Councillor Peter Pangquee elected president of NT local government peak body in dark horse victory
Darwin councillor Peter Pangquee has claimed a surprise victory as Northern Territory's local government chief, defeating two sitting mayors for the influential role.
A Darwin councillor has been named president of the local government peak body, the dark horse contender beating out high profile hopefuls for the top job.
Peter Pangquee was announced as Local Government Association of the Northern Territory (LGANT) president at its annual general meeting on Thursday.
Mr Pangquee replaces former Darwin Lord Mayor Kon Vatskalis after five years in the role, and defeated current Darwin and Palmerston mayors Peter Styles and Athina Pascoe-Bell who both put their hands up for the position.
Mr Pangquee has served as a City of Darwin Chan Ward councillor since 2017 and a LGANT board member since 2018.
He said the next 12 months would focus on building capability, driving reform, and strengthening the voice of local government.
“Councils across the Territory are facing complex challenges, from workforce pressures to the reforms shaping how local government operates, but through LGANT we will tackle them together,” Mr Pangquee said.
“In many remote areas, councils are the only level of government people have direct contact with, and that’s a responsibility we share with pride. Together, we’re ready to get on with the job of delivering for councils and the people they serve.
“It’s a privilege to lead LGANT alongside a dedicated group of local leaders.”
Two new LGANT municipal board directors were also appointed, Katherine Mayor Joanna Holden and Palmerston councillor Mark Fraser.
The annual general meeting also marked the City of Palmerston’s return to LGANT membership - in part driven by Mayor Pascoe-Bell’s interest in the president position.
Mayor Syles’ attempt was thwarted at the first pass, receiving just one vote in 13 when Darwin councillors decided who to endorse as their nominee.
LGANT chief executive Mary Watson said the incoming board was well placed to build on the organisation’s advocacy achievements and sector leadership.
“The board will continue LGANT’s work to ensure councils have the resources, recognition and relationships they need to deliver essential services and drive community growth,” Ms Watson said.
Women in Northern Territory councils gain national support as key body returns
Meanwhile, women serving in local government across the Northern Territory will now have direct access to national leadership programs, mentoring and peer support through the re-establishment of the NT branch of the Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA).
Announced on Wednesday at the LGANT conference, the move reconnects the Territory with ALGWA’s national network and expands the professional development and advocacy opportunities available to women in councils.
Female leadership is strong in the NT, with women serving as seven of the 18 mayors or presidents, and nine of the 18 council chief executives.
ALGWA is the national peak body supporting women in local government.
Local Government Association of the NT vice president municipals Allison Bitar said the announcement marked a proud opportunity for councils to strengthen connection and capability.
“Women in the Territory play a vital role in local government, and now they’ll have access to practical support and a national network that strengthens their contribution,” Ms Bitar said.
“We’re delighted to see ALGWA NT re-established. It’s a positive step for councils, communities and leadership across the Territory.”
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Originally published as Councillor Peter Pangquee elected president of NT local government peak body in dark horse victory
