Hindmarsh Shire Council is pleased to announce the appointment of Jessie Holmes as its new Chief Executive Officer after a competitive recruitment process.

Ms Holmes will be well known to the local community, completing her schooling at Dimboola Memorial Secondary College, and having spent the past twelve months as the Director Infrastructure Services with Hindmarsh Shire Council. Prior to this, Ms Holmes was the Regional Manager with the Victorian Skills Authority for the Wimmera Southern Mallee and has also previously held local government positions as the CEO at Yarriambiack Shire Council and a Director at Buloke Shire Council.

Ms Holmes said, “I am excited to engage strongly with Hindmarsh residents to ensure our rural towns are thriving, focusing on community and economic development.”

Mayor, Cr Brett Ireland said, “On behalf of Council, we are excited to appoint Ms Holmes as the next CEO of Hindmarsh Shire Council.” Cr Ireland continued, “Ms Holmes has built up strong relationships with community groups and the general community during her twelve months with Council. Her experience in working with rural communities will be invaluable to Council and the wider community.”

Mayor Ireland thanked current CEO Greg Wood for leading the Council since September 2016. Cr Ireland said, “Throughout his time, Mr Wood has provided strong leadership and leaves Hindmarsh Shire in a strong financial position. We would like to thank Mr Wood for his service over the past seven years.”

Mr Wood gave notice to Council in April that he would not be seeking re-appointment. Mr Wood said, “I would like to congratulate Jessie and I wish her and Council all the best for the future.”

Ms Holmes will commence in the role on Monday 16 October 2023. 

This article appeared in the Nhill Free Press & Kaniva Times, 6 September 2023.