Community & Business
22 February, 2024
Cr O’Hara Sullivan calls it quits
Greenmount resident Megan O’Hara Sullivan has decided not to run for re-election as a Councillor for Toowoomba Regional Council in 2024.
Cr O’Hara Sullivan has served as a Councillor of the Toowoomba Region for two terms, beginning in 2016.
She had previously served on the Clifton Shire Council from 2005 to 2008.
In a statement on social media last week, Cr O’Hara Sullivan said she made the decision to stand down as councillor with mixed emotions.
“It has been an incredible journey, one filled with both triumphs and challenges,” Cr O’Hara Sullivan said.
“Serving the community has been a privilege, and I have cherished every moment of it.
“Witnessing the positive impact we can have on people’s lives has been truly rewarding.
“For me, the community work has given me deep satisfaction.”
Cr O’Hara Sullivan said she had run for the position of Councillor in the amalgamated Toowoomba Regional Council in 2008 and in 2012.
“Eventually in 2016, I was elected. I only mention this because I want to encourage any candidates who don’t get in the first time, you need to be persistent and determined and work hard to pursue your dreams,” she said.
The key to the Council’s future success, according to
Cr O’Hara Sullivan, is diversity, including people of different ethnicities, backgrounds and ages.
“We don’t need a group that looks and feels the same,” she said.
“We must continuously challenge ourselves to find new and better ways to serve our community, to adapt to the evolving needs of the people of our region, and to address the pressing issues of our time
“Leaving this elected position is not a decision I have taken lightly.
“It is a decision rooted in the belief that true public service requires a constant influx of new voices, new ideas, and new approaches.”
She also thanked the staff at TRC for their hard work and generosity, as well as Toowoomba Region residents.
“To the community I have had the honor of serving, I want to express my deepest gratitude,” the retiring Councillor said.
“Your trust and support have been the driving force behind my dedication to this job.
“I assure you that my decision to step down is not a sign of defeat, but rather a commitment to ensuring that Council remains a dynamic and responsive entity.”
Running for re-election is former Cambooya Shire Mayor Carol Taylor, who now resides in Toowoomba.
On Our Selection News is unaware of any other Councillor nominees with significant ties to the former Cambooya Shire and Westbrook areas.
