04/06/2026
Loddon Shire Council has locked in its top executive for another five years, with Chief Executive Officer Lincoln Fitzgerald reappointed to lead the organisation through to 2031.
Councillors endorsed a new five-year contract for Linc, which will take effect from 1 November 2026 following the expiry of his current contract.
Linc first took on the role in 2021 and has overseen a period that included the COVID-19 recovery, major flood events in 2022 and 2023, and the ongoing challenges faced by rural councils across Victoria.
Loddon Shire Mayor Dan Straub said councillors had little hesitation in offering Mr Fitzgerald another term at the helm.
“Lincoln has led Loddon Shire outstandingly during his time here, including navigating out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2022 and 2023 floods and a whole host of financial and other challenges that go with a rural municipality,” said Dan.
“We look forward to him continuing to lead Council as we seek to achieve the aims of the 2025-29 Council Plan, the advocacy program that we have and will continue to run, and ensuring Loddon Shire is well positioned for the future.”
Linc said he was honoured by the decision and viewed it as recognition of the work being done across the entire organisation.
“I see this as a vote of confidence not just in myself but the whole organisation and the direction we are heading,” he said.
“I have really enjoyed working in this community, and the support I have received in it, and look forward to continuing to doing so.”
Before becoming CEO, Linc held a variety of local government roles, including positions with the City of Greater Bendigo and Mount Alexander Shire Council, as well as working overseas.
