Current mayor Kylie Gaston announced at Monday night’s meeting she would not seek re-election for a third term at the helm when the position is decided later this month.

The 73^rd mayor will be chosen at the council’s annual meeting on October 30. 

Cr Peter Hulin said he was “absolutely” putting his hand up for the role. “We need a person with experience,” he said.

“Someone who knows the ropes and is confident with talking to politicians. We need someone who advocates for our city.” 

Cr Robert Anderson said a fellow councillor had asked him to put his hand up.

He said he was born and raised in Warrnambool and was “very passionate” about the city.

He said priority projects included the Reid Oval redevelopment, the city renewal, the library and the harbour.

Cr Mike Neoh didn’t confirm or deny if he would be in the running for mayor.

“All councillors will be having a discussion and we will resolve it when that discussion has been had,” he said.

Cr David Owen said he would not be putting himself up for the top job, and Cr Tony Herbert said he also wasn’t. “We need to get together as a group and see which one of us has the best skills to do the job,” Cr Herbert said. Cr Sue Cassidy, who runs a busy central business district hairdressing salon, said she was not putting herself forward.