18/10/2024
Statement from Mayor Russell Webb
Thank you to everyone who has supported me and continues to do so. I usually refrain from commenting on social media, but with the amount of misinformation circulating, I need to set the record straight.
I’ve been part of the council since the 2004 amalgamation and have dedicated myself to serving our community. I’m not just a public servant; I’m also a ratepayer and part of this community. Like many of you, I’ve worked hard all my life—as a carpenter, TAFE teacher, work safety manager, and farmer. I’m a father, grandfather, husband, and a mate to many. My passion for our region, its growth, and sustainability is both professional and personal.
In my time on council, I’ve supported numerous not-for-profit organisations and charities, and I’ve built strong relationships with state and federal government representatives and ministers. I have always acted with honesty and integrity, and I will continue to do so.
Unfortunately, I have never seen a campaign as negative as the one led by Cr Rodda. His actions have created unnecessary hostility, with personal attacks aimed at council staff, directors, the general manager, myself, and others. This conduct, including social media bullying, has not only misled the community but also turned other councillors off working with this kind of behaviour. We must prioritise unity, truth, and respectful dialogue.
Councillors are elected to make decisions in the best interest of the community, and while these decisions may not always be popular, they are based on thorough consideration and independent reports. Unfortunately, not all have participated fully, and some of the opposing views on the SRV appear to have been motivated by self-interest rather than community needs, resulting in misinformation.
Regarding the SRV, this rate rise is a state-wide issue impacting many regions. Without it, our ability to maintain essential services, like road networks, would have been severely compromised. These difficult choices are necessary for our community’s long-term prosperity.
As for Ray Walsh House, Cr Rodda has made it very clear publicly that he does not agree with my decision on the matter. Let me make this very clear: no decision has been made, and it is not my decision to make alone. It is the responsibility of the councillors collectively to make that decision. The safety concerns due to asbestos are our priority, and any final decision will be made by the council as a whole.
I would also like to address Cr Rodda’s comments about Tamworth Regional Councillors attending the 2024 Tamworth Business Awards, claiming it was a waste of ratepayers’ money. This event is a celebration of our region’s small businesses, and our participation supports these vital local enterprises. Cr Rodda chose not to attend because he felt uncomfortable sharing a table with councillors he had just attacked on social media. We were there to show our support for local businesses and celebrate their success on this important night.
There has also been criticism regarding the voting process for the mayoral position. The current system, including the secret ballot, has been in place for years. Any changes to this process would require agreement from a majority of the councillors. It is unfair to criticise new councillors for following existing rules.
Prior to 2004, there were separate councils in Nundle, Parry Shire, Barraba, Manilla, and Tamworth. In 2004, these areas amalgamated to form the Tamworth Regional Council, becoming one of the largest regional councils in Australia. Since then, we have grown significantly, and as a result, the role of the Mayor has expanded along with the progress of the council and the community.
To correct recent commentary from Cr Rodda, who claimed that “Prior to former Mayor Murray and current Webb, Mayors actually had full-time jobs, shared responsibilities with fellow councillors which you won’t see following the recent election,” I want to clarify that the last Mayor who, from what I understand, had a full-time job was Doug Campbell in the 1960s. He was a solicitor. All other elected Mayors since then, including Col Murray, James Treloar, David John, Warren Woodley, and Warwick Bennet, were self-employed and business owners. These Mayors had the flexibility and freedom to dedicate their time fully to the role, just as I do.
I urge all councillors, including Cr Rodda, to work collaboratively, as we share many goals. By coming together, we can achieve great outcomes for our region and make this council the best it can be. Let’s ensure our region continues to grow and thrive, building a stronger, more united Tamworth for ourselves and future generations.
Mayor Russell Webb
FYI: As mentioned at the beginning, I am truly grateful for the support I have received and continue to. However, due to some nasty personal attacks on myself, other councillors, and their families on social media, I will be turning off comments for now. If you would like to contact me, please feel free to reach out through the TRC app, and I will respond accordingly. Thank you for your understanding.
