Former mayor John Watson, who had been expected to contest the position, declined to run as his wife Christine continues to fight breast cancer.

“Christine would be happy for me to have stood but I don’t think for the stress and family dynamics and work dynamics (it would be right),” Cr Watson said after the meeting.

Cr Mildren was surprised to be nominated, saying it was purely a consequence of Cr Watson declining to run.

However, after being endorsed by councillors Libby Hall and Tim Quilty, he told the meeting he felt the community would want him to contest the mayoralty.

“The feedback and information that I’ve got from constituents in the municipal area in the past few days has been overpowering in the request for change,” Cr Mildren said.

“I think we need to be seen to be offering the opportunity for the alternative opinions to be heard.”

Councillor Kat Bennett said she backed Cr Speedie because she polled the highest tally at last month’s election and she had knowledge and experience.

Cr Speedie won the mayoralty 4-3 with her own support and backing from Cr Bennett, Cr Watson and councillor Danny Lowe.

In six out of seven elections since the council formed in 1997 the top vote-getter has become the next mayor.

Cr Speedie has the $75,500 job for two years after councillors agreed to extend the traditional 12-month tenure.

She believes business will appreciate having the same mayor for two years and it will aid government ties.

Recently elected Albury mayor Kevin Mack has also been installed for two years.

Cr Speedie, who was first elected mayor 4-3 over Cr Watson last year, was not surprised to face a fight for the top post.

“We’ve had some really great discussions and really robust discussions already and I was very aware of John’s situation and very respectful of that,” Cr Speedie said.

In her mayoral acceptance speech to the council, Cr Speedie pointed to economic growth in the city, including the investment of timber mill XLam.

“I look forward to working with all new councillors, watching them grow and learn even more about their community on this exceptional journey,” Cr Speedie said.

“I look forward to using my 11 years of experience and relationships with government and the private sector to the betterment of this city.”

Cr Watson said he planned to run for mayor in the future.

The council declined to elect a deputy mayor.