As a lifetime resident of Port Stephens, it was with a sense of pride and excitement, mixed with some natural nerves, that I strode through the front doors at Raymond Terrace on Monday morning.

The support I received from the people of Port Stephens in the weeks and months leading up to Monday was –  quite sincerely –  a humbling experience.

But it also gave me confidence that the things I feel strongly about, and campaigned on, have struck a chord with the community.

The success I’ve had to this point in my life has come through more than hard work.

I’ve always found that working closely with others and building strong relationships brings results.

That’s the attitude I brought when I walked through those doors and which will guide my approach for the next three years in the job.

As Mayor, I know it’s not possible to please everybody, but from the outset, I will strive to develop robust working relationships with all my fellow councillors.

Without that, I know the task of governing will be so much harder.

Thankfully, everything I’ve seen and heard from the new council has been positive, generous and committed.

I’m genuinely excited about what we can achieve.

Equally my relationship with the staff at council is key.

I’ve been fortunate enough to have worked with a number of them in my previous roles and I’ve been impressed with what I’ve seen.

General Manager Wayne Wallis and I have enjoyed a great working relationship and I expect this will only strengthen over time.

At the end of the day, of course, it is the community that we serve and it is the people of Port Stephens that I feel particularly strongly about.

During this early period in my first term as mayor, my key priority is to get out and meet as many business groups, community groups and individuals to ensure I understand your concerns and the things that you truly value.

If I do that well, we can begin this new chapter for Port Stephens with great confidence and create a future we are all proud of.

Mayor-elect Ryan Palmer will be sworn into office on Tuesday night.