Date: 23rd July 2026

Craig Matheson has resigned as Chief Executive Officer of North Burnett Regional Council, with his employment concluding on Friday, 27 November 2026.

Mayor Les Hotz said Mr Matheson advised councillors of his decision at a workshop on 22 July 2026, giving just over four months’ notice — well beyond the one month required under his contract. Mr Matheson has said he wants to support Council through the selection of his successor and ensure a stable handover.

Cr Hotz said Mr Matheson’s departure would be a considerable loss to Council and the region, describing a strong working relationship between the CEO and councillors over his tenure. He credited Mr Matheson with improving the organisation’s performance, addressing legacy issues and strengthening corporate governance.

Mr Matheson, who has led the council for two years, said informing the Mayor and councillors was one of the hardest tasks of his career, and thanked them for “the significant opportunity and privilege” of leading the organisation.

Council intends to begin the process of recruiting a new CEO in the coming weeks. No acting or interim arrangements have yet been announced.

Mr Matheson is the second Queensland Council CEO to announce their resignation this week, following that of Gold Coast CEO Tim Baker yesterday.