By Amanda Wright
Greg Williamson has secured his position as Mayor of the Mackay region for a third consecutive term, following the formal declaration of his victory by the Electoral Commission of Queensland last week. Williamson first served as Mackay's mayor from 1991 to 1994 before returning to public office in 2016.
After preferences were distributed, Williamson emerged with 51.56 per cent and Steve Jackson with 48.44 per cent in a tight race after third candidate Laurence Bonaventura conceded.
Expressing gratitude, Mayor Williamson said it is an absolute honour to be re-elected as the Mayor of the Mackay Regional Council.
“We have so much to be proud of in this region and you have my word that I will work tremendously hard with the newly appointed Council.”
He extended his thanks to the voters across the region for their confidence in his leadership, emphasising his commitment to continuing the growth and prosperity of the area.
Acknowledging the competitive election, Mayor Williamson recognised the unique group now assembled around the council table, foreseeing a term filled with potential.
"With the rough and tumble of the election campaign behind us and the will of the people placing a diverse, energetic group around the council table, I am sure it is going to be a great term,” he said.
"With six new councillors elected, this new term allows for fresh ideas and reflection of the changes our communities are calling for, it is my intent to welcome feedback and influence change in the areas that the local council can impact.
“There will be new and diverse opportunities around the table with a mix of new enthusiasm and experience.
“After talking with many of the newly elected councillors last week, I can see that everyone has the same primary motivation, to deliver the best result for the people of Mackay and work together as a united council, which is fantastic," he said.
Appreciating the support received during the drawn-out vote-counting process, Mayor Williamson conveyed his gratitude to his family for their unwavering backing throughout his journey in public service.
“Thank you to Annette, our son and daughter and their partners, and our extended family, who have provided incredible support - not just for this campaign, but for my entire journey in public life.”
The official swearing-in of elected officials was scheduled to take place yesterday, on Thursday, April 4th, followed by the council's statutory meeting next Wednesday, where the deputy mayor would be elected and statutory requirements set.
Mayor Williamson expressed eagerness for upcoming projects, including the official opening of the Finch Hatton mountain bike trails.
"After seeing the usage so far, it's clear these trails have been very well accepted by the community," he remarked.
Mayor Greg Williamson thanked his family for their support of his mayoral campaign and his time in public office, pictured with his wife Annette and their son Dean, daughter Leigh and Dean and Leigh’s partners. Photo supplied
