Councillor Russell Fitzpatrick has been re-elected Mayor of Bega Valley Shire Council, with Councillor Cathy Griff elected to take on the role of Deputy Mayor.
Mayor Fitzpatrick said it was an honour to be returned to the top job.
“I’m humbled and honoured to be re-elected and look forward to delivering to our community over the next 12 months. I thank my fellow councillors for their support,” he said.
“Congratulations to Councillor Griff on her election to Deputy Mayor and Councillor Karen Wright for standing for the position, I look forward to working with them.
“Thanks to outgoing Deputy Mayor, Councillor Liz Seckold for her unwavering support during my time as Mayor.”
Councillor Griff takes over the role of Deputy Mayor from Councillor Seckold.
“I’m thrilled to be in the position of Deputy Mayor. The role has a lot of potential to support the Mayor in spreading the message about the positive achievements of Council through these very tough times,” Cr Griff said.
“My focus over the coming year will build on my work in protecting our precious environment and confronting our affordable housing challenges.”
Council CEO, Anthony McMahon congratulated the Mayor and Deputy Mayor on their appointments.
“I’d like to congratulate Councillor Fitzpatrick on his re-election as Mayor and Councillor Griff on her election as Deputy Mayor,” Mr McMahon said.
The term of office for Mayor Fitzpatrick will automatically expire on 14 September 2024, when his term as a Councillor expires.
“Next year the Bega Valley Shire will have a popularly elected Mayor, where they will have their own ballot paper,” said Mr McMahon.
“The Mayor elected to the position this way will serve a four-year term instead of two.”
