Councillor Resigns Amid Allegations, Launceston Moves Forward

0:00City of Longhurst and Counselor Danny Gibson resigned today after 15 years on the council. He had said before he wouldn't run again, but this step down came right before tonight's meeting. No by-election will happen since local elections are set for October. Back in 2023, reports surfaced about unwanted advances from Gibson, including physical contact, calls and texts. Tasmania's Justice Department reviewed his working with vulnerable people registration and found he posed an unacceptable risk of harm, especially to kids, based on allegations like grooming and indecent assault. The mayor, Matthew Garwood, thanked Gibson at the meeting for his steady service through changes at council. Gibson himself said the timing felt right with elections near, and no need to fill the seat, calling it a privilege, despite challenges. Gibson was once mayor until stepping down last year, blaming media attacks on his mental health. He's big in long-testance theater world too, directing shows, acting and teaching drama

1:01to youth. With polls coming up soon, his exit wraps a long chapter, leaving room for reflection as the city moves forward. Local news, powered by AI, this is Sydney News Today. I'm Corey with The Story.