It was an opportunity for the five first-time councillors - Brian Brown, Jamie Cregan, Toni McLennan, Judith Burfoot and Kenrick Winchester - to be welcomed onto council and given a few pointers about local government procedures.

General manager Gary Chapman said it was a chance for all councillors to meet and fresh faces to be introduced to senior council staff and familiarise themselves with the meeting code of conduct.

Cr Winchester, 29, said he was very humbled to be voted onto council and was looking forward to bringing a younger perspective to council. 

He said his top things issues on council was the traffic situation on Canberra Avenue, supporting sporting clubs and facilities and improve tourism in the region.

"I'm hoping we'll all work co-operatively and I think the best council is one where people are open to listening to each other's opinions and ideas," he said.

Cr Winchester said he would remain independent in his approach to council decisions.

"I did have a preference deal with Tim ... he's certainly popular getting over 50% of the mayoral vote," he said. 

"But I'm 100 per cent independent, just because we had that deal with Tim it's not going to affect my decisions on council. He doesn't need my support anyway as he has a majority. I'm 100 per cent independent on every issue and won't be pressured by anyone on council."

Labor councillor Judith Burfoot said she is excited to be on council and her focus would be enlivening the CBD with a stronger arts and music culture.

"It's very different to actually be on council rather than just observing," she said. 

"I'm looking forward to working with the other councillors. It might take some time to get a little bit up to speed but I'm sure we'll be able to get assistance and you have to start somewhere.

"The real work starts now."