News
19 August, 2025
Candidates locked in
THE field of candidates for the Somerset Council by-election has been finalised, with Toogoolawah resident Geoffrey Williams confirmed as the latest contender as nominations closed on August 14.
Mr Williams is the fourth resident to put his hand up for the vacant councillor position following the resignation of Kylee Isidro. The three other candidates are Bud Smith, Robyn Tucker and Stephanie Laycock.
Mr Williams described himself as “country born, city bred,” having spent much of his life in northern Brisbane before moving to the Somerset region. Together with his wife, he settled on a hilltop property around Toogoolawah, attracted by the lifestyle and community.
“This is the first time nominating for councillor,” Mr Williams said. “I have many life skills to offer, I’m a good listener and I am approachable.”
Over his working life, Mr Williams established his own carpet retail and laying business and later served as a professional firefighter in Brisbane for 25 years. Following his first wife’s illness and passing, he retired to care for her, before remarrying.
Outside of work, Mr Williams is well known as a keen runner, having competed in the Gold Coast Marathon for 38 years, the Gold Coast 50km for 28 years, and numerous endurance events across the country. He has also been Race Director for several community events at the Caboolture Historical Village, moving the popular “Dusk till Dawn” run to the Toogoolawah Showgrounds in 2020.
In retirement, he remains active through the Rural Fire Brigade and by volunteering at major sporting events including the Townsville, Ipswich and Gold Coast Supercars. He also enjoys caravanning, maintaining his property, and being involved in the community.
“I love to socialise, meeting people, telling jokes and seeing people laugh,” he said. “I care about this Shire, in what is happening and where it is going, so if I can be a spokesperson in meetings for the community, then I’m willing to try.”
Bud Smith, who announced his candidacy in early July, said he had been encouraged by local community members and leaders to join the race, having also contested the 2024 local government election.
“As a young man with a broad range of experiences, I believe I am well placed to represent the whole Somerset Region,” he said. “I am committed to ensuring this region remains affordable and liveable, with strong planning, better roads, capitalising on tourism opportunities and supporting our local youth.”
Stephanie Laycock was second to join the race earlier this month. Ms Laycock said she is excited to continue working towards a stronger future for the community, while “proudly advocating for our towns, our young people and our rural industries.”
“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. “This opportunity allows me to bring together my passion for the Somerset region with a strong focus on community values, rural perspectives and a future-focused approach to local leadership.”
Robyn Tucker announced her candidacy soon after, saying she made the decision because she cares deeply about the community and wants to see it thrive.
“I believe in listening to residents, supporting local businesses, and ensuring our community is safe, vibrant, and inclusive,” she said. “I’m not a career politician—just someone who’s passionate about making a real difference where it matters most: right here at home.”
The Electoral Commission of Queensland (ECQ) announced Somerset Council’s by-election will take place on Saturday, September 13, 2025, with the vote to be conducted entirely by post.
Postal ballot papers began being issued on August 14, with applications for postal votes closing on September 1 at 7:00 pm.
A ‘Meet the Candidates’ event will take place in Glamorgan Vale on August 25 at 7:00 pm at the Glamorgan Vale Community Hall.
For more information on the candidates, voters are encouraged to visit their respective Facebook pages.
