MEDIA RELEASE - 30 January 2025
Published on 30 January 2025
On Friday, 24th of January 2025, Councillor Jill O’Grady resigned from her position on Oberon Council.
Although her tenure was brief, Jill was an active delegate on several Council committees, including the Joint Regional Planning Panel, Rural Fire Service Chifley Zone Liaison Committee, Black Springs Hall Committee, Finance Committee, Oberon Council Works Working Party as well as the delegate to the Central Tablelands Weeds Authority.
In considering her resignation, Jill stated:
"I have recently become aware that the promotion and advertising of my business, RedGround Truffles, by the Oberon Visitor Information Centre could be perceived as a conflict of interest under the guidelines set by the Office of Local Government. Our business relies heavily on the support of the Oberon Visitor Information Centre to promote our Agri-tourism and Farm Stay accommodation. As such, I have made the extremely difficult decision to resign as an Oberon Councillor. The position of a Councillor, representing the interests of the community and town, is both a privilege and a role that must be upheld to the highest standards. I therefore cannot jeopardise those standards, albeit perceived or otherwise. However, I remain committed to supporting Oberon’s success and look forward to contributing in other capacities.”
As a result of Jill’s resignation, Council will fill the vacant position through the Countback Election method, as resolved at it’s October 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting. This process will be conducted by the NSW Electoral Commission. For more information on this process, visit the NSW Electoral Commission website: Countback elections - NSW Electoral Commission
Council thanks Jill for her contribution to Oberon Council and wishes her every success in the future.
Andrew McKibbin
Mayor