Cr Brian McCormack, who held the position for the past two years, said his decision not to stand for another term was due to work commitments and the drought. 

He thanked staff for their support throughout his term, and said he was leaving the council in a sound financial position. He will continue as a councillor.

Cr John Searl was voted in as Deputy Mayor.

Cr Stafford in his opening address said the ULSC faced a unique set of challenges, including pressure to support a massive road infrastructure, and financial pressure.

However, he was positive about the potential, he said. “We will have conflict with a limited budget. We have a unique opportunity in agriculture, urban development, culture... we have it all,” Cr Stafford said.

He said that in Collector there was opportunity because of its close proximity to the highway and Canberra; and Taralga was booming. In Gundaroo and Gunning, there was enormous opportunity after recent house sales reached $700,000, he said.

“We look after the different dynamics … and the outlying communities,” he said. “They are unique communities, and an equal part of the Shire.

“It’s been a difficult period, many things happening and four new councillors … Here at the table we have to work collectively and make it happen for us,” Cr Stafford said.

Cr Stafford was elected to the council in September 2016 as Deputy Mayor and re-elected in 2017. Cr Searl has been on the council for two consecutive terms, having first been elected in 2012.

“Cr Stafford and Cr Searl will no doubt be a strong leadership team who will bring fresh ideas and perspectives to their respective roles,” said ULSC general manager John Bell.

“I would also like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of outgoing Mayor Brian McCormack OAM, who held the position since September 2016.”