Gilgandra Shire Council is delighted to announce the appointment of Kathryn Larkin as its permanent General Manager, following a recruitment process supported by specialist local government executive recruitment firm Leading Roles.
Ms Larkin has served as Interim General Manager since 31 July 2026 and brings extensive knowledge of Council operations, strong community relationships and a clear vision for the organisation's future.
Mayor Nick White said Council was excited to confirm Ms Larkin's appointment at an important time for the Gilgandra Region.
"Kathryn brings the leadership, energy and drive to take Council forward, and we have every confidence in her ability to deliver for our community," Cr White said.
"She knows our organisation, understands our region and has strong relationships with the people who live and work here. She combines that local knowledge with a clear focus on what Council can achieve and how we get there.
"We have an exciting period ahead, with major investments and strategic initiatives continuing across the Shire. Kathryn's leadership will give us the stability, continuity and momentum to turn those opportunities into lasting benefits for our community."
Council's priorities include construction of the new Sewer Treatment Plant, continued development of the Hunter Park Precinct and implementation of its Digital Transformation ICT Roadmap. Ongoing investment in aged care and disability services includes new staff accommodation to support workforce attraction and retention. Council will also build on the 2026 Goin' to Gil Festival Weekend and Under the Gums through its review of this year's events and planning for 2027.
"These projects represent a significant investment in our region's future, from essential infrastructure to community facilities and services that support people at every stage of life," Cr White said.
"Kathryn is passionate about this work and ready to lead it. We are delighted to have her at the helm as we continue delivering on our community's priorities and our ambition to grow the region Towards 5000."
Ms Larkin said she was excited to lead Council into its next chapter, with teamwork and collaboration central to her approach.
"There is so much opportunity ahead for Gilgandra, and I am proud to lead an organisation that plays such an important role in our region's future," Ms Larkin said.
"We have a capable, committed team, and the best outcomes come from working together as a Council and with our community. My focus is on supporting our team, keeping projects moving and making sure our community can see and understand the progress we are making."
For Ms Larkin, the appointment also reflects a personal commitment to the place she and her family call home.
"Gilgandra is home for my family, and raising my boys here gives me a personal connection to the work we do. Like so many families in our region, I want our children to grow up in a community where they feel connected, supported and excited about their future."
Strengthening communication between Council and the community, progressing the Hunter Park Precinct and delivering Council's broader infrastructure priorities will be key areas of focus for Ms Larkin.
"An important part of my role is making considered decisions, managing our resources responsibly and being open about our priorities, finances and progress. We need to balance our ambitions with what we can realistically deliver, while always keeping the long-term interests of our community in mind", she said.
"I'm keen to build on how we communicate with our community, with a focus on sharing information and creating more opportunities for people to ask questions and share their ideas."
Ms Larkin said she was looking forward to building on the progress already made across the organisation and region.
"I'm thankful for the opportunity and support I've received from Councillors, colleagues and our community. I'm proud of what we've achieved together, and I'm excited about what we can accomplish together next."
Ms Larkin joined Council in 2017 and has held a range of leadership roles across the organisation. Her permanent appointment takes effect on Monday 26 October, 2026.
