New deputy mayor for Narrabri Shire

The Narrabri Shire has a new deputy mayor – Councillor Cameron Staines.

Cr Staines was elected unopposed when he put his hand up for the position of deputy mayor at Tuesday’s council meeting.

“I would like to thank Councillor Robert Kneale for his dedication and loyalty to Narrabri Shire for the last 12 months,” said Cr Staines.

Cr Staines has been a councillor since 2016 when he received the most votes of any councillor elected.

He previously served as deputy mayor in 2016.

Cr Staines is a truck driver who said he first ran for council to ‘put a young person’s perspective in the game’ and because of his passion for the Inland Rail project.

He is often advocating for workers and the residents of villages around Narrabri, in council meetings.

“This next year is very exciting for the whole Narrabri shire,” Cr Staines said.

“And as deputy mayor, I will be giving 100 per cent dedication and commitment to all communities across the Shire to ensure that we gain every opportunity that this current Council can obtain.

“Our Inland Port is gaining traction fast – this will create hundreds of jobs in the construction phase, and the same for permanent employment when constructed.

“And if the Santos project is approved, and with the Northern NSW Inland Port – we will be a global attraction bringing big industry to our region.

“Alongside of the Inland Port, there is the inland rail where council and councillors have been working hard to make sure that local small businesses, contractors and labourers don’t miss out on this mammoth construction.

“This last three years, we have really made Narrabri a talking point and put the Nararbri region on the map with pollies and industries.

“Our towns and villages have been getting makeovers and we’re doing our best to give the people a more relaxing and enjoyable lifestyle.

“And we haven’t finished yet.

“Thank you for letting me represent you for the last three years.

“I’d like to give the same commitment again for this year and be re-elected for another term.”