Cr O’Rourke confirmed on Tuesday she would nominate for an unprecedented third consecutive term as mayor of Bendigo.

But she is set to face numerous challengers, including Cr Fyffe, who has previously served four terms as mayor.

Deputy mayor Jennifer Alden and Cr Andrea Metcalf also confirmed they would be nominating for mayor.

The vote was due to take place this month, but was delayed until November following the resignation of Julie Hoskin. The council wanted to ensure the replacement councillor could participate in the vote.

Cr O’Rourke said the council would benefit from having a consistent approach in the coming year.

“I think it does just bring that consistency. We’ve getting into the third quarter, as we say, of our council term,” she said.

“There are a number of things that we would like to finish off and set up for the final year.

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“I think having the consistency of someone as mayor for that third year would bring some real benefits.”

Cr O’Rourke was the first councillor to serve back-to-back terms as Bendigo mayor since the City of Greater Bendigo was created following the council amalgamations of 1994.

Cr Fyffe said he, too, could provide the experience necessary for the mayoral role.

“I have the knowledge and experience in that area, and very good connections with the community including in heritage, cultural, environmental, social and sporting aspects,” he said.

“I’ve got the time, the energy and enthusiasm to deliver the message of the City of Greater Bendigo.

“I would only nominate for a one-year term.”

It remained unclear whether Crs James Williams, George Flack or Matt Emond would nominate.

Cr Yvonne Wrigglesworth said she was yet to make a decision.

“I’m still undecided at this time. We still have a couple of weeks to decide and at the moment we are just processing today’s countback,” she said.

“I’m sure there will be plenty of competition for the role.

“It’s important to stay focused on what we are delivering for the community. We owe it to the community to stay the course.”

The mayoral vote will take place on November 20.