From punk band drummer to Byron Shire councillor

A NEW Byron Shire councillor has stepped into the role with a focus on housing, infrastructure and preserving the region’s character.

Peter Doherty said his priorities include advancing the completion of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail through the shire, helping address the housing crisis and supporting sustainable development.

A drummer in a punk band in his youth, he is also passionate about strengthening the local arts and live music scene.

Behind the scenes, he has been working to help reopen much-loved community venue The Bowlo in Bangalow, which was shuttered last October.

Doherty joined council following a countback from the 2024 local government election after the resignation of fellow Bangalow resident councillor Asren Pugh in March.

“I have known Asren for years and it feels like a natural progression,” he said.

 

“We have worked together well having both come from the trade union movement. We share similar values.”

Originally from England, Doherty met his future wife, a Byron Bay local, while travelling as a backpacker.

The couple settled in the Northern Rivers in 2010.

Doherty now works as an advanced scheduler in home care with the not-for-profit, Christian-based organisation BaptistCare. A father of two, Doherty also co-founded Bangalow Koalas in 2016.

He was previously a member of the Labour Party in the UK and said he joined the ALP because it stands for social justice, equality, workers’ rights and a fair go for all citizens.

Doherty said he is looking forward to contributing to decision-making in the region. “It’s an exciting opportunity and a chance to make a difference and give back to the community,” he said.