Lea Parker and Ben Hooper retain mayor and deputy roles at Greater Hume
Lea Parker and Ben Hooper were re-elected as mayor and deputy at Greater Hume Council by a 5-3 vote on September 16.
Lea Parker has retained the mayor's role and Ben Hooper the deputy's position at Greater Hume Council after a 5-3 vote on September 16. Parker and Hooper were supported by councillors Jenny O'Neil, Brian Liston and Kerry Morton.
Parker and Hooper faced challenges from Ash Lindner (mayor) and Matt Hicks (deputy), who were backed by Tony Quinn. Councillor Annette Schilg was absent.
Parker said the team has some unfinished business and plans for sustainability, growth and tourism across the shire. The council also debated a new NSW government planning rule that lets low-risk developments like single homes, sheds and pools skip public consultation, speeding up approvals for these builds.
- 5-3
- Re-election vote
- September 16, 2026
- Vote date
- Jenny O'Neil, Brian Liston, Kerry Morton
- Council seats supporting incumbents
- September 1, 2026
- Planning rule change effective date
Why it mattersCouncil leadership determines how local rates are spent and how development rules are applied; Parker's re-election signals continuity on growth and tourism strategy.
AustraliaGreater Hume Council's decisions affect residents in Jindera, Culcairn, Holbrook, Henty and Walwa as the shire pursues housing and industrial growth.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 8 d ago
