Currently in her first term on Greater Shepparton City Council, Cr Abdullah said she was determined to one day take on the top role.
“The idea was in the back of my mind from the beginning,” she said.
“In the later years as I started understanding our local government better, and as I started taking on more council representative roles on different committees and boards, I got this confidence that if given an opportunity I would be able to do this role.”
Cr Abdullah was nominated by Cr Bruce Giovanetti during the special council meeting.
This nomination was challenged by Cr Kim O'Keeffe, who unsuccessfully nominated herself for a third term as Mayor.
Cr Abdullah said she had shared her interest in the mayoral position with several councillors in recent weeks.
She received votes from all councillors, excluding Cr O'Keeffe.
“I've very honoured and humbled by the support I have received from my fellow councillors.”
“A quick chat with some of them gave me an understanding that it was something that would be looked into and that they would be receptive of this idea.
“I decided to finally put it out there that I am ready and willing to do this role.”
With council elections set to take place in October next year, Cr Abdullah said she was determined to make the most out of her slightly shorter stint in the top spot.
“What I'm hoping to achieve is to build on the momentum that great things are happening in Greater Shepparton,” she said.
“We know this and we have seen in the past few years that Greater Shepparton is a really happening place.
“A fresh approach and fresh energy will definitely benefit the community.”
Cr Abdullah will be supported by Cr Dinny Adem, who also came up against Cr O'Keeffe for the deputy mayor role.
Cr Adem was also nominated by Cr Giovanetti, while Cr O'Keeffe was nominated by Cr Dennis Patterson.
“In the deputy mayor role, I believe he (Dinny Adem) will do fantastic job,” Cr Abdullah said.
Cr Abdullah's mayoral duties begin today.
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