpreter Service.
“I am humbled by the trust placed in me by my fellow elected members,” she said.
“Our region is big, diverse and full of strong voices, and I will work hard with the Mayor, the Councillors, and the Executive Team to keep improving services for our communities. I thank Noel for his leadership and look forward to continuing that work together.”
She currently represents Patta Ward on Barkly Regional Council.
Councillor Hayes said it had been an honour to serve as Deputy Mayor over the past year.
“I’m proud of the progress we have made together, and I look forward to continuing my role as an elected member, working for all our communities. I congratulate Valda – she brings deep cultural knowledge, strength and commitment to the job,” he said.
Mayor, Sid Vashist (pictured, right) thanked Councillor Hayes for his mentorship and guidance during this past year.
“His experience and steady leadership helped steer Council forward after a challenging period, and I remain grateful for the continued learning I gain from him,” the Mayor said.
“As we pass the baton, I’m equally honoured to work alongside another Barkly legend in Councillor Valda Shannon Warntaparri. Her cultural knowledge, community experience, and connection across language groups bring enormous strength to our leadership team.
“We are a diverse Council, and as we mark 12 months since returning from administration, we can proudly say we are moving in the right direction. Our financial position has improved, our advocacy has delivered the fast-tracking of numerous local projects, and we are building genuine momentum.
“But we also recognise the economic disparities and significant funding and infrastructure gaps that still affect our region. Together with Deputy Mayor Valda Napurrurla Shannon Warntaparri, Councillors, and our Executive Team we will continue to push for fair outcomes, stronger service delivery, and a more resilient future for the Barkly,” he said.

