Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Elected for 2025/26

Published on 07 November 2025

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Southern Grampians Shire Council elected Cr Dennis Heslin unopposed as Mayor for 2025/26 at the 5 November Statutory Meeting. 

Cr Heslin said it was an honour to once again represent the Southern Grampians community.

“To be elected the first time was an extraordinary honour; to be re-elected by my fellow Councillors is a real vote of confidence in the direction we’re heading,” Mayor Heslin said.

“The past year has been both a challenge and a privilege. With experience now on my side and a strong team around me, I’m confident we can make this an incredibly productive and rewarding year for our community.”

“We have another big year ahead with a focus on our three major projects, aimed at improving the liveability of the region and strengthening its future for generations to come.

Council was pleased to elect Councillor Helen Henry to the position of Deputy Mayor.

“Cr Henry and I are committed to working collaboratively and supporting each other throughout our 12-month term.

“As a Council, we’ve grown together in experience and capability, and I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to continue leading such a dedicated team.” said Cr Heslin.

Councillors were appointed as representatives of Council for the following committees: 

  • Audit & Risk Committee: Cr Henry, Cr Barber
  • Planning Committee: Cr Manning, Cr Heslin
  • CEO Employment & Remuneration Committee: Cr Heslin, Cr Barber, Cr Henry
  • Hamilton CBVD Revitalisation Advisory Group: Cr Barber
  • MAV: Cr Campbell, Cr Heslin (Proxy)
  • Southwest Victoria Alliance: Cr Heslin
  • Rural Councils Victoria: Cr Manning, Cr Henry (Proxy)
  • Green Triangle Action Group: Cr Rainsford
  • Rail Freight Alliance: Cr Rainsford
  • Ansett Museum Board: Cr Barber, Cr Campbell (Proxy)
  • Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group: Cr Manning, Cr Henry  

Council also made the decision to move monthly meetings from the second Wednesday of the month to the second Tuesday of the month. This change will come into effect from the first meeting of 2026 which will take place on Tuesday 10 February 2026.

Council determined the upcoming schedule of meetings for 2026 which will be made available shortly via the Council website.

 

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