The Murray River Group of Councils (MRGC) is pleased to announce Swan Hill Rural City Council's Mayor, Cr Stuart King as its Chairperson for 2026.
The appointment was confirmed at the Group's meeting held in Kerang on Monday, 8 December, hosted at the impressive new Glasshouse venue. Outgoing Chair and Loddon Shire Mayor, Cr Dan Straub formally handed over leadership after a strong year of collaboration and advocacy.
Cr Straub reflected on the Group's achievements throughout 2025, highlighting its united advocacy to Federal and State Ministers on the ongoing impacts of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan, and the need for improved delivery in partnership with local communities.
"It has been a great pleasure to lead this Group in 2025. The MRGC is a respected partner in the region, and we are proud to have built a reputation as a genuine stakeholder and reliable collaborator," Cr Straub said.
Cr King thanked Cr Straub on behalf of all the Mayors and CEOs, for his dedicated leadership and significant contribution throughout the year.
"Dan has worked tirelessly to ensure the voice of northern Victoria is heard. I look forward to building on this work, particularly as we continue our focus on water policy and the issues that matter most to our communities in the lead-up to the Victorian State Election," Cr King said.
The impending Basin Plan Review and the recent announcement of additional water purchase in the southern Basin were topics of discussion. The Group reaffirmed its commitment to strong, coordinated advocacy on water reform at this critical time.
Local Government funding pressures, and regional development opportunities were also key issues raised in discussions with Regional Development and Local Government Ministers at both State and Federal level.
The Group further acknowledged the success of its motions at the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) National General Assembly, which reinforced key priorities for northern Victoria, on the national stage.
The MRGC comprises Moira, Campaspe, Loddon, Gannawarra, Swan Hill and Mildura Councils and has been working collaboratively since 2007 on the issues that affect northern Victoria.
