Cessnock City Council has elected Councillor Jay Suvaal to the position of Deputy Mayor at the latest meeting of Council replacing Councillor Darrin Gray.
Cessnock City Mayor, Cr Bob Pynsent recognised Councillor Gray for his dedication to the role over the last year.
"Cr Gray is dedicated to his community and has served them diligently attending events, listening to residents and advocating for them. Congratulations to Darrin on a job well done. I would also like to extend my congratulations to Cr Suvaal."
Cr Suvaal said he is looking forward to serving as Deputy Mayor.
"I'm passionate about this area and its people. We must continue to make our town an even better place to live, work and raise a family. I want to see the creation of more local jobs, better roads and services," Cr Suvaal said.
Cr Suvaal is a local through and through. He was born in Cessnock Hospital, grew up in Kearsley, attended the local primary school, and Mt View High School. He now lives in Cessnock with his wife Emily and their sons Ethan and Caleb.