Council farewells Deputy Mayor Hugh McKenzie and Cr Lindi McMahon

Published on 29 October 2026

City of Launceston Councillors have met for the final time in its current configuration, at the last Council meeting before the finalisation of votes in the local government elections.

While the outcome of the vote is still unknown, City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood made tribute to all his fellow Councillors, in particular acknowledging retiring Councillors Deputy Mayor Hugh McKenzie and Councillor Lindi McMahon who are not recontesting their positions.

Mayor Garwood, who has been declared by the Tasmanian Electoral Commission as being returned as Mayor of the City of Launceston said civic life as an elected member of local government was not easy, and often the work went unnoticed by the public.

"To all Councillors, regardless of if, when or how your time around this table comes to an end, I want to acknowledge your contributions around this table and your commitment to the city.

"We haven't always agreed, but I have always appreciated your willingness to put the community first and thank you for taking the opportunity to step forward and shape our city's future," he said.

Deputy Mayor McKenzie retires from the City of Launceston Council after 15 years at the Council. He was first elected in 2011 and assumed the Deputy Mayor position in 2023.

Cr McMahon was elected to the City of Launceston Council in 2022 and has been a passionate contributor around the Council table.

Mayor Garwood said local government was a difficult role, but a rewarding one.

"We know local government isn't easy and there's an enormous amount of time, energy and commitment that goes into the role. But the work that has gone on and your contribution here won't just disappear; it lives on in the decisions and policies of the Council moving forward."

The next Council meeting will be held on Tuesday 24 November at 5pm.