Cr Ryan received the strong backing of councillors to replace James Purcell who did not recontest the job on Thursday morning.

Cr Jim Doukas made an unsuccessful tilt at the top job after gaining just one vote - from himself.

"Six years as a councillor, I believe I've got the qualifications to carry out the role," Cr Ryan told The Standard.

The Woolsthorpe-based councillor retired from Victoria Police in December last year and has served since as deputy mayor.

"I've retired after 36 years in the force which allows me more time," he said.

He listed his main priorities as child care placements in Port Fairy, a shire-wide rural housing plan and a strategic plan for Koroit.

He pledged to work closer with other south-west councils on finding a solution for a regional saleyards and gas exploration.

"It is my intention to develop those relationships during my term," he said.

"Coal seam gas exploration is something that will become very relevant in the future."

Regular issues such as protecting East Beach from erosion and securing road funding also gained a mention in Cr Ryan's speech.

"East Beach is one of our greatest natural assets and we must work in that area,"he said.

Outgoing mayor James Purcell, who is seeking an upper house seat at the state election, thanked council.

He listed his term's achievements as the new Koroit kindergarten and the Port Fairy streetscape works.

"I think it will be something council will be proud of for a long time," Cr Purcell said.

"For me it's been a great year and I've enjoyed it thoroughly."

Mortlake councillor Jill Parker was elected deputy mayor.

s.mccomish@fairfaxmedia.com.au