Meet the candidates for Horsham Rural City Council election 2020

Earlier this year I started a campaign to keep Horsham's council run home and community care services in public hands.

Despite overwhelming support for our efforts, Council still voted to privatise those services.

That's why I've decided it's time we have a council that understands "it's about the community".

Our community has a wealth of knowledge and experience and councillors should draw on that to make decisions in the best interests of all of us.

I want to ensure there is equality for all residents and no-one's voice is left out. It shouldn't matter if you are living in aged care, if you're running a farm, if you're involved with local sporting clubs or if you depend on council services for your family. Council should be there for you.

My vision for Horsham is for a safe community with an increased focus on tourism, the arts and expanded local industry.

Now more than ever, Council should support local employment, infrastructure development and quality services.

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Council services should be available and accessible to everyone who needs them.

Horsham has always been my home and from a young age I learnt the benefits of giving back to the community. In recent years, I have done this by supporting the Christian Emergency Food Centre, Craft for a Cause and Rotary.

Through my work at GWMWater, I have participated in major infrastructure projects throughout the region, so I understand the importance of adhering to standards and compliance to keep our community safe and healthy.

I have also learnt the importance of genuine consultation and prioritising community needs during the decision-making process. We all deserve a council that puts it's residents first and embraces change. I look forward to working with you to deliver for Horsham.

What is your vision for the municipality of Horsham Rural City Council?

I want to ensure we have a municipality with opportunities for employment, development of infrastructure and provision of services to further enhance our community which offers safety, potential for tourism, and expanding industries

What expertise or attributes do you have which would help you in undertaking the role of Councillor?

I have qualifications in Management, Leadership and Governance. I relate and engage well with all sections of our community.

Are you currently a councillor? No

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As a local resident for 23 years, I am passionate about Horsham and the opportunities we have to do better, economically and socially.

To be a Councillor, I understand its not about me, but us.

I will put aside my personal beliefs to represent and advocate for the whole community on issues that arise.

All my decisions must pass a community test; that is, to be in the best interests of you, the people I represent.

I will be consulting with and listening to you, ready to advocate strongly on your behalf with council and council officers to achieve a reasonable outcome for us as residents and for the Rural City Council.

Together, we can create a thriving regional community, to be seen by others as a vibrant place to live, work and raise families.

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That will require affordable access to health, public transport, education, employment, etc.

If you want a change for the better, think about who has the vision and passion for taking the Horsham Rural City community forward in a positive and sustainable direction by listening to and working with individuals, groups and the wider community.

I see a thriving community with a strong economy and healthy bottom line built on opportunities for all with a strong push to capture private, business, State and Federal investment.

I will do my part to ensure the Councils decision-making processes involve community consultations; is timely, fair and transparent for all.

If you like the idea of being represented by a passionate advocate with a community vision, join me and lets make our community the very best it can be. Vote 1 for David Bowe

What is your vision for the municipality of Horsham Rural City Council?

Promote our natural assets, investment opportunities, lifestyle to attract more people to relocate to our community and to be seen and promoted as a thriving regional community as a vibrant place to live, work and raise families, with affordable access to health, housing, public transport, education, and employment, etc.

What expertise or attributes do you have which would help you in undertaking the role of Councillor?

I have a wide range of experiences and skills, I have a strong ability to communicate with people at all levels.

People find me reliable, resourceful, honest, and caring and open-minded. I have good research skills, the time to do the job properly, and I am a good listener.

Are you currently a councillor? No

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Vote 1 Claudia Haenel for Horsham Rural City Council. A third generation Horsham resident I am passionate about the Wimmera.

Currently I am enjoying a rural lifestyle in the natural ambience and tranquillity our region has to offer.

I make decisions based on my diverse experience in media, small business ownership and event organising, also knowledge from working in the arts, health, hospitality and agricultural sectors.

I have worked with people all my life and it would be an honour and privilege to serve as a councillor for the community I was born and raised in.

I am resilient, honest, friendly, inclusive, enthusiastic and positive, with a strong moral compass.

Innovating and thinking outside the square can energise our community going forward.

I believe start up festivals and major events draw visitors to our town, providing jobs and injecting funds into our local economy.

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In turn all sectors will benefit, providing more jobs and stimulus the whole community needs.

Arts, entertainment, hospitality and tourism bring positive health and wellbeing outcomes for everyone, both now and into the future.

Overall, there is much to look forward to for Horsham and our region. It is an exciting time.

Now is the perfect opportunity to shape the liveability of our town and surrounding areas through sustainable roads, infrastructure and services to cater for our bright future ahead.

I appreciate your vote and invite you to reach out to me at: claudiahaenelvote1horsham@gmail.com or https://www.facebook.com/claudiahaenelvote1horsham

What is your vision for the municipality of Horsham Rural City Council?

Festivals and events to stimulate the economy, provide jobs and maintain community wellbeing. Services, infrastructure and roads for liveability.

Balance between city and rural.

What expertise or attributes do you have which would help you in undertaking the role of Councillor?

Business owner for over 17 years, event manager, leader in the community, 3rd generation Horsham resident, currently living rurally.

Strong, resilient, honest, friendly, team player, positive forward thinking, inclusive, passionate about community well being, jobs, services and infrastructure for liveability.

Are you currently a councillor? No

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HRCC needs to make better quality decisions; major projects are being entered into without sound governance, ie cost benefit analysis, risk management, and appropriate community engagement.

The City to River project and the radioactive waste dump at Kanagulk are two glaring examples.

When HRCC signed off on the investigation level trigger for radiation at 30 times the public dose rate for radiation.

This is not acceptable.

HRCC must improve the rationale behind its decisions.

Our rural roads are in a poor state of repair, gravel roads don't have enough maintenance being dangerously pot-holed and corrugated and there needs to be a significant increase in road budgeting.

HRCC should not just focus on the top end of town.

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It should complete the North Horsham Improvement Strategies with the planned green spaces.

Our outer communities of Natimuk, Dooen, Jung, Pimpinio, Laharum, need planning and strategies to improve the whole municipality. HRCC needs to have the courage to make the decision of a ring road/bypass.

My wife and I have farmed at Telangatuk and raised our family in one of the most isolated corners of our municipality.

A little about my profile: I was educated at Balmoral, DipAppSciAg from Longerenong, returning to the family farm running merinos. We have grown our enterprise six-fold.

Past community involvement: played football and cricket locally; CFA 42 years past Secretary and Lieutenant; 19 years Balmoral Apex including President; Director of Glenelg Hoskins CMA Board, 12 years with Long Service Award and chaired Glenelg Stream Rivers Project. Also past Chair of Balmoral Branch VFF; Telangatuk Landcare Group; Public Officer and National Vice President to Finn Sheep Breeders Association; and Chair Horsham Uniting Church. I am currently Chair of the Kanagulk Landcare Group and a community representative on the Douglas Iluka Environmental Review Committee.

What is your vision for the municipality of Horsham Rural City Council?

My vision for HRCC is to have an economically strong municipality with an equitable and strong social conscience, with the environment being enjoyed and protected. A great place to live.

What expertise or attributes do you have which would help you in undertaking the role of Councillor?

Expertise that I bring is that I have a strong community volunteer ethic, with over 40 years experience. I have successful business experience along with 12 years as a Director of a statutory authority. If elected, I would also be a valuable team member with my practical environment management knowledge.

Are you currently a councillor? No

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Horsham Rural City is a wonderful place to live, work, play, visit and invest. I would like the opportunity to help it grow, develop and mature as an important regional city that provides the services and facilities required to meet the diverse community needs and interests now and into the future.

My name is Robyn Gulline. For the last 25 years, Longerenong has been my home.

I am an independent thinker with a strong, positive personality and moral compass who values truth, honesty, and integrity and will always be approachable, respectful of different opinions and accountable for my decisions.

A mother to 3 young adults, returned home after studying away. A rural resident and farmer.

A teacher having taught from Preschool to University and currently teaching Risk Management at Longerenong College.

A volunteer for our community, agriculture, and the region, who has and continues to serve on numerous committees and Boards, for no financial reward but because my skills and knowledge help make a difference.

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Passionate advocate for this region, having served terms on Wimmera Southern Mallee Regional Partnership, Regional Development Australia Grampians, Wimmera Development Association, and Leadership Wimmera.

A leader, who has and currently chairs a range of committees and Boards, including Horshams Urban Transport (2019) and Rural Road Network (2020) Project Control Groups, Partners in Ag (2017-2020) and Victorian Farmers Federation Industrial Association (since 2019). Highly educated with a Master of Business Administration, Bachelor of Education, Diploma of Accounting, Diploma of Teaching (Primary/Preschool), and Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.

I believe that my highly refined skills of financial, business and risk management; governance; strategic thinking; analysis, evaluation and problem solving; effective communicator (listening, verbal and written); and leadership and teamwork, would make me an ideal Councillor.

Please consider me when casting your vote

What is your vision for the municipality of Horsham Rural City Council?

Horsham Rural City is a wonderful place to live, work, play, visit and invest. I would like the opportunity to help it develop and mature as an important regional city that provides the services and facilities required to meet the diverse community needs and interests now and into the future.

What expertise or attributes do you have which would help you in undertaking the role of Councillor?

I am a mother, farmer, rural resident, volunteer, advocate for our region and experienced leader. I believe that my highly refined skills of financial, business and risk management; governance; strategic thinking; analysis, evaluation and problem solving; effective communicator (listening, verbal); and leadership and teamwork, would make me an ideal Councillor.

Are you currently a councillor? No

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I have been 'shining a light into our council' through my blog Horsham Rural City Council Watch, since November 2018.

I started this blog to highlight issues and concerns with the decision-making, lack of transparency, and accountability by the current Councillors.

If you vote for me I will ensure that Councillors be your voice, and to act on your behalf in the best interests of the community at large.

After attending several Council meetings, I found that that we, the community, are being excluded from having our views listened to, and considered.

A good example was the 2,000+ signature petition requesting that the City to River work be slowed/suspended, lodged at the end of 2019, being ignored.

It is time we stand up and take our Council back; and that's what I plan to do.

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I bring with me a strong mixture of work, education, and academic experience; as well as having spent my formative years in a rural city similar to Horsham.

You can view my experience, qualifications and skills here: www.horshamrccouncilwatch.home.blog.

I am currently self-employed as a Mental Health Counsellor/Clinical Hypnotherapist.

I am committed to Horsham and improving the Council-Community relationship.

I am keen to increase Horsham and the Wimmeras profile for tourism, employers, and lobby for the decentralisation of government agencies which would bring jobs and income to the municipality.

After all the current COVID pandemic has demonstrated that certain agencies no longer need to centralised to be effective. Vote 1 Brian Basham.

What is your vision for the municipality of Horsham Rural City Council?

My vision is to consolidate the current and future focus for all the municipality, not just the Horsham township. We need to leverage all areas and look to how we can expand over the next 5, 10, 20 years; therefore, we need to make the area attractive to employers.

What expertise or attributes do you have which would help you in undertaking the role of Councillor?

I bring a strong analytical mind; a strong sense of community; a passion for community engagement and involvement. I am also keen to put US, the community, at the forefront of every decision. We may not agree on everything. But you can rest assured, with me, I will listen.

Are you currently a councillor? No

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I have now lived in and been part of the Horsham Community for the past forty four years and have had the pleasure to see the ongoing positive development of our local government area from the Wartook Valley, the surrounds of Natimuk, the Kalkee plains and the regional city of Horsham.

I have been involved with many community organisations as a volunteer (Blue Ribbon Foundation, SES, Horsham & District Football Netball league, Grampians Indigenous Family Violence Regional Action Group) to name a few.

It has been a real privilege to serve the Horsham community as a Councillor over the past four years. If re-elected my undertaking to you is to be available and approachable to provide personal representation to all people within our vibrant community.

I will continue the fight for a better share of State and Federal funding during these trying times and a fairer rate system for all in our community.

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As a councillor my priorities will be encouraging business and employment growth, housing, welfare - reducing domestic violence/ suicide, better education, medical and recreational facilities and opportunities, arts, tourism, road and rail transport (public and private) and long term planning.

I believe in family, small and large business and building on the strengths of our community- working together, democratic principles and efficient accountable local government.

I stand independent and dedicated to work for the municipality, to listen, consult, and give positive leadership with a clear vision for our future. Vote 1 Les POWER 0419922687

What is your vision for the municipality of Horsham Rural City Council?

My vision for Horsham is to be a truly regional city that encourages people to visit, enjoy our life style and want to stay to raise their family in our vibrant city on the Wimmera River that encourages strong economic growth and employment and a happy stress free life style.

What expertise or attributes do you have which would help you in undertaking the role of Councillor?

I have had the privilege of living in the beautiful city of Horsham for the past 44 years and I have just completed my first term as a HRCC Councillor and would like to continue and progress the initiatives commenced in my first term.

Are you currently a councillor? Yes

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I came to Horsham in 2001 as curator of the Australian genebank for legume and oilseed crops.'

My activities include; the Horsham East Rotary Club with participation in Defying the Drift agricultural vocation program, the schools Science and Engineering challenge, and catering for community events, plus Engineers society tours, U3A activities and Film Society screenings, and the Australian Institute of Agriculture.

I co-edited books on climate change and agriculture.

I am on the HRCC Community Reference Group for riverfront development. Horsham region has much to offer.

I am excited about future growth, such as the 2nd stage of Murra Warra windfarm and development of two mineral sand mines.

My vision includes:

1. Tourism, with a rail sprint car to Ararat connecting to Melbourne, and increased Overland rail services from Perth and Darwin to Melbourne, then to Brisbane on a future fast train. A break at Horsham provides visits to the Grampians, the silo art trail, and riverfront developments;

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2. An Agricultural Hub with Smart Farm development at Longerenong College provides vocational training in big data management with sensors and high tech machinery, and on a co-located international plant breeding farm. Other companies also provide new varieties, and work experience is available with Agriculture Victoria. Crop marketing, legume value adding, and machinery enterprises complement these enterprises which HRCC can encourage;

3. Local initiatives for self-reliance involve bushfire preparedness, encouragement of water tanks for home and local gardens, free passive solar heating with full height north windows and solar panels, facilitated with urban planning such as the Natimuk solar energy initiative;

4. Service clubs, regional sports, golf, cycling, fishing and walking options can all be further supported;

5. Local flexibility is needed for legislative changes to rural roads, Horsham library, and elderly services, to facilitate transition to local providers with local priorities.

What is your vision for the municipality of Horsham Rural City Council?

My vision is; progressive council planning with residents and stakeholder groups; support for wind farm and sand mining initiatives; growth of the agricultural hub; self-reliance with north windows for free passive solar heating, solar panels and solar farms e.g. Natimuk; and water tanks for vegetable gardens. Improved rail services.

What expertise or attributes do you have which would help you in undertaking the role of Councillor?

I have; expertise in project management and financing with Australian and overseas partners, and multi-cultural experience with Spanish fluency and other language skills. I am familiar with tourism internationally.

Are you currently a councillor? No

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I offer myself to you as an experienced and honest community driven leader, with a strong passion for developing and building our Community.

The key to a stronger future is to develop projects based on what our community needs and values, gathered through acceptable community consultation to develop infrastructure and services.

Raised on a Wimmera Farm, educated locally and married with adult children, I treasure our way of life.

With extensive business experience in retail and hospitality as an Owner, Manager and Administrator, I understand our importance as a regional City and the need to attract new business, while supporting existing Business and Industry and generating local opportunities for youth.

My Community service extends across many sporting and community organizations, including Ratepayers Association, Kannamaroo Festival, Horsham College, Horsham Greyhounds, Netball, Tennis and Blue Ribbon Raceway.

I have participated in CBD Development, Parking Management, Tourism and City to River.

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I commit to all residents to target reductions in waste and spending, keeping rates fair to all including the farming sector.

This includes reducing money spent on endless outsourced consultants.

If elected I promise to be responsible, accountable and support decision making on matters that offer the greatest net community benefits for services, facilities, and infrastructure.

Important core projects included in my vision are, a second River crossing offering a safe efficient truck route, Regional Indoor Outdoor sports HUB, Rail corridor development and completion of Community Plans for Horsham North, Haven, Jung, Mitre, Natimuk, Dadswells Bridge, Laharum-Wartook.

No matter where we live in the municipality, whatever our age or ability, it should not limit our lives or services.

I pledge to reinstate public confidence in Council and be available and approachable to consult and listen to all residents equally. I welcome your call 0491 611537

What is your vision for the municipality of Horsham Rural City Council?

My vision is completion of core projects including: a second River crossing, Indoor Outdoor sports HUB, Rail corridor and existing Community Plans for Horsham North, rural areas and parks. No matter where we live in the municipality, whatever our age or ability, it should not limit our lives or services.

What expertise or attributes do you have which would help you in undertaking the role of Councillor?

I bring Community leadership with honesty, integrity, openness, and transparency. I continually demonstrate a passion for Community building, believe in respecting values and ideas of others, and have a reputation for representing community members and organisations. I am optimistic and believe we can build a great future together

Are you currently a councillor? No

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The contents of candidate statements and questions were provided by the candidates to the VEC. Any enquiries about candidate statements should be directed to the relevant candidate.

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