Council Appoints Representatives to Key Committees

At its meeting on 27 November 2024, Bellingen Shire Council resolved to appoint Councillor representatives to a range of external, advisory, and Section 355 committees, reinforcing Council’s commitment to regional collaboration and local community engagement. 

Under the Local Government Act (the Act), Section 355 Committees are delegated certain functions, including the care, control, and management of assets such as parks, sporting reserves, community halls, and other public facilities.  

Some of the varying committee types, including the external advisory committees, require Councillor representation either by invitation or legislative mandate. These appointments ensure that Bellingen Shire’s interests are well represented and provide opportunities for Councillors to contribute to critical regional and local decision-making processes. 

Council has appointed the following Councillor representatives:

Mayor Cr. Steve Allan

• Arts Mid North Coast Inc 
• Northern Regional Planning Panel

Deputy Mayor Cr. Ellie Tree 

• Mid North Weight of Loads Group 
• Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee 

Cr. Jo Brotherton 

• Clarence Regional Library Committee  
• Local Traffic Committee 
• Section 355: Urunga Literary Institute and Senior Citizens Centre Management Committee 

Cr. Jennie Fenton 

• Coastal and Estuary Floodplain Advisory Committee (Chair) 
• Mid North Coast Bush Fire Management Committee

Cr Dominic King 

• Section 355: Bellingen Connell Park Management Committee

Cr. Andrew O'Keeffe 

• NSW Rural Fire Service – Bellingen Liaison Committee 
• Urunga Recreation Reserve Management Committee

Cr. Graeme Shephard 

• Local Traffic Committee 
• Section 355: Dorrigo Saleyards Management Committee 
• Section 355: Dorrigo Community Hall Management Committee 
• Section 355: Dorrigo Recreation Reserve Management Committee

Mayor Cr. Steve Allan commended the Councillors for their willingness to step into these roles, emphasising the significance of maintaining strong connections between the community and Council. 

“These appointments are an important part of Council’s role in representing our community’s interests and maintaining open channels of communication with community, regional and state stakeholders,” Mayor Allan said. “I’d like to thank my fellow Councillors for their commitment to these responsibilities, which play a vital role in ensuring the voices of our residents are heard and considered in broader decision-making processes.” 

These appointments reflect Council’s dedication to active participation in local and regional initiatives and its ongoing efforts to address key local issues such as emergency and asset management, library services, and environmental planning.