Date: 5th August 2026

Mystery surrounds the sudden departure of Nambucca Valley Council‘s General Manager, Mr Bede Spannagle, who has resigned effective 24 July 2026, after serving in the role since December 2023.

The resignation was noted through a confidential mayoral minute considered in closed session at the Council’s Ordinary Meeting on 22 July. No public statement has been issued by the Council since.

The published preview of matters to be discussed in closed session that night did not include anything relating to the General Manager’s performance or employment, listing instead items on potential losses, a waste services procurement agreement, a cyber security tender exemption, a property sale update and a culvert replacement tender.

The Council’s formal resolution noted Mr Spannagle’s resignation and thanked him for his contribution. The resolution passed by five votes to three, with Councillors Ballangarry, Jenvey, Jones, Lee and McWilliam in favour, and Councillors Angel, Simson and Vance against.

Council appointed Director Engineering Services Mr David Moloney as Acting General Manager, pursuant to sections 336 and 351 of the Local Government Act 1993, for a maximum of twelve months or until a permanent appointment is made, whichever occurs first. All functions previously delegated to the General Manager have been delegated to Mr Moloney under section 377 of the Act.

Mayor Cr Gary Lee has been delegated authority to lead recruitment for a permanent General Manager, with regular progress updates to be provided to Council.

The Roundup has approached the Council and Mr Spannagle for comment.