Brewarrina Shire Council has extended the contract of General Manager David Kirby for a further five years, following the completion of his annual performance review.

Mayor Tom Stanton said the decision reflects Council’s confidence in Mr Kirby’s ongoing leadership and the progress achieved across the shire since his appointment in 2022.

“David has helped guide our Shire through one of its most active and ambitious periods of investment and renewal,” Mayor Stanton said.

“Under his leadership, Council has secured record levels of funding, advanced the largest public works program in our history and delivered strong financial results.

“Major projects like the Main Street Reactivation, the Multipurpose Complex and our shire‑wide Active Transport upgrades are progressing strongly, and we’ve already delivered important community improvements including the Four Mile Reserve redevelopment, the first formalised pathway in Weilmoringle, and new pathway links in Goodooga connecting the town centre with the bore baths and school.

“David’s leadership has also strengthened Council’s focus on cultural heritage, youth development and flood‑recovery resilience. This extension provides stability as we continue delivering these major projects for our community.”

Mr Kirby said he was honoured by Council’s decision and proud of the progress made so far.

“It’s a privilege to serve the Brewarrina community, and I’m grateful for the confidence Council has placed in me,” Mr Kirby said.

“Over the past four years we’ve secured tens of millions of dollars in funding to better our shire, funding that is now turning into real improvements for residents, visitors and local businesses alike.

“I’m particularly proud that we’ve delivered the first ever formalised pathways in Weilmoringle and Goodooga, giving residents safer, connected routes to key destinations. Walking safely to the shops or school is something many take for granted.

“The upgrade of Four Mile Reserve, one of our most popular spots for locals and travellers, has also been a standout achievement. Not just in terms of its usability, but also its long-term resilience due to its flood-prone location.

“Our road network continues to improve with the sealing of Jobs Gate Road, widening works on Goodooga Road, the Brenda Road culverts, and extensive gravel resheeting across priority rural routes. These upgrades make a real difference for families, freight, emergency access and everyday travel.

“Financially, we’ve strengthened Council’s position by moving the shire out of debt, delivering robust operational results, and achieving clean governance audits through our Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee framework. That stability means we can keep delivering for our communities with confidence.”

Mr Kirby said he looked forward to continuing the work already underway.

“There is still a lot to do, but the foundations are strong. I’m committed to working with Councillors, staff and our communities to deliver the projects and improvements the Brewarrina Shire deserves.”

The five‑year extension provides long‑term stability for Council as it continues delivering major infrastructure, community facilities and road network upgrades across Brewarrina, Goodooga, Weilmoringle and Gongolgon.