August 24th, 2026Janet Dore interim CEO of Hepburn Shire Council.

The appointment takes Ms Dore from the role of acting CEO to interim until a permanent CEO is appointed.
Mayor Cr Tony Clark said he was delighted the appointment of an interim CEO was the first decision made by the reinstated councillors.
“Appointing Janet to the interim CEO role provides the organisation with stability while we carry out the recruitment for the permanent CEO.
“Janet has been in the role of acting CEO and comes with extensive experience steering large organisations, in the private and local government sectors. She has already gained the confidence of our staff and is keen to work with our community to start a new chapter for Hepburn Shire.”
Ms Dore said the appointment would give her the opportunity to continue her work with councillors, community and staff to deliver the council’s program of projects and services.
“Hepburn Shire has been through difficult times, dealing with private criminal prosecutions leading to the standing down of five councillors. With councillors reinstated and our decision-making ability restored, we can get on with important council business.”
It was reported in the last edition of The Local that five of Hepburn Shire’s councillors and former CEO Bradley Thomas had been cleared of private criminal charges brought against them by local resident and businessman, David Penman.
The councillors, Don Henderson, Tony Clark, Shirley Cornish, Pat Hockey and Lesley Hewitt, have all returned to work.
It is anticipated the recruitment process for a permanent CEO will start in the next few weeks. Words: Donna Kelly | Image: Contributed