West Arnhem Regional Council: New CEO unveiled after predecessor’s booze scandal

Six months after its previous CEO was given his marching orders for taking alcohol into a dry community for a night on the turps with colleagues, this NT council has a new leader.

Andrew Walsh, formerly of East Arnhem Regional Council, has been unveiled as the new chief executive of West Arnhem Regional Council. Picture: Supplied

Six months after its previous chief executive was given his marching orders for allegedly taking alcohol into a dry community for a night on the turps with colleagues, West Arnhem Regional Council has unveiled a new leader.

In a statement on Friday, council revealed Andrew Walsh, who was most recently the director of community development at East Arnhem Regional Council, would commence in his new role on March 4.

“With a notable career across multiple levels and sectors, Andrew joins the council with a wealth of experience and a profound dedication to enhancing community wellbeing,” the council said in its statement.

“His appointment marks a promising new chapter in West Arnhem Regional Council’s mission to foster regional prosperity and development.

Aerial view of Maningrida, where former council CEO Paul Hockings came unstuck. Picture: Natash Emeck

“Andrew is an authentic leader and has a strong history of fostering a workplace culture where staff feel valued and engaged, prioritising delivery across the region, and ensuring the vibrant communities continue to thrive.

“Andrew’s commitment to service delivery is further highlighted by his Masters-level tertiary qualifications, blending academic principles with practical experience to lead the council towards a future of sustainability, innovation, and enhanced community leadership.”

Mr Walsh said his ascension to chief executive was an honour.

“Having served in East Arnhem for the past decade, I am truly humbled by the opportunity to now serve the people of West Arnhem,” he said.

Former West Arnhem Regional Council chief executive Paul Hockings. Picture: WARC

West Arnhem Mayor Matthew Ryan described Mr Walsh as the “ideal choice” to move council forward.

“Andrew’s appointment marks an exciting time for West Arnhem Regional Council,” he said.

For the past six months, West Arnhem has been led by a series of interim chief executives after its former leader, Paul Hockings, was terminated in ignominy.

The NT News previously reported that Mr Hockings and seven other council staff, all of whom were slapped with infringement notices by NT Police, took booze into the dry community of Maningrida to unwind after completing cultural awareness training.