Councillor Maytom has served the shire for more than 30 years and, has also had two stints at being the town's mayor, including in current times since 2008.

Agree or disagree with decisions made or actions taken over the years, there's no doubting Cr Maytom's commitment to the shire and the wider region.

He has always been advocate for all residents, whether they've lived here all their lives, moved to town or even come to the shire as a migrant or refugee.

I myself moved to Leeton more than a decade ago as a young journalist straight out of university.

Attending council meetings and interviewing the mayor and councillors soon became a regular part of the job.

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I quickly realised Cr Maytom wasn't just in the top job for the glory.

He genuinely wanted to help.

Cr Maytom may not recall this, but I remember in my early days in Leeton when he spotted me in the supermarket, coming over to say hello and ask how I was settling in.

A small gesture, but one I haven't forgotten. This welcoming of new residents to town is something Cr Maytom has always done and says he will continue to do.

There's been plenty of praise and accolades for our mayor in recent weeks and months for many worthy reasons.

Cr Maytom says what he will miss most about being mayor is fighting for a fair go for everyone, but he says this is something he will be continuing to do, just in a different manner after he is officially "retired" from the role come the election this weekend.

While politics can be a fickle game, Cr Maytom should hold his head high knowing the Leeton shire community has benefited from his years at the helm.

They will be big shoes to fill, but everyone is looking forward to seeing what a new mayor can bring forth for the shire and how they can lead the community towards a bright future.

Thank you Cr Maytom for your dedication and time given on behalf of our community. The Irrigator would like to wish Cr Maytom all the best for the future and would like to thank him for his assistance over the years.

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