OUTGOING mayor Robert Loughnan has paid tribute to the outgoing Maranoa Regional Council for the achievements of the past four years.

In an open letter to the region, Mr Loughnan said it would be sad to say good-bye to the job he has held since 2008.

“I congratulate each and every councillor on their election or re-election and I wish each of them nothing but the best for the next four years,” he wrote.

“This council has a really well balanced and professional look about it and I think the dynamics within the team will make for strong debate and good decisions.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as your mayor and I leave the position with a great sense of pride and satisfaction.”

Mr Loughnan said he would now focus his attention back to his family, which he had worked hard to keep out of the public spotlight.

“I want to publicly thank my wife Dianne and my sons Pat and Nick,” he said.

“I have always protected my family from public scrutiny and I make no apology for that.

“Because my eldest son was born just two months after the 2000 elections, neither of my boys has ever known their father at a time when he wasn’t the mayor.

“I want to be remembered as a good father rather than a good mayor and that reversal of priorities starts now.”

Mr Loughnan also congratulated his opponent Tyson Golder, wishing him well on his future career.

“I do hope though that our region’s new Mayor has inherited some of the wisdom, diplomacy and listening skills often demonstrated by his dad,” he said.

“I regarded Alf as a solid councillor and we worked together on the old Saleyards and Showgrounds Board.

“I am sure he would be very proud to see his son in his new role.”