Hobart Deputy Lord Mayor Zelinda Sherlock is facing renewed scrutiny as a controversy over council-provided food and drinks continues to develop, with some councillors pushing for further investigation into what has become known as the city’s “Snackgate” saga.
The dispute began after it was revealed that Cr Sherlock had taken food and beverages supplied for elected members from the Hobart Town Hall lounge for personal use. The items included snacks and drinks that were intended for council-related purposes. Sherlock acknowledged taking the items and said she believed they were a workplace benefit, describing the situation as a misunderstanding of council policy.
The issue gained further attention after CCTV footage obtained through Right to Information (RTI) laws showed Cr Sherlock and another person leaving the elected members’ lounge with bags containing items from the council area. Documents released through the RTI process also included internal council communications about missing refreshments.
Council staff had previously noticed that supplies in the elected members’ lounge were disappearing faster than expected. Internal emails raised concerns about missing drinks and snacks, including items such as soft drinks, alcohol, chocolates and other refreshments.
Cr Sherlock later referred herself to Tasmania’s Integrity Commission over the matter. The commission decided not to investigate, finding that the issue did not meet the threshold for misconduct. Despite this decision, several Hobart councillors have continued to call for further action.
Councillors including Louise Elliot, Will Coats, John Kelly and Marti Zucco have argued that the matter requires an independent review. A proposed motion calling for an investigation by the Director of Local Government is expected to be considered by Hobart City Council.
The controversy intensified after an email sent by Councillor Louise Elliot to Cr Sherlock suggested she should resign from council. Sherlock’s legal representative later referred the communication to Tasmania’s Police Commissioner, arguing that it could amount to improper pressure or blackmail. Elliot rejected that claim, describing the allegation as unreasonable.
Cr Sherlock has strongly defended her position, describing the ongoing criticism as a politically motivated attack. She said the matter had already been reviewed by relevant bodies and that she had apologised for the misunderstanding. She has stated that she intends to continue serving Hobart residents.
The timing of the dispute has attracted additional attention because Cr Sherlock is expected to take on the role of acting Hobart Lord Mayor following the resignation of current Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds, before Tasmania’s local government elections later in the year.
The saga has raised broader questions about council transparency, elected member accountability and the use of taxpayer-funded resources. Supporters of further investigation argue that public officials must maintain high standards of integrity, while Sherlock’s supporters say the matter has already been addressed and is being politically amplified.
The dispute remains unresolved, with Hobart City Council expected to consider the next steps as councillors continue debating whether additional action is required.
