26/08/2025
THE YORKE PENINSULA COUNCIL MAYORAL RACE IS ON
The South Australian Electoral Commission today starts sending out postal ballots to all registered voters within the Yorke Peninsula Council area.
Remember voting in council elections is NOT compulsory but you should vote if you want your voice to count.
So with there being only 2 candidates you must put the number 1 in the box of your first preference and No 2 in the last box.
Read the instructions carefully and when completed put the envelope in the mail.
The candidates are Councillors Kylie Gray and Michael O'Connell.
The Yorke Peninsula Ratepayers Association is backing Councillor Kylie Gray for Mayor following what it claims is extensive research on both candidates.
A ratepayer from Port Vincent says this is a great opportunity to put a stop to members of the "Rubber Stamp Gang" gaining a further grip on council so vote for Councillor Kylie Gray.
"We have closely observed both candidates over the last couple of years during council meetings, information sessions and in the public arena," the association says.
"Because of this, the YPRPA strongly endorses Kylie Gray as our preferred candidate.
"She has a track record of voting independently and in the best interests of ratepayers and the community.
"As we said in our previous communication, Kylie is committed to efficiency, fairness and due process," the association concluded.
Cr Gray's connection to Yorke Peninsula began in the 1980s, when her parents chose it as the family’s second home.
She says later, when deciding where her sons would have the best chance to grow, learn, and thrive, Yorke Peninsula was the clear winner and it became the permanent home.
"After a decade working in both federal and local government, I shifted my career and opened the first Reformer Pilates studio in the district (Yorketown)," she said.
"This created new opportunities in health, fitness, and rehabilitation across the region - services I still provide today as a dedicated Pilates Instructor with a passion for functional movement for all stages of life.
"Alongside this, I work in equine services and am developing a small-scale primary production business, further grounding me in the realities of regional life.
"I dedicate much of my ‘spare’ time to volunteering, helping local associations strengthen governance, shape strategic plans, and secure grant funding - bringing fresh opportunities and financial support into our communities," Kylie said.
"As the partner of a FIFO worker and mother of two trade-qualified sons (22 and 20), I understand the importance of industries that allow locals to live, learn, and work here at home.
"I bring to the Mayoral role a new vision founded in education and governance.
"With a keen eye for legislation, a love of robust debate, and a firm belief in transparent, community-focused leadership, I want to shift the way Council is perceived - towards positive, practical change for every corner of the Yorke Peninsula," Kylie concluded.
You must have your ballots received by the Electoral Commission by midday on Monday September 22nd.
