Cr McClaren was first elected to Strathbogie Shire Council along with Cr Debra Bower to represent Lake Nagambie Ward in 2016.
Shortly after being elected, councillors elected Cr McClaren to the role of mayor, a role she was proud to take on and represent the council and community.
Following three years of her mayoral term Cr McClaren was awarded Emeritus Mayor status by the Municipal Association of Victoria in 2019.
Cr McClaren was the youngest female mayor to be elected in Strathbogie Shire and she is the only mayor in Strathbogie Shire’s history to serve an entire four-year council term as mayor.
During her term on council she has attended hundreds of meetings with the community, businesses and with Victorian and Australian Government ministers as well as local members.
As council spokesperson she has undertaken more than 40 television interviews, 50 radio interviews and provided information to the community through countless social media videos.
“I have given the role 110 per cent during the past four years, it has been a privilege to serve the Strathbogie Shire community alongside my fellow councillors, all of whom work very hard for their community,” Cr McClaren said.
“Those who know me well, know that I have worked 24/7 in this role and after four years this has had an impact.
“I had already made the decision that if re-elected I would not be putting up my hand for the position of mayor again as I believe it is definitely time for a change.
“However, family and business commitments mean I am now not going to stand for Lake Nagambie Ward in the upcoming local government elections.
“I am not stepping away because there is anything wrong, I’m stepping away because council is in a great position.”
Cr McClaren said her family had supported her during her time with council and now it was time for her to focus on them.
“My sons are growing fast and our business is also growing and requiring a lot more of my time and focus, so I am putting my family and our family business first,” she said.
“I would like to sincerely thank the Lake Nagambie Ward community for electing me to represent them in 2016.
“It has been a privilege and honour to serve our Lake Nagambie and shire community.”
Cr McClaren wished all the candidates in the upcoming local government elections the best for their campaign and thanked community clubs and volunteers for all the work they do.
“It is impossible to list everyone who should be acknowledged and thanked for their support as I fear I would inadvertently miss some one,” she said.
“I appreciate all the volunteer efforts that go into keeping our town active and vibrant as Nagambie flourishes.
“Nagambie is definitely moving ahead and the growth we are experiencing is definitely going against the trend in regional Victoria.
“I sincerely thank the Lake Nagambie Ward community for electing me in 2016, it has been an honour and a privilege to serve you.”
When asked if she would run for local government in the future, Cr McClaren said she has not ruled out putting her hand up again.
“I learnt many years ago you should never say never, and that if you feel you can contribute to your community in a positive way then you should put your hand up,” she said.