One-term Tenterfield Shire councillor Mary Leahy says she enjoyed the cut and thrust of debating issues in the council chamber, and would happily have put up her hand to run again had poor health not curtailed her career in local politics.
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Ms Leahy along with fellow councillors from the previous term Toni Hull, Carol Schiffmann and Blair Maxwell were formally thanked for their contributions at the last council meeting, although Ms Leahy was the only one in attendance.
Cr Petty read from a letter sent by Mrs Hull saying it was not necessary for her to receive recognition for her service.
“It was entirely my honour and pleasure,” she said.
“The opportunity to serve provided a wonderful learning experience on local government and the role of councillors, and I’d recommend the experience to anyone.”
Cr Petty presented a certificate of appreciation to Ms Leahy, thanking her for her passion and dedication to the role.
“I thoroughly enjoyed by time serving as a councilors and would have loved to continue, but health stood in the way,” she said.
“I put a fair bit of effort into research and bringing the results of that to council, and hope the mayor will still have lots of motions to take to Canberra and elsewhere.
“The other thing I really loved is helping people.”
I didn’t mind the politics and arguments in council either.
- Mary Leahy
Ms Leahy said she enjoyed assisting members of the community, not only in her ward C but also in town.
“And I didn’t mind the politics and arguments in council either.
“Thanks for the opportunity. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it.”
Ms Leahy said it takes a considerable amount of time and effort but she recommends running for a councillor position if a candidate feels for the good of Tenterfield Shire, including the rural areas as well as the town.
“(Do it) if you have a broad view and want to work for the betterment of Tenterfield Shire.”
