Golden Plains Shire Councillors re-elected Cr Owen Sharkey as Mayor of Golden Plains Shire for 2025/26 at a Council meeting held at the Golden Plains Civic Centre on Tuesday 11 November 2025.
Cr Sharkey will serve a second term as Mayor following his appointment as Mayor in May 2025.
At the same meeting, Councillors elected Cr Emma Robbins as Deputy Mayor for the 2025/26 term.
Assuming the role as Mayor, Cr Sharkey expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by his fellow Councillors and acknowledged those closest to him. He pledged to ensure every decision made continues to strengthen Golden Plains for those who call it home today, and for generations to come.
I am deeply humbled to stand before you as Mayor of Golden Plains Shire. This is a role of immense responsibility, and I am very aware that is it one that cannot be carried alone. I want to thank my fellow Councillors, Council staff, and the many community members who have contributed to our shared vision. Your dedication, collaboration, and professionalism set the standard for what good local government can achieve, Cr Sharkey said.
I commit to a Council willing to make tough decisions. We owe it to our residents to plan prudently, act decisively, and maintain the financial health of our Shire while continuing to deliver essential services, he said.
Community consultation will continue to play a critical role in how we shape our direction. Our residents expect to be heard, to be included, and to be respected in decision-making. Strong consultation builds trust, strengthens transparency, and ensures that the decisions we make reflect not only what is needed, but what is valued.
My commitment is simple: respect, accountability, and consistency. I look forward to working with my fellow Councillors as we continue serving the people who placed their trust in us.
Cr Robbins thanked her fellow Councillors for their confidence and support.
It's a privilege to serve as Deputy Mayor of Golden Plains Shire for the year ahead. I take this responsibility seriously, and I see it as an opportunity to help strengthen the way we work together – as a team, and as representatives of our community, Cr Robbins said.
I'm proud to be part of this Council and this Shire. Together, we have the chance to demonstrate that local government can be both responsible and responsive - careful with resources but ambitious for our future, she said.
The next Council meeting will be held on Tuesday 25 November at The Well in Smythesdale.