Council
30 September, 2025
Welcome Cr Laycock
STEPHANIE Laycock has been sworn in as Somerset Regional Council’s newest and youngest ever councillor on September 25.
Cr Laycock and her family attended the swearing in ceremony in the Simeon Lord Room in Esk Library, following the Electoral Commission of Queensland’s declaration of the by-election results on Wednesday, September 24.
At 27 years of age, Cr Laycock is the youngest person to be elected as a councillor in Somerset. She dominated the election, winning with over 40 per cent of votes, having received nearly double the amount of votes than runner up, Bud Smith (6,087 votes for Cr Laycock and 3,617 for Mr Smith).
Geoff Williams came third in the race (19 per cent of votes), followed by Robyn Tucker (15 per cent).
A third-generation resident, Cr Laycock said she was dedicated to providing outcomes for the community.
“I am extremely excited to have been voted as your new Councillor for Somerset,” Cr Laycock said.
“I am highly motivated to advocate for our residents and to work with the sitting Councillors to promote Somerset through strategic planning which benefits the future of our region.
“Thank you to our residents, the other candidates and to my family and friends for their endless support.
“I look forward to stepping into a more profound leadership role and supporting the community I care so deeply about.”
Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt congratulated Cr Laycock on her successful campaign.
“We are delighted to have Cr Laycock joining our team of Councillors,” Cr Wendt said.
“We look forward to the fresh perspectives and passion Cr Laycock will bring to the role.
“There are many great things happening in Somerset, and it will be a pleasure to deliver services for our community with a united team of Councillors.”
CEO Andrew Johnson also welcomed Cr Laycock to Somerset Regional Council.
“I look forward to working closely with Cr Laycock and our full team of Councillors to advocate for Somerset and create positive changes in our community,” he said.
“Thank you also to all by-election candidates for your passion and desire to see Somerset become the best version of itself.”
