A NEAR 30-year veteran in local government will lead Wentworth Shire Council to the next election in 2021.

Cr Susan Nichols was chosen randomly from two nominations for the shire's top position to replace Melisa Hederics, who resigned suddenly citing health and personal reasons.

Cr Nichols and Cr Tim Elstone were nominated to fill the void left by Cr Hederics with the show of hands vote tied a...