Moreton Bay City Councillor resigns

Moreton Bay City Councillor Darren Grimwade has today resigned as the representative for Division 11.

Cr Grimwade informed Mayor Peter Flannery and CEO Scott Waters of his decision to quit due to family reasons.

In a statement he said: “In late 2024, my wife (Lisa) was presented with an opportunity to progress her career as a Midwife Navigator in Outback Queensland. After dedicating two decades to the health system, it was her time to lead and serve in an area in desperate need of her expertise.

“So, as a family we decided to support my wife with this opportunity. In late 2024 she moved to Longreach to follow her passion, and I remained in Moreton Bay, continuing to serve Division 11 while commuting between two lives 1300km apart.

“It has become clear that in order to truly support my wife, we need to live our next chapter together. So, after much reflection and thought, I have today tendered my resignation to the CEO of Moreton Bay City Council.

“It is rare that politicians get the opportunity to depart on their own terms, and I am very grateful to be given the opportunity to do so.”

In a statement Mayor Flannery said: “I have personally worked alongside Darren since 2012 when he was elected to the Queensland Parliament as the (State) Member for Morayfield, and more closely as a colleague from his first election as a Councillor in 2016.

“He is a proud local and a passionate advocate for his community. We have worked on many exciting citywide projects together including our push for the Peninsula Rail line, our own Moreton Bay university and the regeneration of the Petrie Mill site.

“Darren worked tirelessly for his division and advocated strongly and successfully for state and federal funding for many local projects – the list is too long to mention.

“A decision like this is not easy. With family front of mind though, Darren will be supporting his wife Lisa and family in Outback Queensland as she pursues her career there.”

Mayor Flannery said Cr Grimwade left Council and the City of Moreton Bay “in a better place, on a positive note and at a time of his choosing. I admire Darren for this.

“On behalf of the Council, CEO and staff and residents of City of Moreton Bay I wish him and his family all the best for their future.”

Residents can continue to contact the Division 11 office, with Cr Cath Tonks and Cr Tony Latter will share responsibilities for the area in the interim.

The CEO will now contact the Queensland Electoral Commissioner so a by-election can be arranged.

Farewelling a community

In his statement, Cr Grimwade said, when he was first elected to Council in 2016, he made a promise.

“I said I wasn’t here to be a lifelong politician, but rather to serve with purpose, deliver meaningful outcomes, and represent our community with integrity,” he said.

“That promise has been the driving force behind everything I’ve done for nearly a decade.

“From the mountain communities of Mount Nebo and Mount Glorious, through to Samford, Dayboro, and down to the high-growth corridors of Narangba, we’ve worked hard together to shape a region that respects its rural charm, celebrates its vibrant village life and plans responsibly for a growing future.

“But beyond the projects we have delivered and the planning for the future – for me, it’s always been about people.

“As someone born at Redcliffe Hospital, raised in Kippa-Ring, and now a long-time resident of Narangba, I’ve dedicated my life to this region, having never resided outside of it.

“I’ve worn many hats, as a business owner, a State Member of Parliament, a board member at a Community Bank, a committee and life member at various clubs and organisations throughout the Moreton Bay region, however the one I’ve been most proud to wear has been that of your trusted local representative.”