Hobart's city council voted 5 to 3 on Monday, July 28th, 2026, to refer a matter concerning Deputy Lord Mayor Zelinda Sherlock and the taking home of snacks and drinks from the council's Elected Members' Lounge to Tasmania Police and the director of local government. The council noted it "makes no finding concerning the conduct of any person while those independent processes remain incomplete."

Deputy Lord Mayor Sherlock has apologized, stating she misunderstood the council's policy regarding the snacks. She reiterated on social media that she had already been investigated over the matter and confirmed she will not be leaving the council.

Some fellow councillors, including Councillor Louise Elliot, have called for further investigations and for Sherlock to step down. Elliot emphasized the need for proper authorities to review all evidence and take the matter seriously with independent scrutiny.

City of Hobart chief executive Michael Stretton, in a letter to the Office of Local Government and Tasmania Police, acknowledged that despite previous considerations by these bodies and independent legal advisers, differing views remain about the conduct and the adequacy of the council's response. Stretton assured that the council would continue to provide any additional records, correspondence, file notes, CCTV material, legal advice, council reports, and supporting documentation if requested.

The controversy has drawn attention to governance responsibilities within the council, with some critics expressing dissatisfaction with the council's handling of the issue.

Zelinda Sherlock
Zelinda Sherlock pictured with a companion in the council car park on January 10 at 10:13pm (Supplied)

Notable Quotes

  • The council "makes no finding concerning the conduct of any person while those independent processes remain incomplete."
  • Michael Stretton: "Notwithstanding previous consideration by Tasmania Police, the Office of Local Government and independent legal advisers, differing views continue to exist regarding both the conduct itself and the adequacy of the City of Hobart's response."
  • Stretton also said the council would "continue to make available any additional records, correspondence, file notes, CCTV material, legal advice, council reports and supporting documentation should they be requested."
  • Councillor Louise Elliot: "All I have wanted is for the proper authorities … to have every snippet of evidence and for the council to ask them to take the matter seriously with their independent eyes."
  • Sherlock on social media: She "had misunderstood council policy and that she had already been investigated over the matter."

Sources