The member for Euroa was on Monday returned to the job via a unanimous party room vote in Melbourne.

At the same gathering, Peter Walsh was elected again as Nationals leader, also unanimously and without a challenger.

Ms Ryan said she was “once again honoured” to be part of the leadership team.

Mr Walsh lauded Ms Ryan’s performance at the recent election in congratulating her on being returned as his deputy.

“Steph’s dedication and hard work over the past four years, both as a first term MP and as deputy leader, is reflected in the increased support from her community and the ongoing support from her parliamentary colleagues,” Mr Walsh said.

Nationals member for Ovens Valley Tim McCurdy, who survived a challenge by independent Tammy Atkins at last month’s election, was at the party room meeting.

Meanwhile, the fate of the seat of Benambra and its Liberal Party incumbent Bill Tilley should crystalise on Tuesday when preferences are distributed.

Returning officer Trevor Deacon said it was unclear whether that process would be finished on Tuesday or run into Wednesday.

Mr Tilley is being challenged by Labor candidate Mark Tait and independents Jacqui Hawkins and Jenny O’Connor, whose shares of the vote are 18 per cent, 16 per cent and 13 per cent respectively.