Media Release - New Interim Chief Executive Officer Appointed for Hinchinbrook Shire Council

Council held a Special Meeting today, Tuesday 23 May 2023 to appoint Michelle Webster as the new interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Hinchinbrook Shire Council effective Thursday 25 May 2023. Council is pleased to appoint Michelle, who will be sharing her 26 years’ experience as a Local Government professional. 

Over the past 11 years, Michelle has held a Senior Executive position with Central Highlands Regional Council. This has seen Michelle living and working within several regional and remote communities of Central Queensland. This experience has provided Michelle a broad understanding of the benefits and challenges of living and working in a regional community similar to Hinchinbrook.

From a professional perspective, Michelle has been successful as an Acting CEO and General Manager across various departmental portfolios of Local Government business. Michelle has successfully delivered extensive capital works, commercial, corporate and community programs. 

Michelle has served as the Executive Officer of the Central Highlands (Qld) Housing Company Limited and Michelle holds tertiary qualifications in Commerce, Management, Local Government Planning and Project Management.  She is a graduate and member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and is currently a Board Member of the Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service.

Michelle recently retired from Central Highlands Regional Council to undertake interim CEO appointment. Michelle has commented that she is, “very excited by the opportunity to relieve as Council’s Interim CEO as I am no stranger to the area having regularly holidayed in Lucinda”. 

Michelle will be relied upon over the next three months period to lead and support the team with its planned delivery of Council’s Capital Works program, 2023/2024 Budget and continuity of services to the communities, whilst the permanent CEO recruitment process is undertaken.

Council’s current CEO, Kelvin Tytherleigh has resigned to accept the role of General Manager at Moree Plains Council in Northern NSW. Kelvin’s last day with Hinchinbrook Shire Council will be Friday 26 May 2023. Council wishes Kelvin all the best with his future endeavours and thanks him for his service the past two and half years.

Image: Michelle Webster – New Interim CEO.