After one term on the council, Tarria Moore has indicated she will not be nominating for the September 14 election.
“No, I am not running again much to the disappointment of an overwhelming amount of supporters and I thank them for that,” she said.
“However much I have loved the role in local government and being a part of our ERC team, the amount of appalling behaviour of some councillors, after hours and behind closed doors, has affected me personally, wasted precious time of our short term and effectively cost the community in more ways than one.
“It would be great for our community to have a choice of contenders.
“I hope that anyone considering running in this election has considered their availability of time, resilience to personal and public scrutiny and the impact it can have on your mental health.
“A phone call or catchup with each and every councillor will be of great benefit to you in the lead up.
“Your only agenda should be for the betterment of the community as a whole.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute working alongside Peta, Linda and Shannon and I wish them the very best in the upcoming election. You are all an inspiration.”
Councillor Pat Fogarty confirmed last week she would not be seeking re-election, bringing to an end a career in local government which started in 1995 (see page 7).
Current Mayor Peta Betts told the Pastoral Times she is still considering her options, and Deputy Mayor Marc Petersen has said he needs to weigh up his professional obligations as a nurse and his family and personal commitments.
“Time moves incredibly quickly and life is unpredictable, and I do not want to over commit and risk letting anyone down,” he said.
Cr Harold Clapham has not yet revealed his intention to the Pastoral Times, saying he would not be able to respond to our questions until after July 29.
Councillors Shirlee Burge, Linda Fawns and Shannon Sampson have all confirmed they will be nominating as candidates.
The Pastoral Times is only aware of one other potential candidate so far, with Deniliquin business owner David ‘Baron’ Schoeffel confirming his intentions late last week.
Nominations for the 2024 local government elections close on August 14, with ballot draws to take place the following day. For more information or to nominate, go to elections.nsw.gov.au. Prospective candidates are invited to contact Zoe McMaugh on 5881 2322 or by emailing zoe.mcmaugh@denipt.com.au.
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