2023 Mayoral Election Result

Published on 29 November 2023

The Rural City of Wangaratta Council have re-elected Councillor Dean Rees as Mayor for the sixth consecutive term and Councillor Harvey Benton has been elected to serve as Deputy Mayor. Both positions were contested, with councillor Dave Fuller being nominated for Mayor and councillor Harry Bussell nominating for Deputy Mayor at the Council Meeting on Tuesday 28 November 2023.

“It is a great honour to be elected by my fellow Councillors and to continue as Mayor of the Rural City of Wangaratta. I thank them for their support and the support of the community,” said Councillor Dean Rees Mayor of the Rural City of Wangaratta.

"For the past five terms, Council has diligently and collaboratively worked towards the improvement of our municipality. I am delighted to carry this momentum forward as Mayor”.

“Our ongoing commitment to excellence and improvement of our municipality is evident in significant regional projects like the recently completed Ned Kelly Discovery Hub and the upgrade of the Wangaratta Sports and Aquatic Centre, which is nearing completion. Securing funding for other strategic initiatives, such as the Creative Precinct, remains a top priority, reflecting our dedication to enhancing the cultural and economic fabric of our community." Said Cr. Rees.

“I thank my fellow Councillors for their support and pledge to do my best for our community as Deputy Mayor. I consider myself privileged to contribute to our strong and stable Council.” said Deputy Mayor, Councillor Harvey Benton.

Cr. Benton was elected to Council in 2016. He served as a Councillor from 1981 - 1994 for the former Shire of Wangaratta. Cr. Benton received an award for 20 years of service at the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV), Councillor Service Awards in October.

Councillor Rees was first elected to Council in 2016 and elected as Mayor in November 2018.  Cr. Rees is now the longest serving Mayor at the Rural City of Wangaratta and we are lucky to have his expertise and dedication leading our community decisions again for the coming 12 months.