In a brief ceremony at Town Hall, Maitland returning officer Kevin Short officially declared the results of the city’s council election, ushering in a new era with six new councillors among the 12 under the leadership of mayor Loretta Baker. 

Cr Baker briefly addressed the small crowd, saying it was “a great honour” to lead Maitland’s most diverse council. 

She was followed by former mayor Peter Blackmore who congratulated his successor, saying “she will make a great mayor”. 

Returning officer Mr Short said new blood on council would bring a new perspective, but that ultimately “the key to success on council is co-operation”. 

The next council meeting will be on September 26.