Matthew Magin resigns as chief executive of Balonne Shire Council

The chief executive of a South West Queensland council has resigned, less than two months after he was given a contract extension.

Matthew Magin’s tenure as Balonne Shire Council chief executive has come to an end after almost eight years.

The Balonne Shire Council is in a period of flux after their chief executive tendered his resignation on Monday, just months after his contract was extended.

Matthew Magin, who has held the top job in the Balonne Shire since November 2016, will resign as the chief executive, effective from August 30.

The announcement was made “regretfully” by Balonne Shire Council mayor, Samantha O’Toole, on August 5.

“Matthew Magin began his tenure as the chief executive officer of the council on November 7 2016 and has provided strong organisational management of the council throughout his term,” Ms O’Toole said.

“I would like to sincerely thank Matthew for his astute guidance and experience, which has helped our council team to deliver some outstanding achievements for our shire that have deservedly attracted multiple Awards for programs and initiatives.

“Balonne Shire Council will be immediately commencing a recruitment process for the appointment of a new chief executive officer.”

Ms O’Toole warned that finding a chief executive to fill Mr Magin’s boots could take some time, but said an interim chief executive would be appointed in the meantime.

“I would like to assure all residents that the day-to-day operations of council will continue business-as-usual while this transition occurs,” Ms O’Toole said.

The news comes two months after Mr Magin was offered a year-long extension to his contract.

Mr Magin is set to return to Northern Queensland as the Burdekin Shire chief executive.