However at last week’s meeting the position of Deputy Mayor was contested by outgoing Deputy Cr. James Wheelwright and Cr. Malcolm Barlow.

Cr. Wheelwright was returned in a secret ballot.

Cr. Shaw said it was a “great honour” to be the Mayor of such a great area as Upper Lachlan – “I’ll throw everything into it as I have in the past.”

Cr. Shaw added that he had enjoyed a good relationship with other Councillors – “and I can see no reason why that will not continue.”

Cr. Wheelwright thanked Councillors for their vote of confidence.

“Having a Mayor like John makes this job exceptionally easy,” he added.

Present in the gallery at the meeting were former Councillors Sandra Bill and Mike Coley.

Cr. Shaw presented both with a Certificate of Appreciation for their service while Councillors – both for Upper Lachlan and for Crookwell and Gunning Shires prior to the amalgamation.

Former Councillor Mick Mayoh, who was not present, will also receive a Certificate.