Cr Helen Healy has vowed to "make every moment count" after she was elected Mildura Mayor for a second time at today's Annual Meeting of Council.
Cr Healy, who was first elected Mayor in 2024, replaces Cr Ali Cupper, who has stepped down from the role after serving a one-year term.
Cr Rebecca Crossling was elected Deputy Mayor for the first time.
Cr Healy said she was "especially proud to be an Ouyen born and bred Mayor" and would not take the honour lightly.
"Part of our role as leaders is to set the tone, a moral foundation based on respect, even love, acknowledging that everyone is valued when we do the work, show up, listen and act with care and curiosity," she said during her acceptance speech at today's meeting.
"Our region, our community, is feeling the economic pressure and that plays out in different ways, including distrust and discontent with government.
"As councillors we will revisit our values and continue working to further improve transparency, accountability and a better flow of information."
The new Mayor said the council would focus on "policy not politics" and ensuring the municipality was a safe and inclusive place for everyone.
She also said there would be a focus on advocacy to ensure a fair deal from both state and federal governments, and strategies that ensure financial and environmental sustainability and strong economic outcomes.
"Most importantly, our focus will be on people," she said.
"It is more important than ever to engage in respectful, courageous and curious debate, and if any member of the public has something they need to know or need us to know, come and talk with me face to face. My door is open."
Cr Healy thanked her fellow councillors for placing their faith in her to do the job.
"I will make every moment count," she said.
