Mark Leonard voted in as Irwin Shire president, replacing Mike Smith who retired from council

Councillor Mark Leonard has been voted in as Irwin Shire president, replacing the retired Mike Smith.

His fellow councillors elected Cr Leonard as president at a meeting on October 24. Mr Smith, who served three terms as shire president, did not stand for re-election.

Three positions were up for grabs on Irwin council and only three candidates put their hands up, meaning existing councillors Andrew Gillam and Hayley Palmer and newcomer Peter Summers were elected unopposed.

Mr Leonard will hold the shire president position for a two-year term.

“I feel deeply grateful and privileged for the trust my colleagues have shown in me,” he said. “I eagerly anticipate the ongoing collaboration within our Shire, and I am enthusiastic about the possibilities for advancing our region.

“Having served on council since 2013 I am fully aligned with the community aspirations of growth and sustainability and will continue the work of my predecessor to make this happen.”

The Irwin Shire council thanked Mr Smith for his years of commitment and dedication and for being a “forward-thinking and progressive leader”, playing a pivotal role in numerous significant projects. Among those projects were big investments in the Rural Roads Program, the Surf Beach Stabilisation Project, completing of the Henry Road independent living accommodation, Moreton Terrace revitalisation program and creation of the Port Denison Foreshore Masterplan.

He was also praised for fostering the growth of industry in the region and providing stability, support and sound financial management during the COVID era.