Cr Narelle Payne was elected as one of Narrandera Shire Council’s nine Councillors in September 2016.

Born and raised in Narrandera, Narelle’s family has a long history here as her grandfather was born at Gillenbah in 1881 and thus her family are true locals in the district.  Narelle attended both Narrandera Public and Narrandera High Schools.  In 1976 she graduated from the Australian National University (ANU) with an Arts Degree, majoring in English and History.  After gaining her Graduate Diploma of Education from CCAE in 1977 she began her teaching career at Wagga High School.  After this, she taught at Coolamon Central School, The Rock Central School and then 23 years at Narrandera High School.  She was a Public School Ambassador and a State Representative at NSWTF State meetings.

Throughout her life Narelle has been very involved in community activities, from being President of the Women’s Softball Association, adjudicating at the John O’Brien Poetry Competition, a committee member on Library, Museum, LHAC, Audit, Stadium and many others.  She has also previously been a Councillor and Deputy Mayor.

Currently, Narelle is on the Regional Quality Control Health Committee.  Health and education are particular areas of interest to Narelle.  She also continues to be a debating adjudicator in several Regional High Schools.

Narelle has travelled extensively to the West Coast of the United States, Great Britain, several European countries, Fiji and South Africa as well as all States and Territories of Australia.

Her interests include reading as a relaxing hobby, photography and keeping up with movies – having seen 26 in cinemas last year.  She loves all types of music and has an extensive music collection.  She is also a keen gardener.  

Narelle is a strong communicator, and enjoys engaging with all groups within our community.  She is a strong advocate of access to equality for all.

Narelle’s personal principle is to leave the world a better place than when you entered it.  Life is to be savoured and family and community are very important.