It became apparent the born and raised Cloncurry grazier would retain his position soon after counting began.

The latest figures at time of print yesterday showed Cr Daniels with an imposing lead over former councillor and nursery owner John Swalling.

Cr Daniels had received 598 votes yesterday with Mr Swalling on 325.

It was a very different story in 2008 when the mayoralty was decided by a "chook raffle" after the pair tied with 428 votes apiece.

Cr Daniels said he was "very relieved" the election was decided quickly this time around.

"I felt that I worked hard enough to be in this position and that Cloncurry is generally satisfied that I've done a pretty good job," he said.

Mr Swalling said he expected the result to be closer.

"I just want to congratulate Andrew on his win and hope he takes Cloncurry forward," he said.

He ruled out a third tilt for mayor at the next election.

"Definitely not," he said.

The race for councillor positions is less clear cut.

Only a handful of votes seperate the top five contenders for the four available roles.

Auctioneer Keith Douglas led the pack yesterday with 643 votes.

Incumbent councillor and Rodeo Saddle Shop owner Colin Ferguson was next with 612, tied with Corella Park grazier Jane McMillan.

Greg Campbell, who served as deputy mayor in the previous council, and Brightlands Station grazier Bob McDonald are only five votes apart in a competition for the final spot on council.

Mr McDonald has served on the council since 1976.

John Swalling's son Dane, a plumber, received 457 votes while Joseph Bugelli was on 121 yesterday.

Cr Daniels said he empathised with the councillor candidates as they waited to hear the final count.

"They're in the same boat I was this time last election," he said.

"Now they know the angst."

He said the council would miss the vast experience of Mr McDonald should he fail to regain his seat.

"Bob's been on the council for 37 years," he said

"Some people might think he's not going out a winner but in my heart and mind he'll always be a winner."

While Cr Daniels said he still held a "glimmer of hope" Mr McDonald would be returned, he lamented the "unbelievable amount of knowledge" that would no longer be at the council's disposal. "But I know [if Mr McDonald is not returned to council] there will still be quite a few phone calls between myself and him," he said.

Cr Daniels said he was looking forward to moving ahead with the new council. Top priorities would be improving social infrastructure, air transport and the construction of a weir in Cloncurry and dam in Dajarra, he said.

Plans for the Dajarra dam were first floated in September last year.

Cr Daniels said the project was "just about ready to go ahead" pending meetings with natural resources and mines minister Andrew Cripps.