Ms Wilkes had served in Mid Coast Ward since November 2022.

She announced her decision on social media, saying her “heart is heavy and it’s going to take time to heal”. Cryptically, she said she would “loosely commit to sharing the details – all good, bad and unpleasant when the time comes.”

The Council says a supplementary election won’t be required due to the vacancy occurring within 12 months of a periodic election.

In an official announcement, it was the Council’s CEO Sharon Mason who acknowledged Ms Wilkes contribution to the council.