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BLACKTOWN has fallen to the Liberal Party for the first time since 1989.
While the major parties tied, with seven of the 15 seats each, the final position went to long-serving independent Russ Dickens.
Dr Dickens's victory ensured Liberal control of the council.
Former Liberal councillor Nick Tyrrell said the area had rejected Labor.
"This has got to be an embarrassment for Robbo. In his own backyard, people are still throwing rocks at the ALP," he said.
The position of mayor will be determined at an extraordinary meeting next week.