The Courier understands incumbent councillor Samantha McIntosh and former mayor Mark Harris have thrown their hats into the ring to be the city’s next mayor. 

Cr McIntosh has been a councillor for more than eight years and has been elected for her third consecutive term as a central ward councillor.

Newly elected Ballarat doctor Mark Harris, who was mayor from 2011 to 2012, told The Courier on Friday he decided to nominate himself because he felt he had the experience to steer the city in the right direction.  

“Ballarat hasn’t done as well it should and it needs a coherent narrative going forward to ensure it can effectively lobby each level of government for the best outcomes for the city,” he said.

It is firmly believed by council insiders Cr McIntosh has the overwhelming support of councillors including north ward councillor elect Grant Tillett and south ward councillor elects Ben Taylor and Jim Rinaldi to get her over the line.

However, it is believed Dr Harris has the support of former mayor Des Hudson and former deputy mayor Belinda Coates.  

The Courier understands incumbent north ward councillor Amy Johnson is putting up her hand to be deputy mayor. 

First time councillor Daniel Moloney said he would not be putting his hand up for either of the roles.

“I’m strongly of the belief that it needs to be somebody with some experience and the demonstrated ability to start delivering on some of those key outstanding projects,” he said.

“The city needs continuity, it needs somebody who understands the processes is committed to getting things down.”

Mr Moloney said he had not yet decided which way he would vote.

“I’m still waiting to have those conversations with the chief executive and councillors,” he said.  

Nominations for the positions of mayor and deputy mayor close at 5pm today. 

More to come.