Ms Larkin has been Interim General Manager since 31 July 2026. She joined the council in 2017 and has held a range of leadership roles across the organisation. Her permanent appointment takes effect on Monday 26 October 2026.

Mayor Cr Nick White said Ms Larkin knows the organisation and the region, and has strong relationships in the community. He said her leadership would give the council the stability, continuity and momentum to turn major investments into lasting benefits.

Council’s priorities include construction of the new Sewer Treatment Plant, continued development of the Hunter Park Precinct, and implementation of its Digital Transformation ICT Roadmap. Investment in aged care and disability services also continues, including new staff accommodation to support workforce attraction and retention. Council will review this year’s events, including the 2026 Goin’ to Gil Festival Weekend and Under the Gums, as it plans for 2027.

Ms Larkin nominated strengthening communication between council and the community, progressing the Hunter Park Precinct and delivering the broader infrastructure program as her key areas of focus. She said she wanted to create more opportunities for residents to ask questions and share ideas, and to balance council’s ambitions with what it can realistically deliver.

Cr White said the appointment comes as the council pursues its ambition to grow the region “Towards 5000”.