First-time Clarence Valley Council candidate Cristie Yager takes lion’s shares of votes in NSW local government elections

Don’t let the dreads and tatts fool you. Cristie Yager may be a Clarence Valley Council rookie but she’s got some serious clout with voters – her “old school values” a hit in Saturday’s polling.

Cristie Yager, Violet Yager and Bella Yager at the polling booths in Ulmarra on September 14 2024.

Fifth-generation Ulmarra resident and Clarence Valley Council candidate Cristie Yager is leading local election results with a meteoric rise as a first-timer.

And don’t let the dreads and tatts fool you – her “old school values” and strong community engagement were a major hit for the Independent council candidate in Saturday’s polling.

At time of publication, Ms Yager had 14.89 per cent of votes in the Clarence Valley Council local election, almost five per cent ahead of voters’ next favourite — Independent Peter Johnstone on 10.23 per cent, closely followed in third place by Greens candidate Greg Clancy (10.22 per cent).

Ms Yager is beloved in the Clarence community, saying she always has the time of day for a bit of banter with the locals.

“I care about people and listen to them and go beyond potholes and value what they have to say,” Ms Yager said.

“I really like everyone – everyone is important equally and I think maybe that comes across.”

Team Yager: Back row left to right Aaron Hickson, Barrie Yager, Violet Yager, Middle row Sophie Yager, Cristie Yager, Chase Peru, Front row Buddy Yager, Molly Yager and Bella Yager.

Combining her traditional values with a keen skillset in social media, a seven-month long campaign and visiting community hubs has formulated a solid recipe for Ms Yager’s success.

In Clarence Valley Council, the mayor is elected by sitting council at an extraordinary meeting rather than a popular public vote.

But the business owner and mum of six said despite her popularity, she won’t be putting her hand up for mayor just yet but “perhaps one day”.

“I’d just love to do a good job for now in council,” she said.

“It’s like a beautiful burden and a lot of pressure but I feel responsible to get a positive vibe happening,” she said.

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