Palmerston councillor Amber Garden resigns from council, as vacancy holes widen

Another Palmerston councillor has abruptly resigned from their role as an elected member, leaving the council with another hole to fill. Read the details.

Amber Garden (left) and Councillor Mark Fraser at the Freedom of Entry march, Palmerston. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Palmerston councillor Amber Garden has abruptly resigned from her role as an elected member, leaving the council with more holes to fill ahead of its election in August.

Ms Garden, an outspoken advocate for animal management by-laws in Palmerston, was first elected to the council in 2018 before being re-elected in 2021.

During her first term, she served as deputy mayor for 11 months.

According to a statement, released on Thursday, Ms Garden resigned because she was moving back to Queensland.

Her departure is understood to be for personal reasons.

City of Palmerston Councillor Amber Garden resigned on May 1, 2025. Picture: City of Palmerston website.

In the same statement, Ms Garden briefly spoke of her and the council’s accomplishments across the last seven years.

“I have seen the council grow and offer valuable services, events and facilities to the community,” she said.

“Highlights include SWELL, additional Dog Parks, Gray Community Hall, the implementation of our Animal Management By-Laws, and the Palmerston Youth Festival.”

Ms Garden has been sought for further comment.

Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell said it was a pleasure to work alongside Ms Garden.

“Her dedication to our community is evident,” she said.

Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

“Amber has been a strong voice for animal management by-laws in Palmerston and has built trust through informed decision-making.

“Council thanks Amber for her service and wishes her all the best in the future.”

City of Palmerston chief executive Andrew Walsh said Ms Garden was a “dedicated” and “passionate advocate” for the community.

“Her tireless work and commitment has contributed significantly to the growth and development of Palmerston,” he said.

“Her leadership, particularly in the areas of animal management, community engagement, have left a lasting impact.

Andrew Walsh has been appointed as the new CEO of City of Palmerston

“While council will miss her contribution, we understand and respect her decision to relocate to Queensland.”

Council is currently considering its options to fill the vacancy, it says, noting that Local Government elections are scheduled for August 2025.Ms Gardens sudden departure comes less than a month after councillor Danielle Eveleigh also resigned from the council.

Mr Walsh said the two resignations were unrelated.

Originally published as Palmerston councillor Amber Garden resigns from council, as vacancy holes widen