Edward Ryan served as Dalby Town Council Mayor from 1891 to 1894, and again in 1898. He was a pioneer of the Dalby district, and since 1881 had been a member of the Dalby Town Council, being elected Mayor from 1891 to 1894, and also in 1898.
For twenty years, he was a member of the Hospital Committee, and was a member of the Jockey Club and other local institutions. He was also the owner of the Imperial Hotel, and lived there for many years.