Richmond Valley residents voted for change with Ernie Bennett chosen to replace fellow Independent Col Sullivan as Mayor.
Meanwhile votes are still trickling in, but Country Labor’s Jenny Dowell has already secured her second term as Mayor of Lismore.
In Casino, there was bitter disappointment for Col Sullivan – who lost his position as Mayor to Ernie Bennett.
“I say congratulations to Ernie, he’s experienced in Local Government and we welcome him to the Richmond Valley. A little disappointed in the results of course.”
An Independent also, Ernie has been a local all his life and says he’s glad to have strong support in the polls – he claimed more than 45 per cent of first preferences.
“I’m stoked, I guess the people have spoken and I feel humbled actually to get such a high percentage”
He’ll officially take on the role as Mayor of Richmond Valley later this week.
Meanwhile Newly re-elected Mayor Jenny Dowell is happy with the results, claiming more than half of the primary vote in the Lismore City Council electorate.
“To win over 54% of the primary vote is an enormous I guess endorsement of my style of being Mayor.”
The Country Labour councillor says she’ll now work with the those elected to tackle the big issues in the area.
And it seems Coal Seam Gas drilling is one of the biggest for Lismore voters.
They also had the chance to vote on the practice – 89% giving it the thumbs down.
“A fantastic result and we can now take it to the Coal Seam Gas companies but also to the State and Federal government.”
