The Greater Bendigo City Council has elected Cr Thomas Prince as Mayor and Cr Karen Corr as Deputy Mayor for 2025-2026, marking the beginning of a new chapter in local leadership.
The appointments were confirmed at a Council meeting held tonight at Bendigo Town Hall.
Mayor Cr Prince said he was honoured to be chosen by his fellow Councillors and is ready to lead with both head and heart.
"I'm grateful for the trust placed in me and excited to work with a unified Council that puts community first," Cr Prince said.
"I believe in being approachable, practical and personal. Building strong relationships - whether with residents, community groups, or other levels of government - is central to how I lead."
As Mayor, Cr Prince has outlined a clear and community-focused vision for his term.
He is committed to strengthening trust in Council through greater transparency and meaningful engagement, ensuring residents feel heard and involved in local decision-making.
Improving housing and liveability across Greater Bendigo is a key focus, with plans to support diverse housing options and thoughtful growth that meets the needs of all residents.
Cr Prince also aims to ease cost of living pressures and strengthen economic resilience by backing local businesses and promoting fair access to essential services.
He will also champion safe and connected communities, investing in infrastructure and social initiatives that bring people together and enhance everyday life.
"I'll continue to attend community meetings, school visits and local events - these connections are the most rewarding part of the role. I'm committed to listening, learning and delivering outcomes that reflect the needs of our residents," he said.
"It's a privilege to serve as Mayor, and I'm energised by the opportunity to help shape a sustainable and flourishing future for Greater Bendigo."
Deputy Mayor Cr Karen Corr said she was proud to take on the role and will bring her three decades of leadership experience to the position.
Cr Corr brings a deep commitment to community and a clear set of priorities to guide her work.
Her vision is for individual suburbs and towns to thrive as vibrant local hubs, and for the City as a whole to be healthy, sustainable and inclusive.
She is passionate about advocating for diverse housing solutions that meet the needs of all residents, whilst maintaining the heritage and unique character of our city.
Improving how people move around Greater Bendigo is also a key focus, with Cr Corr supporting better transport connections and safer roads to cater for all modes of travel.
Collaboration is at the heart of her approach. She is dedicated to strengthening partnerships across community groups, sectors and levels of government to deliver meaningful outcomes for residents, businesses and the region.
Above all, Cr Corr is committed to being present and engaged in the community - listening with empathy, acting with integrity, and building trust through genuine connection.
"Advocacy is key - we must speak up, stand together, and ensure our region's priorities are heard. I'm committed to being a visible and active Deputy Mayor, focused on collaboration and positive change."
With a shared commitment to community, transparency and meaningful outcomes, Cr Prince and Cr Corr are ready to lead Greater Bendigo into its next chapter.
Council also extends its sincere thanks to outgoing Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf for her dedication and service over the past year.
Cr Metcalf's unwavering commitment to the community, thoughtful leadership and genuine care for the people of Greater Bendigo have left a lasting impact.
Her warmth, integrity and steady presence have helped guide Council through important decisions and strengthened connections across the region.
