Mr Hyde said he was proud of what the council had achieved, citing stronger finances, a more united organisation and a move beyond municipal monitoring, while continuing to deliver for the community. He said five years was a significant chapter and he felt ready for a new challenge. He also said he had built an executive team with the capability and confidence to guide the organisation through change, including a transition such as this.

Mr Hyde has worked in local government for more than 30 years. In a personal statement, he noted that his departure is “not goodbye just yet”, with plenty of work to do in the meantime.

Wodonga Mayor Cr Michael Gobel thanked Mr Hyde for his leadership, saying he had helped steer the council through a demanding period. Cr Gobel said the work to strengthen the council’s financial sustainability had required persistence and tough decisions, and that it had put the council on firmer ground.

Cr Gobel said the next leader would need to build on those foundations, working with councillors and staff to advance Wodonga’s growth aspirations and deliver the services and infrastructure the community needs.

Recruitment and transition details will be shared as plans are confirmed.