General News
23 March, 2024
Deputy wins Douglas
THE future is female for Douglas Shire with deputy mayor Lisa Scomazzon expected to lead the council for the next four years.
With a total 3320 or 48.37 per cent of the unofficial preliminary count as at 11am on Wednesday, four-time shire councillor and deputy mayor has the top job despite a tight battle with fellow rival independent David Haratsis who garnered 3058 votes or 44.55 per cent with 74.30 per cent of all votes counted. Third contender Stacy Wilkinson had 7.08 per cent (486). Total votes counted were 7058 or 75.5 per cent of the total enrolment of 9348.
Despite a tough race, Cr Scomazzon said she was ready to get to work.
“It was a very close race but I think being honest and approachable has shown the community that I’m in a good position to take the role on,” she said.
“I’m honoured to have the community’s support in winning the seat.
“My two priorities are to ensure that the rebuild of the infrastructure from Cyclone Jasper and the floods are full steam ahead and I’m advocating for getting the jobs completed, also to work with the new councillors as a cohesive team and engage in better interaction with the community.
“I am looking forward to getting to work for the betterment of this shire with the help from the new councillor team.”
Councillors Roy Zammataro (12.49 per cent, 3368 votes) and Abigail Noli (11.34 per cent, 3057) are likely to return to the shire council chambers. Four councillors are required.
Other strong possibilities are Damian Meadows (12.53 per cent, 3379), Michael Rees (9.37 per cent, 2525) and Jeremy Blockey (9.31 per cent, 2509).
Others are Bill Allison (8.58 per cent, 2312), Chris Barber (8.15 per cent, 2196), Cr Peter McKeown (7.63 per cent cent, 2057), Pia McKeown (7.19 per cent, 1939), Terry Melchert (6.17 per cent, 1664), Peter Wood (3.84 per cent, 1035) and Sara Mulcahy (3.4 per cent, 917).
