Alex Benn declared new Balonne councillor after unopposed in by-election

The Balonne region’s newest councillor has officially been declared following the resignation of his predecessor last year, with the long-time resident revealing his biggest focus leading into his term.

Long-time Balonne resident Alex Benn has been declared the region’s newest councillor, after standing unopposed in Wednesday’s by-election.

Mr Benn stood will replace former councillor Ian Todd, who resigned in September 2022 citing personal reasons.

The newly-declared councillor will be sworn in and begin his term before the upcoming council meeting on November 17.

Mr Benn, who has lived in St George for 15 years, works in health administration at a local practice and is passionate about education, something he said he wanted to focus on in his term.

“I just want to support council with projects they’re currently working on,” he said.

“I’ve been invested for a long time in seeing education development in our shire for primary and high school, so I want to continue doing that.

“Following councillor Todd’s resignation, I thought it was perfect timing to put my hand up.

Mr Benn said the timing of the opportunity was perfect, arising at a time where he was well position to fulfil the required duties.

The Balonne Shire Council described Mr Benn as a well-known and respected member of the community, with business interests in medical services and primary production.

He is also a board member of the Country Universities Centre Balonne.

The date he will be sworn in is yet to be confirmed, but he said it was likely to be next week.

Mayor Samantha O’Toole welcomed the news and said she was looking forward to formally welcoming him to the team.

“We are pleased with the result and the quick resolution, which means we will be able to get on with the business of delivering for our shire as quickly as possible,” she said.

Election information and the results are available on Balonne Shire Council’s website, as well as the ECQ’s website at ecq.qld.gov.au.

The next council election will be held in March, 2024.