Launceston Mayor Danny Gibson has resigned after seven months in the top job and will be leaving council tomorrow.
In a statement, Gibson said ‘relentless attacks’ and speculation surrounding his Working with Vulnerable People Registration are the primary reason for his departure.
“I have loved being Mayor and I’ve given my all – more than my all – but the past few weeks have been too much,” he said.
“This issue has taken a massive toll on my well-being and it has become a distraction from the important work of the City of Launceston.”
“I am devastated but I have reached the conclusion that my stepping down is in the best interests of Launceston and our local government sector.”
The Mayor clarified that no final resolution had been reached regarding his registration, which had allowed ‘baseless claims and allegations’ to circulate freely online.
“I wish I had the strength to rise above it, to battle through it, but my mental heath has reached breaking point,” Gibson said.
“It is clear that the individuals spreading smear, innuendo, and outright lies about me will stop at nothing in their attempts to destroy me and my reputation.”
Mayor Gibson’s resignation will be effective from tomorrow, as regulations prevent him from staying on until a replacement is determined.
A spokesperson from the City of Launceston said Deputy Mayor Matthew Garwood will now become Acting Mayor of the City of Launceston until a new election for Mayor can be arranged by the Tasmanian Electoral Commission.
“The Council will work with the Commission over coming weeks to finalise this process, and more details will be provided as they come to hand,” the council said.
“Following a period of leave, Cr Gibson will continue to serve as a Councillor at the City of Launceston.”
At present, Gibson does not intend to provide further comments on the matter.
