A third councillor in the region has stepped down, with Narrabri Shire Councillor Amanda Brown formally resigning from Council effective Friday, 27 February 2026, after being diagnosed with cancer.
Cr Brown’s departure follows the recent resignation of Cr Marilyn “Mash” Dixon OAM from Gwydir Shire Council and the death of Lone Petersen in Ward A of Uralla Shire Council, which has triggered a by-election.
Cr Brown, one of only two women serving on Narrabri Shire Council, said she had hoped to continue serving the community, but she made the decision to step down to prioritise her health and family.
Mayor Darrell Tiemens acknowledged her contribution.
“Councillor Brown has demonstrated genuine commitment to our community throughout her time on Council,” Mayor Tiemens said.
“She has approached the role with dedication and care, and her contribution to Council discussions and decision-making has been valued by her fellow councillors and staff alike.”
Cr Brown said the decision had not been made lightly.
“Whilst it saddens me to have to resign, I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on Council representing the Narrabri Shire community,” Cr Brown said.
“My cancer diagnosis means a long journey ahead and I feel that I would not be able to give 100 per cent to the role as councillor.
“I thank all councillors, staff and community members for their support and wish the incoming elected representative all the best.”
Under the Local Government Act 1993, the vacancy will be filled by a countback of votes from the last ordinary election, as it falls within 18 months of that poll and Council had previously resolved to use the countback method. The NSW Electoral Commission will appoint a returning officer to conduct the process, with the newly appointed councillor to be announced once complete.
In Gwydir, Cr Marilyn Dixon OAM resigned effective 3 February, also due to medical reasons. First elected in 2012 and re-elected in 2016, 2021 and 2024, Cr Dixon’s departure marks the end of a long period of service to her community.
Mayor Tiffany Galvin paid tribute to her contribution.
“Mash has given her heart and soul to this community for decades. She has been a tireless advocate and a proud representative of our Shire.”
“On behalf of Council and the entire Gwydir community, we sincerely thank Mash for everything she has given. Her legacy will live on in the heart of Gwydir forever.”
The vacancy in Gwydir will also be filled by a countback election conducted entirely by the NSW Electoral Commission, with results to be declared on 17 March 2026.
Meanwhile, in Uralla’s Ward A, the death of councillor Lone Petersen has resulted in a different process. A by-election will be held on Saturday, 18 April 2026 to select a new representative for the southern part of the council area, including Uralla, Salisbury Plains and Gostwyck.
Residents enrolled in Ward A as at 6pm Monday, 9 March 2026 will be required to vote, with the NSW Electoral Commission urging locals to check their registration is up to date.
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