The retired police detective replaces Corangamite Shire mayor Chris O’Connor, who stepped down from the role earlier this week after two years. 

Cr Ryan was elected Moyne Shire mayor in November and is one of eight new board members to join the regional advocacy group this year. 

The group’s board is made up of 16 members including the mayors and chief executives of Corangamite, Moyne, Southern Grampians, Glenelg and Colac Otway shires and Warrnambool City Council. 

He said he was looking forward to working on the group’s projects and priorities, including the Beyond The Bell year 12 attainment project, and the Great South Coast transport strategy. 

“I’m looking forward to working collectively for the benefit of the region,” Cr Ryan said.

“There is great benefit in working together. There is strength in numbers.” 

Cr Ryan said the group was also keen to work with the new state government to ensure its pre-election commitments are met. 

“We will also remind Premier Andrews that he promised to govern for all Victorians, not just the regions that voted for Labor,” he said.