Advisor wraps up TCC tenure

Townsville City Council advisor Mr John Oberhardt, who was appointed by the then Director-General, Department of Housing, Local Government and Public Works in September 2024, completed his final day with Council yesterday.

Acting Mayor Ann-Maree Greaney said having an advisor appointed was a step in the right direction to getting the city back on track during a period of uncertainty.

“The advisor assisted Council and councillors in relation to governance areas, including relationship management of elected representatives and key senior staff, the provisions of good governance of council meetings and adherence to the relevant legislation,” Cr Greany said.

“Over the last six months we have built on our capacity to perform the duties that are expected of a functioning council, and I know my fellow councillors and I will lean on the guidance the advisor has left with us in the months and years to come.”

The advisor’s role was primarily focussed on capacity building, mediation and mentoring, with a key objective being to ensure the councillors, the chief executive officer and other key senior staff had a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities.

A particular focus was to ensure Council had in place and strictly adhered to transparent and ethical decision making processes in accordance with the provisions of good governance and relevant legislation.

Councillor Greaney said as elected officials the community expected results from their representatives.

“The advice to all councillors on matters, especially around governance over the last six months has been extremely valuable, particularly given the period of disruption and uncertainty the city has endured in the last year,” Cr Greaney said.

“The local government mentorship has been extremely valuable, and not just to first-time councillors, but to all ten who currently make up the Council, especially around our responsibilities and accountability as elected officials.

“This result is a sign the Queensland Government and Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers have recognised Townsville City Council is operating efficiently and effectively to the point where the advisor’s presence is no longer required.

“We know it is only through good governance, healthy relationships, and importantly strong leadership that we can continue to grow Townsville.”