Home > About LGANT > The Board > Mayor Lynette De Santis
Born and raised in Darwin, Lynette moved to the Tiwi Islands in 1985 to reconnect with her cultural roots, as her mother was part of the Stolen Generations.
Lynette is a remarkable Tiwi woman who has shattered barriers and made history as the first female Tiwi Islander to hold the esteemed position of Mayor. Lynette also holds the record as the longest-serving Mayor of the Islands, having been elected for three terms from 2008 to 2017 and then re-elected in 2023.
With over two decades of experience in the community and local government, Lynette has been a witness to the evolution of the sector. Her leadership extends beyond the local level, as she has previously served as an Executive Member for LGANT during the 2014-2016 term. Lynette is a relentless advocate for First Nations people and is a strong, unwavering leader for all the communities of the Tiwi Islands.
Her influence goes beyond the Islands, as she has effectively engaged with state and Commonwealth Governments, not-for-profit organisations, and private entities, demonstrating her breadth of experience and understanding of governance principles and practices. What truly sets Lynette apart is her deep involvement in the community. From working at the local shop or takeaway to serving as a health worker at the clinic, she has consistently dedicated herself to the betterment of her community.
Lynette’s passion and commitment to serving the Tiwi Islands makes her an invaluable leader and advocate for the First Nations people.
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In the spirit of reconciliation, the Local Government Association of the Northern Territory acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.