There has been a changing of the guard of sorts in Tamworth Regional Council after a three-way tussle for deputy mayor saw a fresh face elected to lead alongside mayor Col Murray.
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As expected, Cr Murray was returned to the top job unopposed and will serve a two-year term following changes to the Local Government Act.
However, the ballot for deputy mayor was hotly contested, with Helen Tickle emerging victorious over Mark Rodda and incumbent Russell Webb.
Cr Rodda was eliminated after the first round after securing just one vote, leaving Crs Tickle and Webb tied on four votes.
Cr Tickle edged out former deputy Cr Webb five votes to four in the final count.
In the lead up to Tamworth Regional Council’s first meeting following the September 10 election, speculation had circled the leadership roles on the council.
No challengers for Col Murray’s post as mayor emerged following the election, despite a suggestion deputy Russell Webb was looking for a promotion.
Following changes to the Local Government Act, the council’s mayor will now serve a two-year term.
First elected in 2004, following the five-way amalgamation, Col Murray has served as TRC mayor for six consecutive years.
Two weeks ago, Cr Webb said he wouldn’t be running for mayor at this ballot, but would seek a return as deputy.
However, the incumbent was aware of three councillors waiting in the wings to mount a contest for deputy mayor.
Returning councillor, Mark Rodda was buoyed with confidence after he obtained the biggest number of first-preference votes in the field of 19 candidates, just ahead of Cr Webb.
Third-term councillor Helen Tickle was coy about her intention to put her hand about for the deputy role, saying the thought had crossed her mind but wouldn’t confirm her nomination.
One of TRC’s trio of new faces, and former Manilla mayor, Jim Maxwell, was also considering a tilt at the deputy’s role saying he had the time and passion to devote to the job, but didn’t contest the job on the night.