Council
14 August, 2025
By-election heats up
TWO new candidates for Somerset Council’s by-election have come forward over the past week, with Stephanie Laycock and Robyn Tucker both announcing their official nominations.
They are now joining candidate Bud Smith, who announced his candidacy in early July.
This comes as the Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) announced the date for Somerset Council’s by-election as Saturday, September 13, 2025, with it set to be a full postal ballot.
Stephanie Laycock officially announced her nomination on August 5, stating for many her decision “may not come as a surprise”.
“Over the past few years, I’ve focused on growing both personally and professionally through active community involvement, advocating for the rural industry, promoting youth in agriculture and supporting our incredible local volunteers,” she said in her official statement.
“This opportunity allows me to bring together my passion for the Somerset region with a strong focus on community values, rural perspectives and a futurefocused approach to local leadership.
“I’m excited to continue working towards a stronger future for our entire community, while proudly advocating for our towns, our young people and our rural industries.”
Robyn Tucker declared her candidacy over the weekend, saying she has made the decision due to caring deeply about the community and wanting to see it thrive.
“With a lifetime of experience and a strong background in business, I bring practical skills and a steady hand to local decision-making,” she stated in her announcement.
“I believe in listening to residents, supporting local businesses, and ensuring our community is safe, vibrant, and inclusive.
“I’m not a career politician—just someone who’s passionate about making a real difference where it matters most: right here at home.”
Ms Tucker added her solid understanding of how to manage budgets, create opportunities, and solve problems are skills “essential for effective local governance”.
“I believe in commonsense decision-making, transparency, and working together to improve the quality of life for everyone in our area,” she stated.
“I’m ready to listen, act, and deliver for every corner of our region.”
Interested candidates must nominate before 12pm on Thursday, August 14, 2025.
Potential candidates must pay a deposit of $250, open a dedicated campaign bank account and complete the free ‘So you want to be a councillor’ online training through the Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers website.
Independent candidates must be endorsed by at least six eligible nominators currently enrolled in Somerset Regional Council.
The Sentinel is unaware of any other prospective candidates at this stage.
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