Council
18 July, 2025
Moreton Bay Councillor resigns to support wife’s career move
MORETON Bay Division 11 Councillor, Darren Grimwade, resigned from his role last week, meaning Division 11 residents will head back to the polls. Council has yet to confirm details, including the cost of filling the vacancy and the by-election date.
The Local Government Act 2009 states that within two months of a vacancy occurring, Council must fill the vacancy. Until then, residents can continue to contact the Division 11 office, with Councillor Cath Tonks (Division 9) and Councillor Tony Latter (Division 12) sharing responsibilities related to Division 11.
Cr Grimwade cited his family as the reason for his resignation, choosing to support his wife’s career. “In late 2024, my wife (Lisa) was presented with an opportunity to progress her career as a Midwife Navigator in Outback Queensland,” he said. “After dedicating two decades to the health system, it was her time to lead and serve in an area in desperate need of her expertise. So, as a family, we decided to support my wife with this opportunity.”
After having already done long-distance due to their careers, Cr Grimwade said it has become clear that to truly support his wife, they need to live their next chapter together.
“It is rare that politicians get the opportunity to depart on their own terms, and I am very grateful to be given the opportunity to do so,” he said. “[When elected in 2016] I said I wasn’t here to be a lifelong politician, but rather to serve with purpose, deliver meaningful outcomes, and represent our community with integrity. That promise has been the driving force behind everything I’ve done for nearly a decade.”
“I’ve dedicated my life to this region, having never resided outside of it. I’ve worn many hats, however the one I’ve been most proud to wear has been that of your trusted local representative.”
Mayor Peter Flannery called Cr Grimwade “a proud local and passionate advocate for his community.” “Darren worked tirelessly for his division and advocated strongly and successfully for state and federal funding for many local projects – the list is too long to mention. He leaves our Council and our City in a better place, on a positive note and at a time of his choosing. I admire Darren for this. We wish him and his family all the best for their future.”
Council CEO will now contact the Queensland Electoral Commissioner to make arrangements for a by-election.
