Nick Dametto, a former state MP from Katter’s Australian Party, has claimed victory in the Townsville mayoral byelection with more than 61% of the vote. The byelection was triggered by the resignation of former mayor Troy Thompson, who faced allegations of misleading voters about his military service.
Dametto, 42, ran as an independent after resigning from Katter’s party last month. He thanked residents who voted for “hope” and pledged to “build the capital of northern Australia”. Acting mayor Ann-Maree Greaney conceded, saying she looked forward to working with Dametto.
The result marks a significant swing against Thompson, who received only 5% of the vote and finished fifth. Political analyst Paul Williams of Griffith University described it as “one of the biggest swings in any Australian election”. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli congratulated Dametto, stating the result gives Townsville “the local leadership it needs and deserves”.
Dametto has been involved in anti-immigration marches and campaigned for a minister for men and “castle law” allowing deadly force against intruders. He is known for his muscular physique, having appeared shirtless on the front page of the local newspaper under the headline “Minister for Muscles”. Despite his populist right-wing background, he has avoided major controversy, according to Williams.
