Councillors
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
Email: Mayor@yarrabah.qld.gov.au
Mayor Sexton is a Descendant of the Local Gungganji Tribe of Yarrabah. He was elected as Mayor for the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council in the 2024 quadrennial local government elections.
Prior to his mayoralty, Mayor Sexton held various positions within the Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council, including plumber, housing officer, and Work 4 Queensland Supervisor. Additionally, he contributed to the local Gurriny Yealamucka Health Service as a Social & Emotional Wellbeing Men’s Health Assistant.
Driven by a deep passion for his community and a commitment to uplifting his people, Mayor Sexton strives for improved opportunities and a brighter future for the Community of Yarrabah.
Deputy Mayor Michael Sands
Email: msands@yarrabah.qld.gov.au
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.
Register of Interests Annual
Councillor Amy Neal
Email: aneal@yarrabah.qld.gov.au
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 Brian Underwood
Email: bunderwood@yarrabah.qld.gov.au
Councillor Hezron Murgha
Email: hmurgha@yarrabah.qld.gov.au
Mayor 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, Mayor 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.
Acknowledgement of Country
The Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council (YASC) wishes to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land within the shire boundaries – the Gunggandji and Yidinji peoples; and the area agreements developed through previous negotiations that provide clear opportunities and processes for traditional owners to be formally involved in the land planning process.
The Yarrabah Aboriginal Shire Council also wishes to acknowledge the historical people brought here to Yarrabah from various locations by government policies of the past.
