There is a new mayor, Duncan Gair, and deputy, Graham McLaughlin, who took up their new posts following the mayoral election last week. And now we have a permanent general manager, in Ann Prendergast.

For many it may not seem much of a change as both Councillors Gair and McLaughlin are familiar faces on council and Ms Prendergast has been steering the local government ship for the past 12 months as acting general manager.

However, most who have ever experienced a leadership role will attest that there is a huge sense of responsibility and even pressure, knowing that the buck stops with you. It is a role that requires respect and support from the team around you.

In the case of a leadership role on council, that responsibility has the potential to affect everyone in the community.

In fact, such leaders in the Wingecarribee are charged with the task of making the decisions about services, facilities and opportunities for about 46,000 people while ensuring a vision for the future. No pressure at all!

Only time will tell whether the changing of the guard at the helm or a permanent appointment to the general manager's role is a good thing. However, surely the fact that all three appointments come with a strong knowledge and familiarity with the shire they serve is a promising start.

Here's hoping that their main focus is on serving the needs of this community first and foremost.