Cr Harold Tracey steps down as Shire President
Published on 24 February 2023
Broome Shire President Harold Tracey has announced he is stepping down from the top role due to family reasons.
Cr Tracey was first elected to Council in 2013 and became Shire President since 2017 after serving as Deputy Shire President for three years.
He will remain Shire president until the March 30 Ordinary Meeting of Council, when a new Shire President will be elected from amongst the seven other councillors.
His replacement will be in the role until the October 2023 local-government election, when a popularly elected shire president will be elected.
Cr Tracey intends to remain on council until at least October 2025, when his current term ends - councillors are elected to a four-year term, with elections held every two years.
He said it was a difficult decision to step down from the role of Shire President and added it has been a privilege and a joy to represent the Shire of Broome as President for the past six years. But leaving now was important for his family.
“This is the hardest decision I have ever made because I have loved the job,” Cr Tracey said.
“I’m a very proud Broome boy and I believe we have achieved an incredible amount during my tenure.”
Shire of Broome CEO Sam Mastrolembo paid tribute to Cr Tracey, saying he has been a tireless advocate for Broome.
“He has been the public face of the Shire and Council and a tremendous leader in his timeas Shire President,” Mr Mastrolembo said.
“He has also worked incredibly hard behind the scenes to lobby other tiers of Government for the benefit our community.
“There have been many achievements and successes including advocacy for funding for major projects and a shake up of resources and policies to address youth crime, alcohol-related harm, housing and many other community priorities.
“His collaboration, leadership and accomplishments through the Kimberley Regional Group have also been extensive.
“The silver lining to his decision is that he will remain on Council.”