Ward D Labor councillor Darrin Gray has been elected as Cessnock's deputy mayor.
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Cessnock City councillors vote for a deputy mayor every 12 months.
The vote took place in an open ballot at Wednesday night's council meeting, which Cr Gray won eight votes to four over independent councillor Ian Olsen.
A lifelong Kurri Kurri resident who was first voted onto council in 2016, Cr Gray said he is honoured to take on the position of deputy mayor.
"I have lived in the Cessnock local government area all my life, as have generations before me," he said.
"I feel both a sense of obligation and privilege to be able to contribute to our ongoing prosperity for future generations.
"I'm looking forward to the new role and the opportunity it brings to continue to advocate for our community."
Read more: Nine new faces on Cessnock City Council
Cr Gray replaces fellow Labor councillor Melanie Dagg, who held the position for the last two years.
Mayor Bob Pynsent acknowledged Cr Dagg for her "fantastic service" as deputy mayor.
"Cr Dagg has served her community proudly during her term and has represented me at various events doing an exceptional job," he said.
"Cr Dagg is extremely passionate advocate for our community and no doubt will continue this in her role as a councillor."
The next council election is due to be held in September 2021, after this year's elections were postponed by 12 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read more: Council elections postponed