Mayor and Deputy Mayor elected

Chirnside Ward Councillor, Cr Richard Higgins, has been re-elected as Mayor of Yarra Ranges, with Streeton Ward Councillor, Cr Jeff Marriott, elected as Deputy Mayor.

On Tuesday, 11 November, councillors elected Cr Higgins and Cr Marriott to serve as leaders and representatives of Council for the next 12 months.

Cr Higgins said that it was a privilege to continue serving as Mayor on behalf of the Yarra Ranges community.

"It's a great honour to be entrusted with a second term as Mayor," Cr Higgins said.

"I'm extremely proud of what we've achieved together over the last 12 months, including the opening of the Warburton Bike Park and ngurrak barring walking trail, creating more opportunities for recreation, tourism and cultural connection.

"We've also delivered major infrastructure and stormwater works, new and upgraded playspaces, accessibility improvements and investment in our roads and footpaths. We've developed plans to guide the future of our communities, and our focus now is on continuing to turn those plans into action.

"I'd like to thank my fellow Councillors for their confidence in re-electing me, and outgoing Deputy Mayor and Chandler Ward Councillor Gareth Ward, for his care, commitment and service to the Yarra Ranges community over the past year."

"I'm looking forward to working closer with Cr Marriott over the coming year as we represent our nine wards and advocate for the needs and priorities of the Yarra Ranges community."

Cr Marriott said he was looking forward to supporting the Mayor and working collaboratively with Councillors, Council staff and the community.

"A central part of my role will be working alongside our Mayor and supporting him as we navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead," Cr Marriott said.

"I'll approach the role with a strong sense of responsibility and commitment to our community.

"Whether we're advocating for our communities, helping shape Council's future direction or meeting with residents, I want our leadership to be accessible, collaborative and focused on delivering for the Yarra Ranges."

This will be Cr Higgins' third term as Mayor, having previously served as Mayor during the COVID-19 pandemic and over the past year.

Cr Higgins and Cr Marriott will serve as Mayor and Deputy Mayor until November 2027, when the next Mayoral Election will be held.