Highlands mayor stands down

Deirdre Flint

THE State Government has tonight paid tribute to Deirdre Flint following her decision to resign as mayor and councillor with the Central Highlands Council due to ill-health. It is understood Mrs Flint's resignation took effect immediately after today's council meeting.

"On behalf of the Government, I would like to thank Deirdre Flint for her tireless service to the Tasmanian community and especially the Central Highlands," State Treasurer and Local Government Minister Peter Gutwein said.

"Mayor Flint has been an extraordinary representative of her community. A councillor since 1996 and mayor since 2002, Deirdre has also played leading roles in various organisations such as the Hamilton Agricultural Show Society, the CWA, the Red Cross, the Launceston Chamber of Commerce and the Premier’s Local Government Council, to name but a few," Mr Gutwein said. "Deirdre has also made significant contributions to the Liberal Party both at a state and federal level."

"As Deputy Mayor Andrew Downie is currently on leave, Cr Lana Benson has been appointed Acting Mayor. The Electoral Commission will now work with the Central Highlands Council to conduct a by-election to fill the council vacancy," Mr Gutwein said.

Cr Benson was elected to the council in April via a by-election following the resignation of Cr Evan Evans.