Long time Warrandyte resident, school teacher and mother of 3, Councillor Carli Lange was elected as the new Mayor of Manningham, after serving as Mayor in 2023/24.
Councillor Andrew Conlon was also elected to the role of Deputy Mayor. The pair were unanimously elected to the positions by their peers at last night’s Annual Meeting of Council.
In the Mayor’s acceptance speech, the Yarra Ward Councillor said it was a great privilege to serve the Manningham community once again.
“I stand before you feeling honoured, humbled and grateful to be elected Mayor for 2026/27. Being Mayor isn’t about a title, it’s about leadership, relationship, respect and above all, service,” Cr Lange said.
“I have always believed that strong communities are built on strong relationships, and strong relationships are built on trust,” Cr Lange said.
Cr Lange outlined her priorities for the year ahead, affirming her commitment to genuine community engagement, transparent decision making, and building bridges – not barriers -with the community.
“Our community has been clear about what matters most: value for money, safe and well-maintained neighbourhoods, quality facilities and services, a thriving local economy, and protecting Manningham’s environment and unique character,” Cr Lange said.
The Mayor took time during the meeting to highlight the positive traits from each member of the elected Council, noting they each bring different strengths, perspectives and priorities, to the chamber – stressing the importance of being united in leadership for the benefit of the community.
“I don’t seek to be a mayor who leads 9 councillors. I seek to be a Mayor who brings 9 councillors together to lead. When one of us achieves a positive outcome for our ward, all of Manningham benefits,” Cr Lange said.
“Good governance requires robust discussions, different perspectives, and the courage to make difficult decisions”.
“Our commitment is to lead with integrity, listen with empathy, advocate with determination and serve with humility. I want a Council that is united in respect, a community connected in trust and an organisation that is committed to excellence and accountability,” Cr Lange said.
Cr Lange also noted her ongoing commitment to advocating for the issues that matter most to the Manningham community including securing investment in Aquarena and essential transport infrastructure, addressing North East Link impacts, and supporting local families, businesses and environmental protection.
Manningham Council’s Chief Executive Officer Andrew Day extended his congratulations to the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor on their election, on behalf of the organisation. The CEO and Councillors also thanked outgoing Mayor, Cr Grivas for his leadership and service during the past year.
Cr Jim Grivas thanked fellow Councillors and Manningham Council staff for their support over his term. He also paid tribute to the Manningham community.
“I’d like to specifically thank our community for talking to us and challenging us to ensure that we do our best and deliver for our city,” Cr Grivas said.
Find your local Manningham Councillors or watch the Annual Meeting of Council.
