Our Elected Members
The Queensland local government election was last held in Yarrabah on 16 March 2024. The post-election ceremony to swear in the newly-elected Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council was held on Thursday, 4th April 2024. Mayor-elect Daryl Sexton and the four elected councillors were sworn in as Yarrabah’s elected representatives for a new four-year term.
Mayor Daryl Sexton
Mayor Daryl Sexton began working with Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council in 1995 at just 17 years of age, starting as an apprentice plumber. He completed his apprenticeship and became a qualified Plumber and Drainer in 1999.
Over the years, Mayor Sexton has worked across Council, including in housing and community-focused roles, giving him strong, practical insight into the everyday needs of local families. He has also worked as a Supervisor under Work for Queensland and as a Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB) Men’s Health Officer with Gurriny Yealamucka Health Service, supporting men’s wellbeing and strengthening families in Yarrabah.
Employment and housing are Mayor Sexton’s key priorities and areas of passion. He believes that creating real job opportunities and strong housing outcomes is essential to building a healthy, resilient community.
Mayor Sexton is committed to serving the Yarrabah community and working alongside residents to build a better future — one where everyone can move forward together and benefit equally through shared responsibility, respect, and connection.
Deputy Mayor Amy Neal
Amy Wudan (Yidinji Language) Neal, born in Cairns and raised in Yarrabah, deeply embraces her Yidinji heritage. Her parents, Amy Hyde and Gregorio Canuto, instilled in her a rich cultural legacy. Amy has steadfastly supported her husband, former Mayor Errol (Mala) Neal, and her extensive family.
Throughout her years in Yarrabah, Amy has gained profound insights into her ancestral home. Drawing from Elder teachings, she shares Indigenous heritage through music, art, dance, and storytelling. Amy’s passion for education has led her to teach across Australia, focusing on Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Cape York Peninsula communities.
Recognizing the importance of economic growth, Amy pursued further education in Beauty and Hairdressing, Business, and Community Services. As a seasoned entrepreneur, she brings invaluable expertise to her endeavours. Amy currently coordinates women’s group programs, providing guidance in sewing and mentoring sessions while fostering community well-being. She considers it an honour to serve Yarrabah’s diverse community, pledging to champion positive change and represent all constituents diligently.
Councillor Michael Sands
Michael is a proud native of Yarrabah, where he was born and raised. His education began in Yarrabah, but he travelled by boat to Cairns for high school, highlighting the area’s limited transportation options. After school, he joined Mulgrave Shire Council (MSC), playing a key role in building the first road into Yarrabah, and improving community access.
With over 40 years at MSC, he later transitioned to the Yarrabah Community Council, further contributing to his hometown’s development. Michael has also been active in Rural Fires and the State Emergency Service (SES), showcasing his commitment to community safety. His deep connection to Yarrabah has led him to serve as a Councillor, both during the Community days and with the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council, where his dedication continues to enrich the community.
Councillor Brian Underwood
Councillor Brian Underwood has lived in Yarrabah his entire life and has strong family and cultural connections to the community, including Reeves Creek and Djenghi. His parents continue to live in Yarrabah, and he comes from a close-knit family of six siblings.
Brian completed his schooling in Yarrabah, attending Yarrabah Primary School and Yarrabah High School, before completing Year 11 at Gordonvale State High School.
With over 20 years of experience working in the Yarrabah community, Brian has held a variety of roles across community services, health, education, and culture. His work includes positions with the Yarrabah CDEP Program, local schools, the Yarrabah Art Centre and Museum, and many years at the Gindaja Treatment and Healing Centre in support and aftercare roles. More recently, he has worked as an Indigenous Health Worker with Gurriny Yealamucka Health Service.
First elected to Council in 2020 and re-elected in 2024, Brian brings strong local knowledge and a genuine commitment to the health, wellbeing, and future of Yarrabah.
Councillor Hezron Murgha
Councillor Hezron Murgha is a devoted family man and father of four, deeply rooted in the Yarrabah community with traditional ties to the Gunggandji and Yidinji peoples. With over 15 years in rugby league, he has fostered local talent through his work with the Northern Pride and North Queensland Cowboys, while also volunteering to mentor players at local clubs.
In addition to his sports commitments, Councillor Murgha has over seven years of experience in the drug and alcohol rehabilitation sector with Gindaja Treatment and Healing, where he supports individuals on their recovery journeys. Elected in a by-election in 2022 and re-elected for the 2024-2028 term, his leadership prioritizes cultural preservation, social welfare, and community empowerment in Yarrabah.
Councillor Complaints Register
The Councillor Complaints Register provides a transparent record of complaints made about Councillors in accordance with legislative and governance requirements. It supports Council’s commitment to accountability, ethical conduct, and public confidence in local government decision-making.
The register is available for download below and is updated in line with Council policies and relevant regulatory obligations.