Lorna Buchan to become next mayor of Rockingham, with new councillors Dylan Mbano and Ryan Robertson

It was out with the old and in with the new in Rockingham on Saturday night, with voters backing deputy mayor Lorna Buchan to take over the top job from incumbent Deb Hamblin.

More than 26,000 people voted in the election, with Ms Buchan declared the winner after securing the most first preference votes (10,054) and then holding on as other candidates’ preferences were taken into account.

Ms Hamblin, who had 7554 first preference votes, was the last eliminated in the count, which also featured current councillors Mark Jones and Mike Crichton.

“I am deeply honoured and humbled by the trust you’ve placed in me,” Ms Buchan said on Monday.

“This result shows our community has voted for positive change and new leadership that listens, works collaboratively and is focused on the future of our city.

“And whether you voted for me or not, I want you to know that I will be a mayor that works for all of Rockingham.”

It was Ms Buchan’s second tilt at the role after she was previously beaten by Ms Hamblin.

Ms Hamblin was Rockingham’s first popularly elected mayor in 2021 and the first woman to hold the title and role, after carving out multiple terms as a deputy mayor and councillor.

Ms Buchan acknowledged her predecessor on Monday.

“Deb has dedicated 20 years of service on council. This is an extraordinary contribution that deserves recognition and respect,” she wrote.

“I also want to thank my fellow councillors, Mark Jones and Mike Crichton, for their commitment to public service and for being part of this democratic process. Campaigns are never easy and standing for election takes courage and conviction.”

Ms Buchan is a forensic auditor at the office of the Auditor General of WA and has previously worked as an accountant.

During her time on council, she had been a voice against higher rate increases and irresponsible spending.

On Sunday, Ms Hamblin pledged to continue her commitment to the community.

“The votes are in and whilst I won’t be continuing as mayor, I’m still going to be supporting our City of Rockingham as I have done for decades,” she wrote.

“It’s been an incredible privilege to serve our community and to meet so many passionate, caring people along the way.

“I’ll always care deeply about this place and the people who make it home.

“This may be the end of one chapter, but the story continues — and I’ll still be here for our city as I have always been committed to our community, the place we all live.”

Other changes in the council chamber include former State Liberal candidate Dylan Mbano, who replaces Brett Wormall as Baldivis ward councillor.

In Safety Bay, Ryan Robertson (3188 first votes) will join the council, alongside re-elected councillors Leigh Liley (2416 votes) and Dawn Jecks (2624 votes).

Ex-councillor Caroline Hume just missed out with 2309 first votes.

In Comet Bay ward, councillor Robert Schmidt was comfortably returned with 2457 votes.