Roper Gulf Regional Council held its official swearing-in ceremony this morning, Thursday 25 September 2025, at its inaugural Ordinary Meeting, marking the beginning of the fifth term of Council.
At the meeting, the new Council sat for the first time with its inaugural order of business to appoint Mayor and Deputy Mayor via election to lead the Council of thirteen (13) Elected Members (Councillors).
Councillor Tony Jack from the South West Gulf Ward was nominated as Mayor of Roper Gulf Regional Council by fellow Councillors.
The nomination was uncontested, and as such, Councillor Tony Jack was appointed as Mayor for the term of Council.
Councillor Helen Lee from the Nyirranggulung Ward was nominated as Deputy Mayor by fellow Councillors.
This nomination was also uncontested, and as such, Councillor Helen Lee was appointed as Deputy Mayor.
Council subsequently resolved that the Deputy Mayor’s term to consist of the full term of Council (four years).
Mayor Tony Jack, who has previously served as Mayor, said he was honoured to continue in the role and to lead the new Council.
“I am very grateful for the opportunity to once again represent the Roper Gulf region, and thank my fellow Councillors for putting their trust in me,” Mayor Jack said.
“As Mayor, my focus will be on working closely with all Councillors, our Chief Executive Officer and the executive management team to ensure decisions are carried out across the region.
Together, we will continue to improve and enhance the Roper Gulf region, support and advocate for our people, and deliver the best possible outcomes for our communities.”
Deputy Mayor Helen Lee, who has also previously held the Deputy Mayor position, said she was honoured to again be entrusted with the role.
“I look forward to continuing to support the Mayor and my fellow Councillors,” Deputy Mayor Lee said.
“My priority will be to ensure the voices of our communities are heard and reflected in Council’s work as we move forward together.”
Chief Executive Officer David Hurst congratulated Mayor Jack, Deputy Mayor Lee and all Councillors on their appointments.
“I look forward to continuing a strong collaboration between Councillors and the senior management team as we work together to deliver a sustainable and vibrant Roper Gulf region for our communities.” Mr. Hurst said.
The elected members of Council for the 2025–2029 term are:
Never Never Ward
Councillor Sue Edwards
Councillor Des Barritt
Councillor Patricia Farrell
Numbulwar Numburindi Ward
Councillor Edwin Nunggumajbarr
Councillor Kathy-Anne Numamurdirdi
Nyirranggulung Ward
Deputy Mayor Helen Lee
Councillor John Dalywater
Councillor Preston Lee
South West Gulf Ward
Mayor Tony Jack
Councillor Ash Garner
Councillor Samuel Evans
Yugul Mangi Ward
Councillor Melissa Andrews-Wurramarrba
One position vacant
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Media Contact:
Annika Berendes | Programs Communications Officer | annika.berendes@ropergulf.nt.gov.au