Riding a wave of popularity after achieving a strong primary vote in the recent Armidale Dumaresq Council elections, Jim Maher takes the helm as new mayor of Armidale Dumaresq, claiming the position uncontested at an Extraordinary Council meeting held last Friday evening at the Armidale Dumaresq Council chambers. Herman Beyersdorf is his deputy, also the only candidate for the position.
Buoyed by his fellow councillors’ support, Jim Maher is confident of leading Armidale to a bright and prosperous future by stimulating economic growth, encouraging industry to relocate to Armidale and creating jobs.
“We need to meet the challenges head on and open up land for industrial use and get out there and be proactive about bringing industry to this town,” Mayor Maher said.
“If we want people to move here from the cities, they need to know that they can gain employment. I think we have a lot of resources here, human resources, the natural beauty and talent to make Armidale grow and prosper.”
Jim has been Deputy Mayor for four years and has worked closely with council staff during that time. However, he believes there is nothing like getting the reins yourself and assuming the leadership position.
“I have held leadership positions in the past and believe I have done a good job and have earned the respect of people across the region,” said Jim.
“I am looking forward to guiding this council and providing leadership for the community, working with the community and councilors.
“We do have a good skill set here and I want to see our council work well together.”
Jim also paid tribute to wife Nina and his children for their wonderful support throughout the election campaign.
“My wife battled a couple of bouts of flu in the leadup to the election, she was a wonderful support; my agent and confidant. I had family come up from Grafton who worked for me for days. I also had a small band of people helping me with my campaign, the support I had from the community was wonderful.”
A veteran of 21 years on council, Herman Beyersdorf is looking forward to the challenge ahead as Deputy Mayor.
“I think we have a good combination and a good council with a mix of experienced and new councillors,” he said.
“I am quite optimistic about the future.”
