General News
21 July, 2025
Council responds to elder's conviction
Yarriambiack Shire Council chief executive officer Tammy Smith has issued a public statement following the conviction of Ronald Marks for possessing child abuse material.
Mrs Smith confirmed the council was informed of Marks’ guilty plea on the evening of Thursday, July 3, following media reports about his court appearance in Horsham Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, July 2.
She said Marks delivered cultural awareness programs at the council's kindergartens as part of the State Government-funded School Readiness Program.
"Confirmation was received by Council yesterday evening (Thursday, July 3) that Mr Marks had pleaded guilty to charges alleging possession of child abuse material when news reports about his court case were made public," she said.
"Mr Marks has not worked at or attended a Kindergarten in our Shire in 2025.
This does not diminish the seriousness of the offences."
Mrs Smith said the council had not been informed of any allegations or arrest prior to the court proceedings.
She said the council began an internal investigation regarding the engagement of Marks' services.
"We will be working closely with our neighbouring early childhood education and care providers and the Department of Education to understand how we were not made aware of Mr Marks' arrest in 2021," Mrs Smith said.
Mrs Smith also confirmed that discussions had commenced regarding the Sheep Hills silo art, which features an image of Marks.
“It was immediately recognised that his image would prompt objections from the community and requests for its removal,” she said.
“The council has engaged with the artist who created the mural, and we are working collaboratively with both the artist and representatives of the Barengi Gadjin Land Council to plan a redesign.”
Mrs Smith said work could begin as early as July 17.
The CEO said she was available to meet with anyone who wishes to discuss the matter further; contact the council office via 5398 0100 to arrange a meeting.
Member for Lowan Emma Kealy said the news was distressing for the whole community and acknowledged that many people would feel "hurt, confused, and betrayed".
"This has been an incredibly difficult and distressing week for many Victorians, especially in our local and Indigenous communities,” Ms Kealy said.
"The news surrounding the conviction of a respected community member has come as a deep shock.”
"It is essential that as a community we stand together in unwavering support to protect our children - whether to be against sex offenders, bullying and assault, or any other illegal behaviour.”