Date: 26th August 2026

Muswellbrook Shire Council has accepted the resignation of General Manager Derek Finnigan, closing out a Council career of more than four decades. The resignation was accepted at Council’s Ordinary Meeting on Tuesday, 25 August 2026.

Mr Finnigan began his career with Council as a plant operator in the Works Depot, progressing through a range of operational, infrastructure and senior leadership positions. He was appointed Director of Community Infrastructure in 2018, Deputy General Manager in July 2020, and General Manager in March 2023.

Council said Mr Finnigan had made a significant contribution to infrastructure delivery and service management across the Shire, and was widely recognised within Council and the community for his dedication to the role.

Council has appointed current Director of Economic Investment Shaelee Richards as acting General Manager while it undertakes recruitment for a permanent appointment. Ms Richards has more than 25 years’ experience in local government, including executive roles at Muswellbrook Shire Council, Maitland City Council and the City of Gold Coast. She has led Council’s economic development, governance and community portfolio since 2022.