Cr Bernard Gaffney to contest Indigo Shire mayoral election against Cr Jenny O'Connor

Cr Gaffney, who last served as mayor in 2015, confirmed he will be standing after a “very positive response” at the weekend to the possibility of returning to the position.

He was replaced as mayor by Cr James Trenery, who raised questions about Cr O’Connor standing for mayor again at the same time she was standing as an independent candidate for the seat of Benambra at the November 24 Victorian election.

Cr O’Connor has been mayor for the past two years.

Cr Gaffney made up his mind to stand against Cr O’Connor on Monday.

“There has been a very positive response from the community over the weekend to the possibility of me contesting the mayoral position again,” he said.

“I’ve been surprised at the amount of community support so nothing ventured, nothing gained.”

Asked about Cr O’Connor’s intentions to stand for re-election as mayor, Cr Gaffney said: “It’s none of my business.

“I’ve supported her in the past and we have a very good working relationship.”

Deputy mayor Sophie Price could also face a challenge from Cr Barb Murdoch.

Cr O’Connor has flagged “win, lose or draw” the mayoral election she will take leave of absence from council beginning on Wednesday to concentrate on the state election.

Meanwhile, five contenders have emerged for Greater Hume Shire’s east ward vacancy created by the resignation of Kim Stewart.

The candidates include Amy Lehmann, whose husband Tobias is among the three contenders to replace Greg Aplin as the member for Albury.

Mr and Mrs Lehmann moved from Sydney and established the West Walla Farm business brand.

The others shooting for Liberal Party preselection this weekend are vet Justin Clancy and former Albury mayor Alice Glachan.

Also in the race for the council vacancy are Glenellen’s Greg Mason, Holbrook’s Lea Parker, Culcairn’s Alam Dastani and Bruce Quick, who also lives in Holbrook, and contested the 2016 election.

The by-election will be held on November 24.