Neil Reilly was re-elected for his role as deputy mayor, defeating veteran councillor Warren Steel and independent Mark Way.

The voting method for deputy mayor was a preferential ballot, meaning no indication was given as to which way councillors voted.

Cr Petschler said he appreciated how councillors had worked together during the past 12 months.

‘‘The collaborative way that the council has worked is a credit to you all,’’ he said.

Cr Petschler served as the council’s general manager from 1987-2001.

He stood successfully for council in 2008, and was elected deputy mayor in 2011.