December 5, 2023
Western Downs mayor Paul McVeigh has advised Council he will not be a candidate at the 2024 Local Government elections in March.
In a statement released on Monday, Mayor McVeigh said he had enjoyed the role and the honour of representing the Western Downs community since 2016.
“I am most proud of how our united Council has performed over the two terms of Council,” Mayor McVeigh said.
“Together we have grown the economic diversity of our region and continued to improve the liveability of our region.
“I thank my fellow councillors for their support and contribution to Western Downs Regional Council. Together we have met the challenges that are faced by a progressive Council planning for the future in today’s environment. We have also stood tall in times of adversity.
“I have enjoyed the pleasure of working with two great CEOs whose passion and capacity to make the Western Downs Regional Council such a strong organisation, has truly amazed me.
“I would like to thank our current councillors and councillors who have served in previous terms of Council for their dedication to their community that has allowed us to continue to grow the Western Downs Region.
“Also, for future councillors who through their dedication and capacity will shape the future of the Western Downs region.
“I am blessed with a truly amazing wife and family. Since becoming Mayor I have spent more time away from my wife Debbie than any other time in our married life of 45 years.
“I thank Deb and my family for their understanding and patience to let me contribute as Mayor to the Western Downs Community. It is now time to enjoy my family, not just as a husband, father and grandfather but also as a great-grandfather.
“Life’s good.”
Council CEO Jodie Taylor said the WDRC had achieved much during Cr McVeigh’s tenure as Mayor.
She said his “passion, knowledge, and business acumen” had helped cement Council’s reputation as a leading local government region in Australia.
“Over the past two terms Cr McVeigh has worked tirelessly to ensure economic stability and diversity on the Western Downs and has championed legacy projects and infrastructure to strengthen and improve the liveability of the region,” Ms Taylor said.
“Cr McVeigh has also led the region through some of its most challenging and tragic days, and through this adversity, has continued to spearhead real change and advocate for stronger outcomes for the Western Downs.
“We like to say ‘it’s the people that make it’ here on the Western Downs, and this statement couldn’t be truer for a man like Cr McVeigh, who, aside from his unwavering commitment to his role as Mayor, is an exceptional person with a heart of gold.
“On behalf of the Executive Leadership team and Western Downs Regional Council staff, I wish Cr McVeigh all the very best as he commences the next chapter of his life and enjoys more time with his wife, Deb and their family.”
