Nathan Tolliday resigns as a councillor

It ends almost a year on council for Cr Tolliday, who was the youngest ever councillor elected to Benalla Rural City Council at the age of 22 at the local government election in October last year.

Cr Tolliday’s resignation came as he had accepted a role as an electorate officer for state Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland — a position that, under the Local Government Act 2020, disqualifies him from being a councillor.

In breaking the news to his fellow councillors, Cr Tolliday said serving as a councillor had been “one of the greatest honours of my life”.

“Being elected as the youngest ever councillor in Benalla Rural City has been both a privilege and a responsibility that I have taken with immense pride,” he said.

“It’s provided me with a valuable insight into governance, community leadership and the workings of local government, and has deepened my commitment to public service.”

Cr Tolliday said although his term had been short — one year of the four years he was elected for — he had valued the opportunity to represent the community and contribute to projects and initiatives that supported the social and economic wellbeing of Benalla and its residents.

“Working alongside my fellow councillors, council officers and members of the community has been an inspiring experience and has strengthened my belief in the power of collaboration and civic engagement,” he said.

Cr Holliday, who was sworn in as a councillor in November last year, said while it was difficult to step away from his role as councillor, his appointment as an electorate officer represented “a continuation of my commitment to public service”.

“The new role will allow me to embed myself my deeply in a political sphere and continue advocating for the people of our region, albeit in a different capacity,” he said.

“I see it as an opportunity to build on what I have learned in local government and to contribute more broadly to the policies and initiatives that shape the future of rural and regional Victoria.”

Mayor Bernie Hearn thanked Cr Tolliday for his service, acknowledging his commitment, energy and positive contribution to the council.

“Cr Tolliday has been an enthusiastic and dedicated councillor who has made a meaningful impact during his time on council,” Cr Hearn said.

“He played a key role in passing the council budget, shaping the council plan, and advancing a range of major projects that will benefit our community for years to come.

“His passion for Benalla Rural City and his thoughtful approach to decision-making have been greatly valued.

“While we are sad to see Nathan go, we wish him every success in his new role and look forward to seeing him continue to serve our region in another capacity.”

Council will now work with the Victorian Electoral Commission regarding the process to fill the vacancy.