BREAKING: In a surprising turn of events, Charlotte McCabe has stepped into the role of acting lord mayor of Newcastle after the sudden resignation of Ross Kerridge, who will be absent for the next three months due to a serious medical condition. This urgent transition comes just two weeks after McCabe was appointed deputy lord mayor, placing her in a pivotal leadership position during a critical time.
McCabe expressed her shock and concern regarding Kerridge’s health, stating, “It was a huge shock and it’s concerning. Our thoughts are with the lord mayor, and we wish him a full and speedy recovery.” Emphasizing the importance of stability, she plans to collaborate closely with council staff and fellow councillors to maintain order in the council and the community.
The acting lord mayor, who is also a primary school teacher and environmental educator, said she is ready to embrace this significant responsibility. “I don’t feel like it will be me on my own trying to battle the headwinds; this is very much a collective team effort,” she affirmed. This marks a historic moment as McCabe becomes the first Greens councillor to hold the lord mayoral position in Newcastle.
McCabe is set to chair her first council meeting on Tuesday, where council members will formally delegate responsibilities to her and decide on a new deputy lord mayor. The next in line is Labor Cr Declan Clausen, following a council decision earlier in the term to elect four deputy lord mayors for one-year terms.
Amidst this leadership change, Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery has emphasized the need for a smooth transition. “Politics is a really difficult environment to be in,” she remarked, urging councillors to respect McCabe’s temporary role and to focus on collaboration.
As the council prepares for this shift, McCabe’s main priority remains ensuring the council’s stability and effective governance. She expressed her commitment to working collaboratively, stating, “No one wants to see politicians fighting; people want to see elected representatives working together to achieve outcomes.”
Kerridge’s leave of absence will begin on October 27, 2023, and is expected to last until early 2026. McCabe and other officials are hopeful for his swift recovery, recognizing the essential role he plays in the council.
The unfolding developments highlight the urgent need for leadership and cooperation in local governance as McCabe steps up to navigate the council through this transitional period. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
