MAYOR Dean Rees has given a heartfelt speech at the last session of the existing council thanking all who supported him during his tenure.

He spent the last two terms on council with the last six consecutive years as mayor and he used his platform to talk about the trials and tribulations of council.

"It has come time to say goodbye and good luck to the Rural City of Wangaratta, maybe for some of you out there about me good riddance," he quipped.

"I have truly loved and respected my role here, it has taught me a great deal about people, it has opened my eyes to some of the limitations that local government has while also highlighting the remarkable things that are achievable."

Cr Rees spoke of a disconnection between the state and federal governments and local councils.

"I have always found it challenging to accept authority from the state and federal governments because I believe they don't fully understand our small communities and how they like to operate," he said.

"The legislation crafted in Spring Street often feels disconnected from the realities of regional life and our needs are different from those in the big city.

"I'm a firm believer that regional communities and local government are the heartbeat of Victoria and councillors serve the voice of you, the people, and it's crucial we continue to have their representation on local matters."

With this Cr Rees said he was concerned about the future of local government especially with the increase in cost shifting from the state and the rising costs of running these organisations.

He noted that administration of these excessive programs and policies are unsustainable and would be such in the private sector - it poses a real financial risk.

"Our core responsibilities are to improve the quality of life in our community, council exists to serve the people and needs at the forefront of everything we do," he said.

"While we generally do this well, change and respect are always necessary.

"In a democracy we must listen to the majority, while also respecting the minority, and the minority need to respect the majority."

Cr Rees paid tribute to the people he has worked with and described it as "a privilege to work with incredible individuals".

He thanks a long list of colleagues, politicians Helen Haines, Tim McCurdy and Jaclyn Symes, and people in the community who have supported him during his tenure.

Cr Rees spoke about council's achievements in the last four years, improving the town's aesthetics, infrastructure, community cohesion and economic development.

In his last annual report Cr Rees highlighted the "transformative projects" that have capped off a successful tenure in the top job.

In 2023-24 the Rural City of Wangaratta made use of funding to build the $12.9 million sports and aquatic centre, and the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub.

He said these projects have not only bolstered the community’s infrastructure but also stimulated tourism and economic vitality.

"The Ned Kelly Discovery Hub has quickly become a cornerstone of Glenrowan, drawing over 51,000 visitors since opening in September and earning recognition as the Best Regional/Rural Industry Contribution at the Parks and Leisure Australia Regional Awards of Excellence, affirming its value as a regional asset.

"The Hub serves as an educational space for local heritage and a front door for visitors to our region.

"Incorporating the Visitor Information Centre has seen a 100 per cent increase in demand for visitor servicing, significantly boosting tourism.

"Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Wangaratta Sports & Aquatic Centre recently received an industry award for the Best Medium Sized Aquatics and Recreation Facility - highlighting its remarkable growth and underscoring its pivotal role in community wellness."

Cr Rees said behind the scenes, council officers have partnered with North East Water to fortify urban expansion infrastructure, crucial for accommodating our growing population.

He said additionally, collaborations with ARTC on Glenrowan and Wangaratta stations have enhanced freight connectivity to Melbourne and the Eastern Seaboard, without financial burden on our community.

Cr Rees made note of council's adoption of its Affordable Housing Strategy aimed at increasing social, affordable and key worker housing.

"Initiatives like the redevelopment of the former Ovens College and the Garnet Ave project mark the beginning of this endeavour, with more to come as we implement the strategy’s recommendations," he said.