Cr Claridge elected mayor

Published on 17 November 2023

In a unanimous decision at the November Council Meeting, Cr Danny Claridge has been elected as the Mayor of Benalla Rural City Council for a 12-month term. The respected Councillor secured the mayoral position unopposed, reflecting a vote of confidence from his peers.

Expressing his gratitude and enthusiasm for the role, Mayor Cr Danny Claridge said: "I’m honoured and humbled to be elected to serve as Mayor. 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 said.  

Mayor Claridge took a moment to extend his appreciation to the outgoing Mayor, Cr Bernie Hearn, 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. 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.”

Councillor Justin King who was re-elected as Deputy Mayor, thanked the Council and said he looks 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. 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 Councillor’s and for the community to continue to do great things for the rest of this Council term.

Concluding his remarks, Mayor Claridge expressed his gratitude once again, saying, "Thank you again for placing your trust in me to be the mayor for the next year. I am committed to working collaboratively with my fellow Councillors and the community to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead."