Councillors

Council is made up of nine Councillors, including a Council elected Mayor and deputy Mayor.

Council encourages residents to share their ideas or concerns? Talk to your local councillor! They're here to represent you and make sure your voice is heard and considered in the development of policies.

Councillors are elected by the people of Wingecarribee Shire to represent us on local issues. The elected Councillors will then vote on who will lead them as Mayor and deputy Mayor. Councillors work hard to understand our needs and make decisions that benefit our community. 

    Meet your Councillors 

    Contact details and other information relating to the nine Councillors are outlined below (in alphabetical order).

    Mayor Jesse Fitzpatrick

    Mayor

    • Telephone02 4868 0888
    • Email mayor@wsc.nsw.gov.au
    • ProfileMayor Jesse Fitzpatrick is a Wingello resident and a professional builder. He is passionate about supporting young families and creating a vibrant and supportive Shire where children can grow, learn and eventually raise their own families. Jesse is committed to streamlining local government processes and focusing on the core obligations and functions of Council.

    Deputy Mayor Erin Foley

    Deputy Mayor

    • Telephone02 4868 0888
    • Alternate Phone0408 257 729
    • Email erin.foley@wsc.nsw.gov.au
    • ProfileDeputy Mayor Erin Foley lives with her family in Mittagong. Erin is dedicated to making a positive change in the community while preserving the unique and special character of the villages and towns in the Shire. She also emphasises the importance of balancing preserving the Shires' local character with the need to provide recreational, educational, and employment opportunities for all residents.

    Councillor Therese Duffy

    Councillor

    • Telephone02 4868 0888
    • Alternate Phone0455 257 781
    • Email therese.duffy@wsc.nsw.gov.au
    • ProfileCouncillor Therese Duffy grew up in Moss Vale and now resides in Wingello with her family. Therese is passionate about creating a Shire that provides affordable housing for families and promotes responsible economic growth. She aims to focus on the essentials and is proud to serve the people of the Wingecarribee Shire.

    Councillor James Farrell

    Councillor

    • Telephone02 4868 0888
    • Alternate Phone0476 257 799
    • Email james.farrell@wsc.nsw.gov.au
    • ProfileCouncillor James Farrell moved to Mittagong in 1966, where he raised his family. He now resides in Renwick. Having retired, James previously worked as a paramedic with NSW Ambulance. He enjoys staying active by playing golf with friends and is eager to make a positive impact in our Shire during his time as a Councillor.

    Councillor David Kent

    Councillor

    • Telephone02 4868 0888
    • Alternate Phone0455 257 794
    • Email david.kent@wsc.nsw.gov.au
    • ProfileCouncillor David Kent is a resident of Moss Vale. David is dedicated to finding solutions that will enhance road maintenance and support the community in improving local infrastructure. He appreciates the semi-rural lifestyle offered by the Highlands and the unique towns and villages that make up the Wingecarribee Shire.

    Councillor Sara Moylan

    Councillor

    • Telephone02 4868 0888
    • Alternate Phone0455 257 719
    • Email sara.moylan@wsc.nsw.gov.au
    • ProfileCouncillor Sara Moylan has lived in the Shire for 14 years. Sara aims to provide value for our ratepayers and to achieve this with integrity and efficiency. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family. She values the natural beauty of the Shire, its culture and its people.

    Councillor Rachel Russell

    Councillor

    • Telephone02 4868 0888
    • Alternate Phone0407 257 715
    • Email rachel.russell@wsc.nsw.gov.au
    • ProfileCouncillor Rachel Russell is a resident of the Southern Villages. She is committed to ensuring a safe, healthy and prosperous community that supports small businesses and the Shire's character. Rachel loves the strong sense of community the Southern Highlands offers its residents.

    Councillor Nicole Smith

    Councillor

    • Telephone02 4868 0888
    • Alternate Phone0477 257 700
    • Email nicole.smith@wsc.nsw.gov.au
    • ProfileCouncillor Nicole Smith is a resident of Mittagong who is deeply passionate about the Highlands community and a strong supporter of the arts. She appreciates the diverse towns and villages within the Shire, as well as their beautiful heritage. Nicole believes that with a clear vision, we can create a bright future for the Highlands that will thrive and prosper for generations to come.

    Important to know:

    • Councillors don't get paid a salary, but they do receive a small allowance that is determined each year by Council, but must also be between the limits set by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal.
    • Councillors often work full-time jobs in addition to their Councillor duties.
    What is the role of a Councillor

    Councillors are responsible for running the local council in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993, Section 232. They work together to make decisions that affect our community.

    Key responsibilities:

    • Managing the council: They make sure Council follows the rules and uses its resources for the benefit of the area.
    • Planning for the future: They help create plans and goals for the Council's work.
    • Checking on the Council's work: They make sure the council is doing a good job and providing the services we need.
    • Representing the community: They speak for the people who live in our area.
    • Leading the community: They help guide and support the community.
    • Connecting people to the council: They make sure people can talk to the council and share their ideas.