A strategic alliance, Hunter Councils is made up of representatives from 12 councils from Scone in the Upper Hunter to Lakes Macquarie and north to Taree and Gloucester.

Cr Chadban said the alliance covers a very large area and represents the interests of the member councils.

"I am pleased to be given the opportunity of heading up the organisation which operates a very successful business/operational arm in areas such as environment control, records storage, learning development and regional procurement," he said.

"The Board of Hunter Councils is made of the representatives of each council. I am pleased to be able to accept the leadership role of the organisation as I feel strongly about its importance to local government in the region.

"It provides a great forum for debate and reconciling issues as well as an advocacy body capable of taking up the views of local councils. The strength of Hunter Councils has undoubtedly been in its ability to work as a collective body to improve all aspects of council's operations from joint purchasing to training, community development and social planning.

"Much has been done through the different professional groups to benefit individual councils in their day to day operations and to share information and skills.

"The structure of the organisations provides for the general managers to have a strong advisory role to support the board and the staff.

"Overall I am looking to continue the role of Hunter Councils and ensure that it remains a valuable vehicle to advance and represent the councils of the region."

During the year board meetings will be held at different councils in the Hunter Region with the August meeting scheduled to be held in Forster.

"I am hoping that this will provide an opportunity for councillors to attend and meet other elected representatives from throughout the Hunter," Cr Chadban said.