After a seven-day wait, she learnt she was one of two fresh faces on Goulburn Mulwaree Council.

While The Greens’ candidate polled well on first preferences (1076), she was still short of the 1696 votes required to meet quota.

“I’m relieved and so excited,” Miss Ferrara said on Sunday.

“I’ve wanted to do run for council for ages but I’m just over the moon.”

She said she thought she was “in with a shot” but didn’t want to get too excited.

Former Goulburn Workers Club CEO Peter Walker joins her on the team.

Seven existing councillors were returned. The NSW Electoral Commission announced the result on Saturday morning. Voting shifted from the Yass returning office to Riverwood on Friday to hasten the count. 

The new council in order of election is: Bob Kirk, Carol James, Sam Rowland, Margaret O’Neill, Alfie Walker, Peter Walker, Leah Ferrara, Andrew Banfield and Denzil Sturgiss.

While Peter Oliver was tipped to take ninth spot based on his 945 first preference votes, Andrew Banfield pipped him at the post. Cr Banfield and Cr Sturgiss relied heavily on preferences and were elected despite not reaching quota.  

Mr Walker was also thrilled with the outcome.

“I’m very pleased and I thank the people who supported me because you can’t do it without them,” he said.

He hopes to run as Deputy Mayor but will sound out his colleagues first.

“I think I have the time and knowledge to be supportive of the Mayor,” Mr Walker said.

Cr Kirk said on Sunday he  expected the outcome.

“I’d like to think it’s a reflection of the council and the direction it has set,” he said.

Cr Banfield echoed the same sentiment.

Meantime, Mr Oliver said he was disappointed but was proud he’d come from the “outside rail” to be part of the mix.

"It has been an honour to receive as much support as I have throughout the campaign. I am still humbled by the fact so many people would put their faith in me, and I thank them all for it,” he said.

"However this isn't about me, this has always been about Goulburn Mulwaree, and ensuring that the area's best interests are served and met.”

The new council meets on October 4.