Lorraine Wearne, long-time Parramatta Councillor and the first female Lord Mayor of a Sydney Council, has announced she will not be contesting the Local Government Election this year.
After almost 30 years, the final curtain has come down on the Epping Ward Councillor’s impressive career in local politics.
Independent Wearne has served as a local Councillor since September 1995, taking on the mantle of Lord Mayor twice during her time on Council from 2000-2001 and 2011-2012.
She said it has been a pleasure to assist residents with council issues and fulfil her role as a Councillor at a local level.
“I have been able to carry out the role of Councillor and assist the community over the last 29 years which has included the creation of the conservation zones in Epping, the construction of appropriate development, the acquisition of the Boronia Grove Community Centre and the retention of free parking in Epping,” Wearne said.
“During my two terms as Lord Mayor I was delighted to welcome the Olympic Torch into Parramatta at Parramatta Park, help Council staff to be ambassadors of our city to the many local and international visitors during the Olympic Games period and subsequently go as an invited delegate to a Conference in Athens to assist with their preparation for the next games.
“I believe Parramatta and Australia showed the world the true meaning of volunteering during this period.”
Although her time on Council has come to an end, Wearne said it would not be the end of the Lorraine Wearne Independents – confirming Charles Chen will take over to win a spot on City of Parramatta Council.
“I am pleased to advise that Mr. Charles Chen will head my team for the upcoming election on 14th September, and I believe that he will carry forward my legacy of upholding the community interest and wishes,” she added.
“I would like to express my immeasurable gratitude and thanks to the people of my Ward with all its changes in name and boundaries from Lachlan Macquarie to Epping for their continued support and assistance which has enabled me to achieve my 29 years ‘on the job’.”
Reflecting on the milestones she achieved during her time on Council, Wearne thanked her fellow Councillors, Council staff and the Epping Ward community.
“To end on a high note? I must mention that whilst Lord Mayor, as a fundraising event, I abseiled my way from the roof top to the ground of the Park Royal Hotel in Phillip Street,” she said.
“A feat I look forward to a future Lord Mayor completing.”
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.