No groups are contesting the 8 seats of Walcha’s small but effective council, with the previous ward system abandoned this election after being voted out in a 2021 referendum. The bruising community debate around wind farms has clearly had an impact, with six of the eight councillors not recontesting their council seats – only Mayor Eric Noakes and Anne-Marie Pointing continuing on – and a number of figures both for and against the REZ developments on the ballot.
All candidates are shown in the order they will appear on the ballot. Candidate biographies are only included from those candidates who have supplied them.
See the NSW Electoral Commission’s website for where and how to vote information.
O’BRIEN Glen About Experienced Proprietor & Managing Director with a Strong Background in Civil Engineering and Construction Management. With a deep-rooted passion for civil engineering and construction management, I have established, grown and led numerous successful businesses, including Oxley Civil, TOBCO and OTG Energy. My achievements include securing 3rd place in the “2016 Financial Review Fast 100” list, reflecting my dedication to excellence in business operations, technical civil engineering, IT implementation for streamlined activities and cost control. My strength lies in solving complex problems and driving business growth through innovation and strategic leadership. I have strong ties to the New England region, having grown up in Arding. After completing high school, I moved to Sydney to obtain a Civil Engineering Degree. Specialising in Civil Engineering Construction, I had the privilege of working on varied projects across Australia. I met my wife, Pippie (Lee) O’Brien, a proud 4th generation Walcha resident in Armidale. Together, we spent 8.5 years in Sydney, renovating homes, expanding our family and building several companies. In 2020, we made the decision to return to Walcha, driven by our desire to have our children grow up in the region and for Pippie to return to working in Agriculture. We wanted our kids to experience the same opportunities and quality of life that we enjoyed during our own childhoods. Our love for the Walcha area is profound, and we are proud to call it home. We are deeply committed to our community, friends and family. I am passionate about ensuring that Walcha remains a prosperous and vibrant rural community for generations to come. Most important issue The most important thing for Walcha and its residents over the next one, five, and ten years is sustainable growth that respects our rural heritage while meeting the needs of a modern community. In the short term, a critical focus must be on addressing pressing issues and delivering on key projects that are vital to our town’s future. One such project is the long-overdue Derby Street upgrade, initially budgeted at roughly 2 million then 6 but now possibly costing upwards of $13 million. The current state of our main street pavement is an embarrassment, and while this upgrade is essential, it’s crucial that we get it right to ensure long-term benefits for our community. Another significant responsibility the council is about to undertake is the operational and financial management of Riverview Aged Care. While it is commendable that we are not allowing this essential community service to fall away, taking on this responsibility poses considerable financial and liability risks. We are dealing with an aging asset that will require substantial upgrades to ensure compliance, such as modernising the electrical infrastructure for heating and cooling systems. With my development experience and thorough understanding of compliance, it is imperative that the council has a comprehensive understanding of what we are committing to, ensuring that we manage this transition in a way that is sustainable and beneficial for the community. Over the next five years, our emphasis should be on implementing a strategic growth plan that fosters economic development, particularly by supporting local businesses and creating opportunities for our youth and young families to thrive. Looking ahead to the next decade, the priority should be on ensuring that Walcha remains a prosperous, vibrant, and self-sustaining community. This will require a careful balance of development, fiscal responsibility, and community engagement, ensuring that our decisions today set the stage for a bright and sustainable future for all residents. Vote for me because… My vision is to guide sustainable growth that respects our rural character while improving infrastructure to meet future needs. I am committed to fostering a resilient community, empowering local businesses, and supporting economic growth. With a focus on fiscal responsibility, I will scrutinise developments and infrastructure projects to ensure they are conducted with the best interests of our community in mind. My mission includes working closely with council members, residents, and local businesses to make decisions that benefit everyone. Additionally, I will ensure young families and youth in Walcha are well-supported, with opportunities to live, work, and thrive in our region. Together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous Walcha for everyone. Website: https://oxleycivil.com.au/candidate |
| McCOY Stephen – no information provided |
| SALTER Judith – no information provided |
GREIG Rachel  About I moved to Walcha in 2000 when I married my husband Cam and we have raised our 4 children in Walcha. Together, my husband and I operate an expanding cattle business. I studied Veterinary Science at Sydney Uni and worked at the Walcha Vet Clinic for over 20 years. Most important issue Maintaining the strength and viability of our vibrant LGA. The Council need to oversee responsible financial management to ensure we maintain and improve the services offered by the Council. This includes considered and accountable spending. Council decisions need to support families that live in Walcha and continue to attract new families to the region. The establishment of good protocols for the administration of Riverview Aged Care is one of the biggest roles Council will undertake in the next term. We need responsible and sustainable growth for the LGA that is compatible with the existing businesses and families in Walcha. We need protection for the community from the impacts of over-development from large-scale renewable projects and Council needs to play a strong role in this. Vote for me because… I have the interest of the community at heart – I will listen to and represent the community. I have raised my family here and want to see Walcha remain as a place families choose to live. I would like to be a part of an invigorated, energetic and transparent Council that achieves responsible growth for the community. I have the time and the energy to be involved in all aspects of Council. Website: https://www.facebook.com/rachel.greig.candidate.for.walcha.council/ |
| POINTING Anne-Marie* – no information provided (but see our interview) |
NOAKES Eric* About I am a 5th generation farmer in Walcha. I was born raised and educated here and hold a deep passion for my community. First elected to council in 2016 I assumed the role of Mayor immediately and have strived to improve our infrastructure and liveability of our LGA. Over $90m in grants have been received in that time with the $11m town water supply dam and associated infrastructure becoming the jewel in the crown. Most important issue Like all councils financial sustainability is paramount. Our successful SRV application needs to have the commitment we made to the community constantly scrutinised and fulfilled. The transition of Riverview Aged Care Facility to council is challenging, yet achievable and successful project delivery needs to be prioritised. Leveraging benefits from any renewable energy projects that gain a State Government DA and the REZ implications will require careful yet strong negotiations. Vote for me because… My 8 years experience on a council that will have at least 6 new councillors out of 8 will help guide and inform new councillors. I have built a strong network of Mayors, GM’s, politicians and bureaucrats that provide me with valuable experienced support. I feel my leadership through natural disasters and Covid helped our council and community with funding and support. I believe I am approachable, honest and genuine and committed to our council. |
| OLRICH Gary – no information provided |
IUSTON Adam About I’m Adam, and I’m the owner of thebigblackbuilding in Walcha. Most important issue – Roads – Keeping our farms alive – Tourism – Promoting the New England as an excellent place to raise a family Vote for me because… I’m young, I’m driven and I follow through. Website: |
FLETCHER Holly About My name is Holly Fletcher. After studying and working in different places, I returned home permanently in 2020 with my husband Sean. I am a scientist and have dedicated my career to protecting the health of workers and their communities. My career has taken me around the world but my heart lies in Walcha. I value Walcha’s strong sense of community and believe there’s no better place to raise a family. I’m passionate about ensuring Walcha’s future as an independent, thriving town. Most important issue The most important thing for Walcha and our community is a stable, transparent and economically sustainable Council. Without that, we will face administration and, even worse, amalgamation with another Council. Most of the Walcha community would agree when I state that I don’t want Tamworth or Armidale Council running ‘Riverview’, our aged care facility. Amalgamation could be our fate if we don’t ensure appropriate governance and oversight of our council operation. Our town needs councillors who will act in the public’s interest. We need leaders who champion our long-term goals and safeguard our future as an independent LGA. Vote for me because… I am a senior public servant. I have a strong understanding of how government operates, including local government administration and community obligations. I will always act per the NSW Public Service Code of Conduct and put public interests before my own. I’m determined to protect our town’s independence, local identity and decision-making power, and devote my time and energy to make that happen. I can make a positive difference and respectfully ask for Walcha’s support and vote. |
| BLOMFIELD Katrina – no information provided |
| THOMSON Hyde – no information provided (but see our interview) |
FLETCHER Warwick About I was born in Walcha and have lived here all my life. I’m 7th generation Australian, my family were and still are part of the founding members of the Walcha community and I hope to continue with the example they have set by putting my hand up as a candidate for election to council. I have a lifetime of experience not only in our farming business of grazing superfine wool sheep and cattle but volunteering for over 50 years with Walcha community organizations. I’m a Life Committee member & past President of the Walcha Show Society. I’m Life Member, Past President & Coach of the Walcha Rugby Club. 30 years’ service with the Walcha SES & 50 years as a volunteer with the Rural Fire Service. I’m married to Jack & we have three children who have all made Walcha their home, where they now raise their children & hopefully in the future their grandchildren will live in a thriving, inclusive and diversified Walcha Community. Most important issue Financial sustainability of Council is very important. Walcha’s rates are in the process of a Special Rate Variation in the order of a 60% increase .I think it is important that every dollar Council spends is spent as efficiently as possible & gives the rate payer a fair return on their investment. Councils are being asked to do more & more in their communities, I think the governance, decision making and the execution of that process is done in a transparent, efficient & honest manner as possible. Vote for me because… I have experience and I know the Walcha district. I’m a team player, I’m respectful, rational and willing to listen to all sides of the debate. |
LUCHICH Michael  About I grew up and lived mostly in Sydney until moving to Walcha in 2012 with my wife and children. Initially we were drawn in by the unique Walcha Sculptures that welcome you to town in contrast to the fluro metal signs you see in most places in Australia. I have spent most of my working life in the IT industry, predominantly in banking and finance, as well as some time developing retail software. Since arriving in Walcha, Kate and I have run our company Alternation, doing design/techology/software/audio and video. Most important issue I have been involved in the campaign opposing the amalgamation of Walcha Council, the Musical Society, the BobbyJack’s festival, and most recently joined the Walcha Arts Advisory Committee and an Animal Ethics Committee. I also play in the band Pale Ailments and teach music. I have been a part of Voice for Walcha for the last 2 years, because I believe that there were a number of risks and issues that had not been addressed by the supporters or developers of the projects to the community at large, most of which still remain unanswered. It is important to stress that this is not my sole purpose in running for council, but it is a key issue where council needs to represent its constituents. I am also keen to ensure a smooth and viable transition of Riverview to councils’ control, and in a larger sense maximise the use of Council’s finances to benefit the community. The role of the Arts and the outdoor gallery and the importance of tourism are also a critical component in making Walcha stand out from the crowd of small towns in Australia and continue to be a great place to live. The most important thing for Walcha now and into the future is to remain a vibrant town, with a viable council, that its residents love and want to live in. We need to get things right now. What we do now will be critical to how things are in 10 years or beyond. While agriculture is our most important sector, our local businesses who chose to base themselves in Walcha, tourism, and the arts all combine to make Walcha the vibrant and unique town it is. It is important for all these things to thrive to maintain Walcha’s unique character. Council and Health related services are also critical to maintain all these things. There are a number of issues that are critical to the ongoing success of Walcha, these include the transition of Riverview to Council ownership, supporting in home aged care, the continued availability of accessible medical services, water security and the ongoing viability of the Walcha Council, both financially and for those working for the council, culturally. Providing key feedback in relation to renewable developments and the energy transition is also critical. I also believe a new council needs to make a positive contribution to councils strategic development plans. Vote for me because… I am passionate about making Walcha a better place to like, I am a listener, and will represent the community in Council. I will also bring a different perspective to council through my experiences both outside and inside of Walcha. Website: https://walcha.net |
See all our coverage for the Local Government elections 2024. Candidates can submit information here and we’ll get it up when we can.