Narrabri Shire Council has officially announced the resignation of Councillor Amanda Brown, effective Friday, 27 February 2026.
Cr Brown, who was elected to the Council in the September 2024 local government elections, made the difficult decision to step down following a recent cancer diagnosis. In a heartfelt statement, she expressed that her priority must now shift toward her health and her family.
“It is with a heavy heart that I tender my resignation,” Cr Brown stated. “Serving the community has been a privilege, but my current health journey means I can no longer give the 100 per cent commitment that this role and the residents of Narrabri Shire deserve.”
During her tenure, Cr Brown was known for her passionate advocacy and was one of two women serving on the current Council. Her departure marks a significant loss for the chamber.
Mayor Darrell Tiemens praised Cr Brown’s contribution, noting her “genuine commitment” and the “dedication and care” she brought to her duties. “While we are saddened by her departure, we fully support Amanda’s decision to put her health and family first. She has been a valued member of this team, and our thoughts are with her during this challenging time,” the Mayor said.
Under the Local Government Act, because the resignation occurred within 18 months of the previous ordinary election (September 2024), the vacancy will not trigger a costly by-election. Instead, the seat will be filled via a countback of votes from the 2024 election, administered by the NSW Electoral Commission.
It’s the third councillor vacancy in the region, following the resignation of Marilyn Dixon at Gwydir Council, and the death of Lone Peterson at Uralla Shire Council.