Mackenzie mayor shares cancer diagnosis

Tuesday, 28 January 2025

Mackenzie District mayor Anne Munro has confirmed she will step aside from her role to undergo treatment for cancer after being diagnosed just before Christmas.

In a statement issued on Tuesday afternoon, Munro said, “I will be taking some time away from my role as mayor while I undergo initial treatment. During that period, deputy mayor Karen Morgan will carry out my functions and responsibilities, and I know that council is in safe hands in my absence.

“While I acknowledge that the mayoralty is a public role, I would appreciate being given some space and privacy for the next few months, while my family and I come to terms with what lies ahead of us.

“I know that so many in our community have had their lives impacted by cancer, and that you will understand some of what we are going through.”

Munro, who was appointed to the role following the local body elections in October 2022, said she would not be making any further comment at this stage.

“I won’t be making any further comment, but will provide an update at an appropriate time in the future. Thank you for your understanding.”

Prior to being appointed mayor, Munro was a two-term councillor and replaced two-term mayor and five-term local body politics veteran Graham Smith in the top job.