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COMPETITION for the position of Stirling Mayor is heating up, with as many as six councillors likely to nominate for the top job following the October 17 council elections.

Mayor David Boothman and former mayor Terry Tyzack will again vie for the head position after little separated the pair in mayoral voting at the 2007 election.

John Italiano, Rod Willox and Elizabeth Re have also revealed they will put their hands up for the role.

A sixth possible candidate, Coastal Ward councillor Bill Stewart, said he had yet to decide if he would run.

Councillors will elect the mayor at a special council meeting on October 20.

Cr Boothman said while he was focusing on getting re-elected to remain a Balga Ward councillor, he was keen to resume the mayoralty for another two years.

“I would like to throw my hat in the ring to be considered for another term,” he said. “I’ve worked very hard to form strong relationships with both Federal and State Governments, and the cohesion between the City’s officers and councillors is at an all-time high.”

Cr Tyzack, who has served two stints as mayor in the past three decades, said he would look for support from fellow councillors.

“If I’m successful as a candidate, I will make the necessary contact with new and existing councillors and put my hand up for mayor.”

Cr Italiano was looking to spearhead a more proactive approach to City projects.

“I believe we have got different directions that we need to take, because I don’t think we are moving forward as we need to be.”

Cr Willox said his “significant experience” would be an asset, while Cr Re said her communication and networking skills would help her succeed if she were to be elected as the City’s second female mayor.

Stirling differs from a number of local councils, using a system where the mayor is chosen by councillors and not ratepayers.