Published on 10 November 2026
Banyule City Council has elected Cr Peter Castaldo as Mayor for the next 12 months, with Cr Mary O'Kane appointed Deputy Mayor at tonight’s Special Council Meeting.
Cr Castaldo said he was excited to be working alongside Deputy Mayor Cr O'Kane following a year of strong leadership from outgoing Mayor Cr Alison Chapion and Deputy Mayor Cr Rick Garotti.
"It is a great privilege to serve as Mayor again."
Cr Castaldo said he wanted to elevate the great work and services of Council and work towards being a real leader in the sector.
"Collaboration and working towards a unified voice will keep us on a good trajectory over the coming year."
Cr Castaldo was first elected to Council in 2016 and has served as Mayor previously in 2022/23 and Deputy Mayor in 2024/25.
A Banyule local for more than 35 years and father of two, grew up in and attended school in the area - has represented the community of Griffin Ward since 2016. Having grown up and attended school in Banyule, Cr Castaldo now lives here with his family.
He is passionate about good governance, enhancing the environment, and creating a beautiful Banyule that will benefit current and future generations.