Brett Cunningham resigns from Golden Plains council effective immediately

A Golden Plains councillor accused of fostering a “toxic environment” has departed, making him the second to do so in six months.

Golden Plains Shire are on the hunt for a new councillor after a former mayor resigned in early May. Picture: Alison Wynd

Controversial Golden Plains councillor Brett Cunningham has resigned from council effective immediately due to personal reasons.

On Monday afternoon, the former mayor told council he was stepping away from the role, citing a desire to “prioritise the health and wellbeing” of himself and his family.

It is the rural council’s second resignation in six months after councillor Lachlan Glen stood down a month after local government elections in December 2024.

They are also without their senior leaders after former chief executive Shane Walden departed in February this year and mayor Sarah Hayden remains on leave after a contentious Las Vegas trip.

Mr Cunningham said he was appreciative of the people he had worked with in his five year tenure.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the amazing and dedicated council staff, senior management, directors, and past and present chief executive officers for the continued support, guidance and assistance provided to me from the first day of becoming a councillor,” he said.

“I wish my fellow councillors all the best for the future and in their roles of being elected representatives and advocates of the residents and communities of the Golden Plains Shire.”

Former Golden Plains Shire mayor Brett Cunninham resigned from council overnight. Picture: Supplied

Acting mayor Helena Kirby said Mr Cunningham had always championed the needs of the region.

“Council acknowledges and appreciates Cr Cunningham’s contributions to both council and the wider community,” Cr Kirby said.

Golden Plains council will consult with the Victorian Electoral Commission to determine the best way to fill the vacant spot.

Following the resignation of Mr Glen in December 2024, a vote countback was initiated to elect a new councillor.

Teesdale local and Greens member Gavin Gamble, whose re-election bid was initially unsuccessful, was subsequently reinstated as a result.

Gavin Gamble joined Golden Plains council after Lachlan Glen resigned. Picture: Supplied

Elected in 2020, Mr Cunningham served as mayor from 2023-24.

At the end of his term, he was accused of creating a “toxic environment” by former councillor Les Rowe, who insisted Mr Cunningham stand down.

And just last month, Mr Cunningham was forced to apologise to councillor Owen Sharkey for attacking him over social media.

Don’t expect Mr Cunningham to disappear completely, however.

“Going forward, I will remain an active committee member of local community groups, allowing me to continue to volunteer and contribute my time and commitment to the community,” he said.

Originally published as Brett Cunningham resigns from Golden Plains council effective immediately