Fraser Coast councillor David Lewis announces retirement

A Fraser Coast councillor of eight years has opened up on the highs and lows of his career as he confirms his plans ahead of the 2024 election.

Councillor David Lewis has announced his retirement. Photo: Stuart Fast

A long-serving Fraser Coast councillor will not contest the March local government election, saying it is “time for a refresh” for council and his division.

Fraser Coast Regional Council Division 6 councillor of eight years David Lewis has announced he will not re-contest the seat and instead retire next year.

As well as representing his division, Mr Lewis also chairs a number of committees including the Rail Trail Advisory, Environment Advisory, Arts and Culture Advisory and the Regional Arts and Development Fund.

He also serves on the Heritage Advisory Committee.

Mr Lewis has also been heavily involved in developing plans for a new library and administration building in Pialba.

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“I am particularly pleased that we have been able to get the Mary to Bay Rail Trail back on track,” Mr Lewis said.

“Further, I am delighted with the progress we have made in the arts.

“Hervey Bay Regional Gallery is refurbished and re-energised, and our National Art Prize, Girra, has had its first iteration and promises to put Fraser Coast on the national map. At the same time, Gatakers Artspace in Maryborough is now a major hub.

“I was delighted to inaugurate the writers’ festival Lines in the Sand which continues with much promise.

“We have had the opportunity to hear from some of Australia’s leading writers and strengthen our relationship with the University of Sunshine Coast.

Councillor for Division 6 David Lewis

“I am also proud to be a major part of the push to ensure that the Hervey Bay Library gets adequate space in the new library an administration building.”

Mr Lewis said arts and culture must be seen as an essential part of council’s core business.

“These pursuits lead directly to better educational outcomes for our residents, especially children, with a consequent flow-on to better job prospects and prosperity,” he said.

Another major focus of Mr Lewis’ time as a councillor has been the environment.

“While there is still so much to achieve, I am glad to be leaving it in a much better place than I found it,” he said.

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“I thank everyone for giving me the honour to serve our community, and in particular thanks to my wife Susan for supporting me and filling my life with great ideas.

“I hope whoever succeeds me in Division 6 can carry on and develop these themes and projects.

“Indeed my hope is that the whole new council will have a renewed enthusiasm for the sorts of things that will make the Fraser Coast region a better place to live.”

Mr Lewis’ announcement comes after Division 9 councillor David Lee was confirmed as the LNP’s candidate for Hervey Bay, meaning he will also not contest the next council election.

Division 5 councillor Jade Wellings also confirmed she will not run again.

In August, the region was left shocked by the sudden resignation of Division 7 councillor Darren Everard.

Ms Wellings made a statement on Monday thanking Mr Lewis for his service.

“While David and I often found ourselves on opposite sides of the table when it comes to various issues, in the realm of local government, it is the diversity of thought and ideas that often leads to the most well-rounded and informed decisions,” she said.

“David has been a diligent and dedicated representative for Division 6, offering valuable insights and perspectives during our decision-making processes and I have valued the opportunity to work alongside David.

“I wish him all the best in his retirement and hope he will enjoy this next chapter with family and friends.”