Former Byron Shire Mayor Retains Council Seat Despite Domestic Violence Charges
Michael Lyon, the former mayor of Byron Shire, has retained his position as a councillor despite facing domestic violence charges. He was arrested and charged in August with assaulting his wife and has pleaded not guilty to common assault and stalking or intimidating with intent to cause fear or physical harm. The matter is due to return to court in March 2024.
Lyon's bid for a third term as mayor was unsuccessful, but he managed to secure a seat as an independent councillor by a narrow margin. He acknowledged that running for office while facing criminal charges was a gamble, but he felt it was important to continue serving the community.
Lyon's victory came despite losing an application to prevent the media from reporting on the allegations against him. Police were called to a property in The Pocket following reports of a domestic incident, where they were told a man had allegedly assaulted a woman known to him before fleeing the scene.
Greens candidate Sarah Ndiaye will replace Lyon as mayor. She has called for the community to work together with all elected councillors, stating that it is in the best interest of the community to do so. She acknowledged the personal matter that Lyon needs to address, but emphasized the importance of making the best decisions for the community in the meantime.
The Byron Shire Council election required a quota of 2,050 votes for a candidate to secure a seat on the council.