Cr Claridge secured the mayoral position unopposed.
“I’m honoured and humbled to be elected to serve as mayor,” he said.
“I’d like to thank my fellow councillors for giving me the opportunity to lead through our final year.
“It’s a privilege I don’t take lightly, and I’m eager to contribute to the continued progress and prosperity of our community.”
Cr Claridge thanked the outgoing mayor for her exceptional service over the past two years.
“I’d like to thank the outgoing mayor, Cr Bernie Hearn, for the amazing job she has done,” he said.
“She has worked tirelessly to lead us through the challenging post-COVID period and has been dedicated to engaging with the community through her numerous attendances at functions and events.”
Cr Justin King, who was re-elected as deputy mayor, thanked council and said he looked forward to working alongside Cr Claridge.
“I’d like to thank the council for their trust in me to be their deputy for the next 12 months,” he said.
“It’s an absolute honour, I take the role very seriously and I look forward to supporting the mayor as much as he needs, but also to be there for the councillors and for the community to continue to do great things for the rest of this council term.”
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