Upon being elected unopposed at the Benalla Rural City Council meeting on Wednesday, November 16 Cr Hearn addressed the room.
“I would like to personally thank my fellow councillors for placing their trust in me again to represent them, the council, and importantly the Benalla community in this important role as mayor of the Benalla Rural City,” Cr Hearn said.
Cr Hearn spoke with optimism of the resilience shown by the Benalla and district community throughout the pandemic and now in recovery from the October flood event.
“Our communities are the key to our success and the future of our Benalla Rural City,” Cr Hearn said.
“Over the next 12 months I, with my fellow councillors, will work tirelessly for the Benalla community, championing development and growth for our town as (we) plan forward to support local business and provide more opportunities for business development and entrepreneurship.
“I would like to thank my family Russell, Nick, Brad and Emma for their support, encouragement and love they give.
“A very special thanks to councillor Don Firth for his support, friendship and guidance he has given me over the last 12 months.
“I take this opportunity on with good faith, goodwill and a fierce determination to ensure that we work in the best interests of all residents.”
Councillor Justin King, who was elected as deputy mayor, said it had been a privilege to work alongside Cr Hearn during the past 12 months as the council navigated challenging times.
“I look forward to being your deputy for the next 12 months,” Cr King said.
Benalla Rural City Council meetings are live-streamed at Benalla.vic.gov.au/live and can be watched live or on-demand.
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