Mayor Philip Penfold

First elected as a councillor in 2008 and as mayor since 2021, Mayor Philip Penfold was born and raised in Maitland. He studied at Maitland Boys High School and Rutherford High School, played football with Rutherford Football and the Maitland Magpies and went on to twice be declared a national karate champion. 

During a stint living in the United States where he saw first hand the positive impact of community working together, Philip was inspired to run for council, citing a desire to have a seat at the table and make a difference.   

Philip is a Justice of the Peace, holds a Diploma in Financial Services and had a career background as a bank manager. He is an eager contributor to his community and an advocate for causes such as homelessness and support for men in distress.  

His priorities include sound financial management, a focus on sporting and recreation infrastructure, and improvements to roads and traffic congestion.    

'Maitland has wonderful parks and facilities, which present plenty of opportunities to promote an active and healthy lifestyle for families.’ 

'What I love about Maitland is its proximity to everything. It's 30 minutes to the beach and the vineyards or 90 minutes to Sydney. The lifestyle that comes with that is unparalleled. Beyond this, the people of Maitland are its best quality.'