BREAKING: McNally elected Deputy Mayor
AFTER eight weeks of campaigning and six years council experience, Jo McNally has been elected the new Southern Downs deputy mayor.
Cr McNally topped the polls at both the 2012 and 2016 elections and was nominated for deputy in Warwick Council Chambers yesterday by council colleague Neil Meiklejohn.
Councillor Cameron Gow also nominated Vic Pennisi but a majority show of hands from councillors ultimately saw Cr McNally take the deputy position.
"I was told I would be nominated but I'm relieved and grateful that I had their support," she said.
"The role of deputy mayor is basically to fill in for the mayor when they're unable to attend civic functions or chair council meetings when the mayor is absent."
Cr McNally said two days of informal councillor workshops this week had helped to bring the five new councillors up to speed with the council agenda.
"Even with the basic stuff and meeting procedures, there's a lot to learn in council," she said.
"I think everyone wants to work for the community and put the region first and I'm really looking forward to working in support of the mayor and other councillors."
Mayor Tracy Dobie welcomed Cr McNally as her deputy.
"I'm really pleased with the appointment of Jo McNally," she said.
"I think it will be a really positive thing for us."
