After months of speculation, Antonio said today would resign effectively on Friday, July 21.

Because the next council elections would be in March next year there is no requirement to hold an election to fill the vacant office of Mayor. Council must now meet and formally decide which of them will take the post until the next election. This meeting will be chaired by the Deputy Mayor, who will automatically become the Acting Mayor at 12.01pm on July 21, 2023.

Antonio said this term was always going to be his last even though he won the last poll with about 72 per cent of the vote.

“I’m first and foremost a farmer, and I’ve long lived by the lessons of the land, its seasons and the power of renewal,” he said.

“After consulting with my family, I have decided to formally announce my decision to leave office, effective from July 21, 2023,” he said.

“It has been an honour to serve my community, firstly at Millmerran, then on the wider Toowoomba Regional Council since March 2008.

“Little could I have imagined progressing from my first term on the former Millmerran Shire in the early 1980s to a career in local government that has spanned almost 42 years.

“While there have been many changes over the years, my work has centred around my willingness to meet and deal with people across all sectors of our community.

“Local government plays a vital role in building and improving communities and providing essential services for our residents. While it comes with challenges, it is rewarding to see benefits delivered to our communities.

“The role of Mayor has allowed me to broaden this approach and advocate for our fair share of funding or assistance from the higher levels of government. It has also provided a rare chance for me to promote the unrivalled lifestyle benefits that we enjoy and the prospects that we can offer to families, business owners and investors.

“While there is some sadness about leaving office, there always will be something more to achieve. I am proud of the work that has been completed during my time in office and the groundwork that has been laid for our region’s future.

“I am equally positive that council has the talent and drive to set the course for an even brighter future for the Toowoomba Region.”

Mayor Antonio said he was looking forward to personally thanking and recognising the organisations and scores of friends who had been instrumental in helping him over his entire career.