BELLINGEN Shire Council has accepted the resignation of councillor and Deputy Mayor Ellie Tree.
In 2021, Cr Tree made history as the youngest councillor ever elected to Bellingen Shire Council.
“Being a councillor has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” said Cr Tree.
“I immersed myself fully in this role with a commitment to serve our community wholeheartedly and to the best of my ability.
“However, the structural realities of regional local government make it challenging for young, working women to sustain such roles.”
Alongside her Council role, Cr Tree works as a Community Impact Strategist at ShoreTrack, is pursuing a post graduate degree in Social Impact, and is a mother of three.
Mayor Steve Allan acknowledged Cr Tree’s impact and contribution, saying she will be “greatly missed”.
“It’s been a privilege to work alongside Ellie as Deputy Mayor and as a valued colleague on Council.
“Her ability to connect with the community – particularly through her communications on social media – has played an important role in keeping our residents informed and engaged.
“Through her support of initiatives like YOUth Speak, Ellie has helped bridge the gap between young people and Council decision-making.
“I want to sincerely thank her for her service, her compassion, and her enduring commitment to making the Shire a more inclusive and connected place.”
In accordance with Section 291A of the Local Government Act 1993, Council will refer the casual vacancy to the NSW Electoral Commission for a countback election.
This process allows for the vacancy to be filled by recounting votes from the last ordinary election, rather than holding a by-election.
