Former Launceston mayor Danny Gibson returns to council

Embattled former Launceston mayor Danny Gibson returned to council amid growing calls for his resignation. Here’s how it went.

Former Launceston mayor Danny Gibson. Picture: Facebook

Former Launceston mayor Danny Gibson has attended the first city council meeting for 2025 in the face of calls for him to resign.

Mr Gibson attended the meeting on Thursday despite the Mayor Matthew Garwood calling for his resignation for a second time over a series of allegations. The Mayor had also asked for Mr Gibson to resign in September 2024.

Former Launceston mayor Danny Gibson returns to council. Picture: Alison Foletta

Ahead of the meeting, Mr Garwood advised the gallery there were two counsellors from Laurel House available to anyone where issues raised in council may have upset people.

“They’re ready to assist anyone who might need to leave the chamber for any reason,” Mr Garwood said.

A series of questions were submitted by one member of the public, Jessica Hoyle, regarding the allegations against Mr Gibson. They included public relation fees and legal fees repayment, councillors’ code of conduct and Working with Vulnerable cards for councillors.

While not directed at Mr Gibson, another member of the public asked questions relating to the use of the council fund and council misconduct carried out in a “council-backed community organisation”.

These questions were put on notice for the next council meeting.

Cr Gibson has sought a leave of absence, however the detail were discussed in closed council.

Cr Gibson has remained silent on these allegations, but in social media post made on January 8, he wrote in a post he would not make “specific comments”, so he could remain “compliant with legislative requirements and framework”.