Like a number of locations across the state, residents across Warrumbungle Shire will not be heading to the polls on 14 September for the 2024 NSW Local Government elections.

With the number of nominations received for Warrumbungle Shire equalling the number of available seats, the election has been declared uncontested.

This outcome means that all nine nominated candidates are automatically elected to serve as the new councillors for the Shire.

The newly elected councillors are:

• Zoe Holcombe (Coonabarabran)

• Ray Lewis (Neilrex)

• Debra Bell (Mendooran)

• Kathy Rindfleish (Coolah)

• Dale Hogden (Dunedoo)

• Kodi Brady (Coonabarabran)

• Denis Todd (Baradine)

• Naomi Taylor (Coonabarabran)

• Jason Newton (Coonabarabran)

This Council represents a mix of experienced hands and new perspectives.

Returning to their roles are Zoe Holcombe, Kathy Rindfleish, Dale Hogden, Kodi Brady, Denis Todd, and Jason Newton.

Ray Lewis, a former Warrumbungle Shire Councillor, also returns, while newcomers Debra Bell and Naomi Taylor bring fresh energy and ideas to the table.

The new Council is noteworthy for its strong representation of women, with four women among the nine elected councillors.

The diverse backgrounds and experiences of the councillors ensure broad representation across the Shire’s communities, from Coonabarabran to Neilrex, Mendooran to Coolah, Dunedoo and Baradine.

Outgoing mayor, Cr Ambrose Doolan, along with Cr Aniello Iannuzzi and Cr Carlton Kopke, did not contest this election, marking the end of an era for the Shire’s leadership.

As the new team steps up, residents will be watching closely to see how this blend of continuity and change will shape the future of Warrumbungle Shire.

The uncontested election in Warrumbungle is part of a broader trend across NSW, with several other councils, including Berrigan, Cobar, and Cowra, also declaring uncontested elections.

Meanwhile, Berrigan, Cowra and Junee Councils and Lachlan – Ward E have received fewer candidate nominations than the number of councillors required for their councils, and a by-election will be held to fill those vacancies at a later date.

While this means residents in these areas won’t be voting in September, it also signals a smooth transition of leadership without the unpredictability of a contested election.

PHOTO: Incoming Warrumbungle Shire Councillor, Naomi Taylor, and continuing Councillor, Kodi Brady, joined by NSW Electoral returning officer, Jenn Sansom, following the ballot draw in Coonabararbran on Thursday, 15 August.