Last week, Thursday 17 September, Temora Shire Council held elections for the position of mayor and deputy mayor at the conclusion of the previous two-year term. Councillor Rick Firman was re-elected as mayor and Councillor Graham Sinclair as deputy mayor for a further two-year term. The elections were held at Council’s September Ordinary Meeting with both councillors continuing in their respective leadership roles with both positions uncontested. Mayor Firman thanked his fellow councillors for their continued confidence and acknowledged the important work ahead for council and the Temora Shire community. “I am deeply grateful to my fellow councillors for placing their confidence in me for another two years,” Cr Firman said. “I also congratulate Cr Sinclair on his re-election as deputy mayor and thank him for his ongoing support.” “While we know there are significant challenges ahead, we should also reflect on how much we have achieved across so many facets of council’s operations and throughout our shire community. There is much to be proud of.” “With a strong team of councillors, dedicated council staff and a supportive community, we are a formidable team. I look forward to continuing to work together in the best interests of Temora Shire.” Deputy Mayor Cr Sinclair also thanked Councillors for their continued support. “I sincerely thank my fellow Councillors for their continued support and confidence. I look forward to serving as Deputy Mayor for the next two years as we embark on what will be a challenging but important journey for council and our community.” Cr Firman also said that he was deeply honoured and sees the role as a significant privilege in the community and particularly in a place that you love to be, to be the mayor of the place that you hold so dear, it does mean a great deal. “But at the end of the day, that aside, it's now, of course, back to work,” Cr Firman said. “The hard work now begins because, we've got challenging times in terms of financial sustainability, like most other rural councils have or are currently experiencing. “So that's why we'll continue to work as hard as we possibly can to make sure that we get back on top. “But also, I think we need to remember that there's also many, many, many exciting things that have been happening and continue to happen as well. “We can't lose sight of that.” You can listen to a recording of the September council meeting on council’s website. https://www.temora.nsw.gov.au/Your-Council/Council-Meetings/Past-Council-Minutes/Minutes-from-2026
