General Manager David Sherley to Retire

General Manager David Sherley has announced his plans to retire at the start of 2027 from his position at Bathurst Regional Council. 

Mr Sherley has been in the role since 2004, having started at Council in the position of Director of Corporate Services in March 1998. 

He said after discussions with his family it was now time to step away from life in local government and spend time on other pursuits including plans for travel and of course being able to spend more time with family and the grandchildren.  

"It has not been an easy decision. There is never the right time to step away from a role like this, but I think for me, that time has now come," stated Mr Sherley. 

Earlier this year Mr Sherley was recognised in the Australia Day honours with a Public Service Medal for service to Local Government and the Bathurst Region. The award noted Mr Sherley's 37 years of public service in NSW and his leading of several transformative projects, reflecting his dedication to enhancing the region's Infrastructure, cultural institutions and community resilience.  

Mr Sherley said he was proud of the many achievements of the Council during his tenure as General Manager, which started with the amalgamation of Bathurst City and Evans Shire Councils in 2004. 

"Across the last two decades we have seen major changes in our community with the growth and expansion of the city. 

"This has been supported by major infrastructure projects such as the  the completion of the flood levee system in Bathurst and Perthville, sporting precinct developments including Hereford Street and Proctor Park, the construction of the Rail Museum and the Central Tablelands Collections Facility and Winburndale Dam update and the water harvesting project which will help sure up water security for a growing city. 

"Council delivers services and facilities that the community rely on, but also those that contribute to making Bathurst and the region a great place to live and work.  To be able to  add to the fabric that makes Bathurst what it is, is a privilege," remarked Mr Sherley. 

Mayor Cr Robert Taylor paid tribute to Mr Sherley and his leadership of Council as General Manager. 

"David has led the organisation with dedication and professionalism. His depth of knowledge of local government is remarkable and his retirement will mark the end of an era for Bathurst Regional Council. 

"Personally, David has been invaluable in his support during my terms as Mayor.  

"More broadly, on behalf of the Council and the staff of Bathurst Regional Council I would like to wish David all the best for his retirement and once again thank him for his service to Council and our community," Cr Taylor said. 

Mr Sherley will retire on Friday 29 January 2027. 

Council will commence the recruitment process for a new General Manager in coming weeks. 

Media contact: Genevieve Green Media and Communications Officer  

P: 02 6333 6179 M: 0448 685 340 E: genevieve.green@bathurst.nsw.gov.au