The Hon. Michael Kemp, Member for Oxley, Media Release, 26 February 2026

Nambucca Valley’s Labor Deputy Mayor has attempted to block Nambucca Valley Council from joining the Mid North Coast Joint Organisation – a move that would have isolated the valley from regional collaboration with neighbouring councils. 

At the Nambucca Valley Council Ordinary Meeting on 25 February, Councillors considered a recommendation to formally advise the NSW Government of their intention to seek membership of the Mid North Coast Joint Organisation (MNCJO). 

The vote was tied after Deputy Mayor Susan Jenvey opposed joining, describing the Joint Organisation as “very political,” forcing Mayor Gary Lee to cast the deciding vote. In doing so, Jenvey turned a simple discussion into a political move against regional collaboration. 

Member for Oxley, Michael Kemp, said attempting to block membership places politics ahead of practical outcomes. 

“The Minister was simply asking Nambucca Valley Council to advise its intention, yet the Deputy Mayor is turning it into a political game,” Mr Kemp said. 

“Her vote directly jeopardises opportunities for Nambucca Valley to access grants and funding programs that regional councils rely on.” 

“Every neighbouring council on the Mid North Coast understands the value of working together. Turning your back on that collaboration risks leaving the valley isolated.” 

The model is supported by the NSW Minister for Local Government, the Minister for the North Coast and the Minister for Recovery, who have consistently stated that region-wide collaboration is the most effective way to advocate for greater decision-making power in the regions and secure funding for infrastructure, disaster recovery and economic development. 

“Joint Organisations give councils a stronger collective voice to advocate for investment in infrastructure, disaster recovery and regional development,” Mr Kemp said. 

“Refusing to join because it is ‘political’ is itself a political move, one that leaves Nambucca Valley sitting on the sidelines while neighbouring councils shape the future of the region.” 

Mr Kemp urged the Council to put the community first and ensure the valley remains fully engaged in the MNCJO.