This post was originally published behind Murray Bridge News’ paywall. Paywalled posts are unlocked four weeks after publication. Can’t wait that long? Subscribe here.

After eight years, Brenton Lewis is ready to hand over the reins.

Murray Bridge’s outgoing mayor was farewelled at the Bridgeport Hotel on Monday night.

Hundreds could well have joined the well-wishers, but the man of the hour opted for a more modest celebration.

Current councillors and staff made up most of the 30 or so attendees, though a surprise guest was among them.

His daughter Kelly appeared via a video link from the United Kingdom, joining his wife Kathy and their daughter Bianca, who were there in person.

Federal MP Tony Pasin, state MP Adrian Pederick, SA Police Superintendent Scott Denny and council CEO Michael Sedgman all offered congratulations.

Mr Lewis said he had enjoyed every part of his career’s journey.

“I’ve never had a job in my life I haven’t loved,” he said.

“I’ve been so fortunate.”

He thanked councillors, Mr Sedgman and his staff for their support over the years: “Whatever success has been talked about here this evening, it’s your success”.

It has been a big eight years

The Murray Bridge council’s accomplishments during Mr Lewis’ two mayoral terms have been many.

Mr Sedgman reflected on a few of them on Monday night:

• strategic, economic and infrastructure plans which will take Murray Bridge through to the 2030s, including the Sturt Reserve master plan

• projects including Murray Bridge’s stormwater reuse scheme, regional rowing centre, war memorial, the Adelaide Road linear park and the Murray River Study Hub

• redevelopments of Sixth Street, the skate park, the swimming centre and the Lerwin nursing home

• events including the SA Masters Games, Tour Down Under, Murray Bridge Fringe, New Year’s Eve fireworks, Splash Festival and the bunyip’s birthday

• the formation of groups including Murray Bridge Safe and a town pride committee

“I am sure that you would all agree that the Rural City of Murray Bridge council and Murray Bridge council area has benefited from Brenton’s leadership over the past eight years, and that the council that Brenton leaves this week is in a significantly improved state compared to that that he joined eight years ago,” Mr Sedgman said.

Mr Lewis enjoyed a long and successful career in agribusiness, and a spell as the chief executive of Regional Development Australia Murraylands and Riverland, prior to his election in 2014.

• Read more: Brenton Lewis farewelled at his last Murray Bridge council meeting

• Read more: Passion or pragmatism: Murray Bridge voters face a striking mayoral choice