Administrator Sheed steps down for family

The panel's mandate, stemming from a Commission of Inquiry, is to implement good governance and tackle key issues within Moira Shire Council.

Additionally, during Ms Sheed’s time with council, her focus has been on advocating for socio-economic improvement and growth for the region, as well as setting a long-term strategic approach that is community focussed.

Administrator Sheed said a key achievement for the Panel of Administrators had been establishing a strong leadership culture at council, which includes the commencement of new CEO Matthew Morgan in January 2024 and the subsequent focus on rebuilding effective leadership and accountability across council.

“As administrators, we have worked hard over the past 18 months to address the challenges faced by Moira Shire Council focusing on establishing robust governance practices and assembling a dedicated leadership team,” Administrator Sheed said.

“The work that has been undertaken, not only within the executive leadership, but at every level of leadership within the organisation, has been important to create the foundational improvements needed and which will serve the community well into the future.

“Advocacy has been critical for the Panel of Administrators. During recent years, and particularly during the last 12 months, the region has faced significant challenges and impacts from changes in policy decisions, especially around water buy backs.

“These have had, and will continue to have, a major impact on the Moira region, and it has been important for us as Administrators to continue to undertake advocacy at every level to improve outcomes for our region.”

Administrator Sheed also served as the Chair of the Goulburn Valley Libraries Board, as well as Chairing the Numurkah Flood Levee Committee and working closely on the Barmah Forest Heritage and Education Centre revitalisation.

“It’s been a privilege to work with the residents and communities of Moira Shire, and it is an honour to have worked in a region that I am so familiar with,” Administrator Sheed said.

“I’m proud to have seen significant progress within council during the last 18 months and there is much opportunity and growth to look forward to in Moira Shire’s future.

“I am sad to be leaving as we enter a year which is poised to deliver some important outcomes and milestones for our communities including delivering long-awaited projects such as the Numurkah Flood Levee, the Yarrawonga Library and the Yarrawonga Multisports Stadium.

“However, I know council will continue to see progress and growth under the expert guidance of Chair Administrator Emonson.”

Moira Shire Council Chair Administrator Dr Graeme Emonson PSM said Administrator Sheed had been integral in building a stable, functional council which is focused on the community it serves.

“Administrator Sheed’s guidance and expertise has been a strong pillar for the Panel of Administrators to set the foundations for good governance, and for council to operate effectively and decisively,” Dr Emonson said.

“She has been an unwavering champion for Moira Shire, using every opportunity to advocate for better outcomes, particularly around the negative socio-economic impacts of open market water buy backs, leveraging support to improve road safety through funding for critical upgrades, working with community leaders to address family and gender-based violence, and helping to drive conversations around improving housing, connectivity and disaster readiness.”

Moira Shire Council Chief Executive Matthew Morgan thanked Administrator Sheed on behalf of council for her leadership and guidance and wished her all the best with what comes next.

“Administrator Sheed’s strong leadership has been crucial as council worked through significant periods of challenge and change, but also as we reset a path to good governance for a positive future where our region can thrive,” Mr Morgan said.

“We’ll continue to work with recently appointed Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos to ensure the panel has strong leadership and governance to best serve the Moira Shire.”

Administrator Sheed finishes on Friday, February 7.