Elena Weatherall

Explainer: Council Countback Elections

Explainer: Council Countback Elections

The resignation of Councillor Troy Arandale from Glen Innes Severn Council has prompted the start of a countback election process — a method used in New South Wales to fill council vacancies without holding a full by-election. How Does It Work? When a councillor resigns mid-term, and they were elected via proportional representation, the NSW Electoral Commission can conduct a countback election rather than a fresh vote. Here’s how the process unfolds: • The Commission contacts all unelected candidates from the previous council election to determine who is still eligible to fill the vacancy. • These candidates are invited to…
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Councillor Troy Arandale Resigns

Councillor Troy Arandale Resigns

Glen Innes Severn Council has received the resignation of Councillor Troy Arandale, who stepped down from his position effective immediately on Thursday morning. Mayor Margot Davis acknowledged Cr Arandale’s contribution to Council during his almost five-year tenure, during which he also served as Deputy Mayor for a time. “On behalf of Council, I would like to thank Councillor Arandale for his service over almost five years,” Cr Davis said. “Councillor Arandale served as Deputy Mayor for part of his term and, like all councillors, contributed time and effort to the role in service to the community.” Cr Davis, who is…
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Council Strengthens Support for Glen Innes Community Centre

Council Strengthens Support for Glen Innes Community Centre

Glen Innes Severn Council has reaffirmed its commitment to the Glen Innes & District Community Centre (GIDCC), recognising the organisation’s key role in delivering essential frontline services and promoting social connection throughout the region. The GIDCC operates as a community-led hub, providing a broad range of vital services. These include emergency relief, youth support, programs for seniors, skills workshops and service referrals—addressing ongoing challenges in accessing services across rural communities. At its April 2025 meeting, Council endorsed a comprehensive support package aimed at addressing immediate needs and ensuring long-term sustainability. The package includes advocacy with Homes North to enhance service…
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In Conversation With Elena Weatherall

In Conversation With Elena Weatherall

Elena Weatherall is the CEO of the Glen Innes Local Aboriginal Land Council, a role she took on 11 months ago. Local Area Land Councils [LALC] are part of the network of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council. Its purpose is to acquire land through claim or purchase, establish commercial enterprises to support a sustainable economic base for Aboriginal communities and to maintain and enhance Aboriginal culture and heritage. Local business enterprises include tourism and activities such as weed spraying, pest management and hazard reduction. Elena is keen to see local Aboriginal traditions and beliefs showcased. "I love multiculturalism and diversity…
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Seventh Councillor Announced

Seventh Councillor Announced

Mr David Scott has been named as the successful final candidate in the Glen Innes Severn Council election. After the shock resignation of Rob Banham shortly after having been sworn in, unsuccessful candidates were given the opportunity for another run at a vacant position in a “count back” election. The count back election took place at 11 o’clock this morning, with David Scott being declared the successful candidate shortly thereafter. Also participating in the count back election was Anne Vosper who was ultimately unsuccessful. Elena Wetherall did not apply to be considered for the count back election. Newly declared councillor…
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