Council
12 September, 2024
Five leaving council
Hindmarsh Shire Council will have at least five new faces occupying the six seats after the October local government elections.
Debra Nelson is the only current councillor to nominate for another year, with the remaining five set to leave.
Cr Nelson, 63, will be standing in the East Ward for a fourth term since she was elected in 2012.
"I really enjoy it and it's an honour to represent the community," she said.
"And I'll get to mentor the new councillors coming in."
Mayor Brett Ireland, Wendy Bywaters, Melanie Albrecht, Rob Gersch and Ron Ismay have all announced their retirement from council.
Nhill business owner Cr Bywaters announced in August that she won't be nominating in the upcoming election.
"It was a hard decision because I really love being a councillor and representing and serving the community of Hindmarsh," she said.
"I've decided it's time for me now, I've had my turn and it's time to hand over to some new people."
Cr Bywaters, 63, finished representing the East Ward, after representing the West Ward in 2012.
"I wish the next council all the best," she said.
Cr Albrecht, 44, who has represented the West Ward for the past four years and served as mayor in 2021, said she would not be standing again due to "personal reasons".
While being on council she continued to work as an executive director for business and strategy at West Wimmera Health Service.
After over 40 years of service, Cr Gersch will officially retire from council once his term officially ends on October 26.
He held the position of mayor for six terms during his council career.
"It certainly wasn't an easy decision to make," he said.
"It was the best thing I ever did. I still enjoy it, but I'm getting to that age and it's time for somebody else to have a go."
Deckert Group employee Cr Ireland said he would not be returning for another term as he is due to retire early next year.
"I wish I'd started 20 years earlier," he said.
"I loved being a councillor, and mayor, but I've had my time in the sun.
"I encourage anybody to stand. It's a great way to serve the community and shape what's going on in the shire."
Hardware store owner Cr Ismay said he too was ready to let "new blood" take over after 11 years as a councillor for Hindmarsh and three as mayor.
"I thought about running again, but I want to spend some time at home, and have some time for myself," he said.
Nominations for council are now open, and close on September 17.