Noorat dairy and beef farmer Geraldine Conheady has been elected to represent Corangamite Shire's Central Ward.
Councillor-elect Conheady will fill the seat left vacant by the passing of Cr Wayne Oakes.
She received 1865 votes, or 38.44%, ahead of Michael Emerson (1189), Catherine O'Flynn (957), Lance Robilliard (699) and John Glazebrook (142).
Mayor Neil Trotter congratulated Cr-elect Conheady and welcomed her to the team.
"It's always refreshing and encouraging to see somebody passionate about their local community seek out the responsibility of representing our fellow Shire residents on Council," Cr Trotter said.
"Geraldine has a history of contributing to her local community through various projects, events, sporting clubs and school boards. Her background in farming means she understands the issues facing the agriculture industry which is one of the main pillars of the Shire economy.
"Being a Councillor is a challenging job—often with robust debate—but we have a good culture of working together for the residents and look forward to the fresh perspective and ideas Geraldine will bring.
"Election is the start of a steep learning curve, but it's very rewarding to help build a secure future for the Shire."
Cr-elect Conheady said she was motivated to help the community.
"I felt I had good support and that the community was behind me.
"It's really exciting and I am very much aware that I've got a lot to learn.
"I care about what happens in Corangamite Shire. I'm ready to contribute and provide balanced representation"
Cr-elect Conheady is scheduled to take the oath of office at 4:30 pm tomorrow (Tuesday 7 July).
The next general elections will be held on 24 October.
