Port Stephens Council has welcomed its new Councillors during the Oaths of Office ceremony at last night's first meeting of the term.
Back row: Councillor Nathan Errington, Councillor Jason Wells, Councillor Mark Watson, Councillor Peter Francis, Councillor Paul Le Mottee.
Front row: Councillor Ben Niland, Councillor Chris Doohan, Mayor Leah Anderson, Councillor Giacomo Arnott, Councillor Roz Armstrong.
Mayor Leah Anderson said it's exciting to have the new Council on board, ready for their 4 year term.
"I know they're ready to hit the ground running and deliver on their priorities," Mayor Anderson said.
Although the group of 10 elected Councillors are only beginning their official duties at this first meeting, they've been working together over the past few weeks to learn more about the foundations of Port Stephens Council.
"Our Council has almost 600 staff and delivers 60 service packages to our community – it's a big business and there's a lot to learn," Mayor Anderson said.
"Over the last few weeks, the Councillors and I have attended detailed induction sessions, meeting senior staff and learning more about their services.
"It's been great to have the opportunity to set the scene and get these foundations in place," she added.
Along with Mayor Leah Anderson, the group includes first time Councillors Ben Niland, Mark Watson, Nathan Errington and Roz Armstrong with Giacomo Arnott, Peter Francis, Chris Doohan, Paul Le Mottee and Jason Wells as returning Councillors.
As the first item for the Council meeting, Councillor Jason Wells was elected as Deputy Mayor for 2025, with Councillor Chris Doohan elected for 2026, Councillor Nathan Errington for 2027 and Councillor Giacomo Arnott for 2028.
"Having spent the last 3 years on Council, I know how challenging the role can be, but I also know how rewarding it can be," Mayor Anderson said.
"I know that each and every one of our Councillors wants to see the best possible outcomes for the community of Port Stephens.
"Our community wants a Council that listens, learns, and works together.
"As Mayor, I'll work hard to lead a team focused on delivering outcomes that make Port Stephens a better place to live, work, and visit," Mayor Anderson added.
The elected Port Stephens Councillors are:
Mayor Leah Anderson
Central Ward
- Councillor Ben Niland
- Councillor Chris Doohan
- Councillor Jason Wells
East Ward
- Councillor Mark Watson
- Councillor Nathan Errington
- Councillor Roz Armstrong
You can learn about the Mayor and Councillors at portstephens.nsw.gov.au/council/mayor-and-councillors
