Council will welcome Gail Babbage back as a Councillor following the recent resignation of Deputy Mayor Ash Walker by enacting the countback provision, avoiding an unnecessary and costly by-election.
At its first Council meeting of this election term held on 8 October 2024, Council resolved to use a countback election to fill any casual councillor vacancies occurring within the first 18 months after the election. This process is set out under section 291A of the Local Government Act 1993 and administered by the NSW Electoral Commission.
At the recent September 2025 Ordinary Council meeting, Cr Ash Walker announced his resignation as Deputy Mayor and Councillor, with his final day of service being 21 October 2025.
Mayor Cr Doug Batten thanked Cr Walker for his dedication and expertise across thirteen years of service to Council and his contributions to the Gilgandra Region.
"It has been a privilege to work alongside Ash over the past thirteen years. During this time, he has not only been a fellow councillor, but also a trusted confidant. He has given countless hours of his time in service to our community, not only through his work around the Council table but also through his strong presence within the community."
Adding,
"We are in the very fortunate position to enact the countback process and welcome Gail back as a Councillor. Gail served from 2020 to 2024 and brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience, which will allow her to fit seamlessly back into Council processes."
Council resolved to formally acknowledge and accept Cr Walker's resignation. The resignation will be confirmed with the NSW Electoral Commission to begin the countback process.
A countback election is not a new public vote. Instead, it uses the ballot papers from the most recent Council election (September 2024) to identify which unelected candidate, who is not already a councillor, will fill the vacancy.
Former Councillor, Gail Babbage is on the ballot draw list and has confirmed her willingness to re-stand. The countback process must be completed within 49 days of the vacancy being declared. With Cr Walker's resignation taking effect on 21 October, Council is expecting Gail to be sworn in as a Councillor at the November Ordinary Council meeting.
