There is a new face in the MidCoast mayor’s chair, with Alan Tickle elected Mayor of MidCoast Council as the region’s federal MP keeps up the push for sustainable council funding.
Mayor Tickle was elected at the council’s Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 30 September. Deputy Mayor Jeremy Miller was re-elected to the role.
Cr Claire Pontin, the outgoing Mayor, will stay on as a councillor.
The pair were congratulated by Member for Lyne Alison Penfold.
“I look forward to working with Alan and Jeremy to advance the priorities of the MidCoast region and communities,” said Member for Lyne Alison Penfold.
“Alan brings extensive experience in local government and a longstanding commitment to the MidCoast community to his new role as Mayor.”
Cr Pontin was first elected to council in 2017 and was elected Mayor in January 2022, October 2023, and October 2024.
In its announcement, the council said her time as Mayor included supporting the region through natural disasters and recovery. She also helped secure funding for major infrastructure and recovery projects, including advocating for funding to replace Wingham Pool and a large road repair package.
“I also thank outgoing Mayor Claire Pontin for her dedication and efforts on behalf of our community over the past four plus years, particularly through the challenges of natural disasters and recovery,” Ms Penfold said.
Ms Penfold is Deputy Chair of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, which is running an inquiry into the financial sustainability of local government. She said sustainable council funding remained a priority in that role.
“With public hearings now complete, the committee is drafting its report,” Ms Penfold said.
“I appreciate the input from MidCoast Council and other councils across the Lyne electorate.”
“Local government is the tier of government closest to the people, with significant responsibilities for managing roads, bridges, community facilities and other essential assets.”
The new leadership team will serve for the next two years.
“Council congratulates Cr Tickle and Cr Miller on their appointments and looks forward to their leadership over the next two years,” the council stated.
“Councils need consistent and timely access to appropriate levels of funding to maintain those assets and deliver the services our communities rely on,” Ms Penfold said.
“I look forward to continuing to work with our local mayors and councils on this and other issues.”
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