Rural City of Wangaratta Mayoral Election Result 2025

Published on 26 November 2025

2025 Mayoral Election.png

Last night the Rural City of Wangaratta held a scheduled Council Meeting during which the Mayor and Deputy Mayor were elected.

Councillor Irene Grant has been re-elected as Mayor for the term of 1 year and Councillor Harvey Benton has been re-elected to serve as Deputy Mayor.

The position of Mayor and Deputy Mayor was contested, with Councillor Fuller being nominated for both roles.

Mayor Irene Grant said:
“Being the Mayor in a municipality like the Rural City of Wangaratta is both a challenging and rewarding role. As we move into a year of significant change, it's important that we keep a strong focus on good governance and the work of local government. I'm honoured to be given this role.

I thank the Councillors for their support, and I would also like to acknowledge the support and positive feedback I've received from the community and, of course, my family and friends.”

Councillor Irene Grant was first elected to Council in 2002 and was re-elected to the Warby Ward in 2024. She served as Mayor for three terms from 2002 – 2004 and as Administrator from 2013 – 2016. Irene was elected to Mayor again in 2024 and was awarded the 10-year service award, and Mayor Emeritus Award at the Municipal Association of Victoria’s recent service awards.

Councillor Harvey Benton was elected to Council in 2016 and was re-elected to the Ovens Ward in 2024. He served as a Councillor from 1981 - 1994 for the former Shire of Wangaratta. Cr. Benton served as the Deputy Mayor from 2023-2025. Harvey received an award for 20 years of service at the Municipal Association of Victoria, service awards in 2023.

During the Council meeting Stephen Swart was appointed Interim CEO effective 5 January 2026 with Brendan McGrath stepping down after 12 years in the role. Mr Swart will hold this role until a permanent CEO is appointed.

Currently Director of Sustainability & Culture, Mr Swart joined Council in 2018 and brings leadership experience in State and Local Government, with expertise in regional development, planning, communication, engagement, and the environment.

Councillor Portfolios

Tania Maxwell | Appin Ward

  • Economic Development and Tourism
  • Community Wellbeing, Youth, Family, and All Abilities
  • Sport and Recreation

Dave Fuller | Bullawah Ward

  • Arts and Culture
  • Planning
  • Sustainability
  • Environment & Sustainability Community Reference Group
  • Arts, Culture, Events and Heritage Advisory Committee

Harry Bussell | King River Ward

  • Economic development & Tourism
  • Business and Industry Community Reference Group

Harvey Benton | Ovens Ward

  • Sport and Recreation
  • Emergency Services
  • Agriculture
  • Planning

Ashlee Fitzpatrick | Wareena Ward

  • Community Engagement
  • Community Wellbeing, Youth, Family and All Abilities
  • Youth Council
  • Sport and Recreation

Allison Winters | Yarrunga Ward

  • Arts and Culture
  • Community Engagement
  • Arts, Culture, Events and Heritage Advisory Committee 

 

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