Note: No statement was provided to the Victorian Electoral Commission by the candidate.

What is your vision for the municipality of Hindmarsh Shire Council?

I believe that continuing to upgrade and improve service levels and infrastructure throughout the Shire will create a desirable place for people to want to live, work, and play. I anticipate Hindmarsh Shire will prosper by investing in opportunities to attract tourists and visitors.

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

Having eight years experience serving the community as a Councillor, combined with strong finance skills and a passion to drive positive outcomes for Dimboola and the whole Shire I believe will enable me to continue to be effective in the role of a Councillor.

Are you currently a Councillor? Yes.

It is with great excitement that I announce my intent to run for council in Hindmarsh North Ward.

Living in this area for the past 11 years has enriched my life immensely and I've always been keen to give back to the community.

In my working life I've developed some valuable skills in business development, marketing/communications and media that I'll use to enrich the role of Councilor for North Ward.

I hope to help expand opportunities for business, employment and community lifestyle in Hindmarsh and with some great infrastructure, manufacturing and tourism initiatives on the horizon it's entirely possible to see our towns flourish with renewed energy.

I first fell in love with the Wimmera 12 years ago when making a film on it's rich biodiversity for MECU Bank and Trust for Nature.

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I was blown away by the natural beauty of the Little Desert, Lake Hindmarsh, Pink Lake and Wimmera River and it's been a joy promoting our region through my media work and business Nhillbilly Farm.

Creating dynamic and rewarding employment for locals has been just one of many goals I've set myself in developing Nhillbilly Farm as a tourist attraction and asset to the community.

I'm looking forward to the challenges of working together with other businesses in North Ward to help us all reach new heights.

My first entrée into community development here was to help WWHS with a logo for the Wimmera Smiles mobile dental van, served on the NEYC fundraising committee and the Nhill Airshow organizing committees of 2016 and 2019, creating the Airshow imagery, logos and TV commercials.

If elected, I promise I'll work hard to make my council votes count for the betterment of all residents both young and elderly and businesses in our community.

What is your vision for the municipality of Hindmarsh Shire Council?

I hope to help expand opportunities for business, employment and community lifestyle in Hindmarsh and with some great infrastructure, manufacturing and tourism initiatives on the horizon it's entirely possible to see our towns flourish with renewed energy.

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

In my working life I've developed some valuable skills in business development, marketing/communications and media that I'll use to enrich the role of Councilor for North Ward.

Are you currently a Councillor? No.

I again offer myself for another term as a Councillor on the Hindmarsh Council.

I have enjoyed serving the community of Hindmarsh and beyond, in the time I have been a Councillor.

I have lived and farmed all my life in what is now the North Ward of Hindmarsh Shire, growing up in the Propodollah area, and later establishing my family on my Lorquon farm.

As a candidate who knows where you live, the life you lead, and the issues you face, I feel that I'm well placed to represent you for another term.

I have vast knowledge of the Hindmarsh Shire.

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I am well versed with the requirements of being a councillor, and the expectations of being a councillor.

Hindmarsh is a respected council within the rural councils of Victoria, and I desire that respect to be continued, by our leadership in local government.

We continue to represent our ratepayers and advocate on behalf of all residents for the betterment of all.

I am keen to see our road system upgraded to cater for the heavy transports now used to cart our produce to receival points and beyond.

This is already happening on the Nhill Rainbow Rd, and the Lorquon Jeparit Rd.

I would like to see the Yanac Netherby Lorquon Road also upgraded to provide a vital heavy link across the Shire.

Further north, I want to see the Albacutya bridge widened to cater for the grain and gypsum coming out of that area of the shire.

As always, Im easily approached and will act upon your requests.

If re-elected, I will continue to act to the best of my ability to give you the best possible outcome.

What is your vision for the municipality of Hindmarsh Shire Council?

Hindmarsh is a respected Council within the Rural Councils of Victoria, and I desire that respect to be continued, by our leadership in local government.

We continue to represent our ratepayers and advocate on behalf of all residents for the betterment of all.

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

Local knowledge of Shire. Already served twelve years as a councillor, including a term as Mayor.

Are you currently a Councillor? Yes.

I am standing for election to the North ward of Hindmarsh Shire.

This will be, if re-elected, my third and last term.

Without dwelling too much on the past but past performance may, hopefully, be an indication of what you can expect in the coming four years.

Advocated for and got a Youth Council.

Have been the delegate on eight to ten committees for the last seven years.

Have been the delegate on Wimmera Mallee Tourism for seven years, two as chairperson.

As mayor, lobbied the federal govt for the weather radar. Joined the Rail Freight Alliance, which supported upgrades of the Rainbow to Dimboola line, to twenty-one tonne axle loading, which may not have happened otherwise.

The next four years which is what you really need to know about.

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The new normal. I think there is going to be a very bright future for our shire when we get back to some sort of normality.

Regional tourism will play a big part in the recovery, Wimmera Mallee tourism is very well placed to take advantage of this with a range of initiatives in the pipeline.

The Wimmera river at Jeparit is an untapped diamond that could bring new life to the town.

The farm sector continues to upgrade machinery to remain efficient and viable, headers, air seeders and trucks.

I see road trains as part of that within the next four years, some of our roads are not up to that capability.

The North Riding has the largest share of rural roads which need to be upgraded along with continuing tree trimming, I hope to initiate renewed farmer consultation which has lost a little of its support from both sides. Maybe a new format.

You can be assured of my continued dedication, thank you for your consideration.

What is your vision for the municipality of Hindmarsh Shire Council?

A strong economically viable council with good quality roads and infrastructure, and healthy, socially connected residents. Enhanced tourism, farm value adding and the encouragement of light industry to the area. Quality amenities for the youth and sporting clubs and user-friendly facilities for the elderly.

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

Past experience with the former Shire of Dimboola, a term as president, seven years as a Hindmarsh councillor, two terms as Mayor. Eighteen years on the board of West Wimmera Health Service, three as president. Completed the Australian Institute of Company Directors course.

Are you currently a Councillor? Yes.

My name is Brett Ireland and I am nominating for Councillor for the Hindmarsh Shire North Riding division in the upcoming 2020 Local Government election.

Since "migrating" to the area 7 years ago I have run a small business in the town of Jeparit and I am an active member of various clubs and groups and for the last 4 years I have worked on a farm/grain storage in the Lorquon/Netherby area.

I have been vice president of the Jeparit town committee for 6 years and have had numerous interactions with Councillors and shire staff alike.

I feel this gives me a solid grounding to become a active voice for the community.

Jeparit is the second largest town in the North Riding and hasn't had an active council representative for many years.

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Some of my key objectives would be to stop any further erosion of our towns, businesses and facilities and to promote projects which encompass rewarding existing residents, actively promoting tourism and to enhance the increase in population of our towns.

I feel that all 3 can be achieved in some cases in the one project.

As with our broad area and mix of residents, I intend to listen and acknowledge the farming community in respect to their concerns in regard to roads, grading, tree trimming and intersection vision.

I feel that as they form a large part of our rateable figure, they deserve strong representation.

I also look forward to not only forming a strong bond with my fellow north riding Councillor, but all Hindmarsh Councillors in decision making for the future of our shire.

Thank you for your consideration.

What is your vision for the municipality of Hindmarsh Shire Council?

To stop the erosion of our towns populations, businesses and facilities.

Promote projects that not only reward existing residents but enhance tourism and future increases in population.

To attract the growing number of travelers for medium to long term stays in our region by advertising all we have to offer.

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

Strong communication skills,business and budgeting acumen and an empathy to all people regardless of their social standing.

A hands on worker not afraid to roll up the sleeves to assist. A strong passion for a towns to survive and thrive.

Are you currently a Councillor? No.

I am proud to be a resident of Nhill where I have lived, worked, and raised my family.

I am committed to seeing Nhill and our farming district thrive; a community where all residents are heard and valued, where we have well-maintained roads, amenities, infrastructure and with services of a high standard.

I am dedicated to an inclusive community, caring for seniors and families, while providing opportunities for our youth.

For ten years, I have been a mentor and support for our Karen residents and will continue to advocate for Nhills migrant groups.

Volunteering is vital, and I have been involved in the Mates Mentoring, L2P Learner Driver Program, a board member for the Centre of Participation, President of the Local Learning and Employment Network, and I have fought for literacy resources and services to improve local early learning outcomes.

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As a graduate of the Wimmera Development Association, Business Leaders Program, and having experience running a successful farm machinery business, bed and breakfast, as well as part ownership of the Nhill IGA, I have a thorough understanding of the needs of rural business.

With my knowledge, passion, and enthusiasm, I have a vision to nurture local innovation and develop social and economic growth for Nhill.

Serving as a Councillor 2012-2016, including two years as Deputy Mayor, has given me a detailed understanding of local government.

During this time, I played an active role in securing permanent water for the Nhill Lake, establishing the Youth Council, and obtaining funding for the Early Years Centre.

I believe that together, we can overcome challenges and create new opportunities, develop local ideas and possibilities while retaining our heritage and rural lifestyle.

If elected, I promise everyone from the young to the elderly will be considered when using my influence and exercising my all-important vote.

What is your vision for the municipality of Hindmarsh Shire Council?

I am committed to seeing Nhill and our farming district thrive; a community where all residents are heard and valued, where we have well-maintained roads, amenities, infrastructure and services of a high standard.

I believe together, we can develop local ideas and possibilities while retaining our heritage and rural lifestyle.

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

My time spent serving on Council 2012-2016, including two years as Deputy Mayor, has given me the skills to understand the role of Councillor.

A proud resident of Nhill, a graduate of Wimmera Development Association's, Business Leaders Program, and successful local business woman, I understand the needs of rural business.

Are you currently a Councillor? No.

I am nominating for the West Ward in the upcoming Hindmarsh Shire Council elections.

I am confident that if elected, my experience and enthusiasm for our communities will see our Council continue to be a leader in local government.

Although it is the West Ward constituents that vote for this position it is critical that councillors represent the Hindmarsh Shire at all times, not only their elected Ward.

There will be changes in the make up of Council in this election due to resignations, so I believe that with my experience and knowledge of government ministers and bureaucrats will allow me to continue lobbying for additional government support.

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We are in a time of change and I will continue to look outside the square for our Council to keep up with future challenges.

Being fully aware of the tough times that our rural people are going through, with good experienced leadership at Council level, we will be able to assist our resilient community through this period.

With many of my family members living in Nhill, I have an extremely keen interest in the future of Nhill and district, and the Hindmarsh Shire.

We have to continue to improve our own way of thinking for our local areas eg. selling the strengths of our communities such as business options, clean air, low crime rates, quality of life, education, health and recreation.

I encourage everyone to vote.

I am a strong advocate of compulsory voting as I believe we live in the best country in the world and have the independent democratic process of voting.

I ask for your support in returning me for another term so I can continue to work for the people of the West Ward and Hindmarsh Shire.

What is your vision for the municipality of Hindmarsh Shire Council?

We have to continue to improve our own way of thinking for our local areas. Eg. selling the strengths of our communities such as business options, clean air, low crime rates, quality of life, education, health and recreation.

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

I have been a Councillor for 35 years serving 6 years as Shire President and Mayor.

Are you currently a Councillor? Yes.

I am an enthusiastic, curious, open and approachable first time nominee for a seat on the Hindmarsh Shire Council, driven to make a valued contribution for the community I love.

I am passionate about doing what I can to ensure Hindmarsh is a vibrant place where families want to raise their children and people dream of retiring.

Born in Nhill and educated at Nhill College, after six years away at University, I returned to make a home with my husband at Gerang Gerung.

We have a young family with four children, aged 10, 8, 6 and 2.

I have worked for 14 years in the Executive Team at West Wimmera Health Service, currently as the Executive Director of Business & Strategy. I am well versed with the needs of our community and the challenges that living in rural Victoria can present.

I am a strong advocate for equality between rural and metropolitan Victorians in governmental policy. Dedicated to being actively involved in my community, I have served on the Nhill Early Years Parent Advisory Committee, Nhill College Parent Advisory Committee, Grampians Womens Health Board, Nhill Town Committee and the Hindmarsh Shire Early Years Fundraising Committee.

My most rewarding community engagement is being a Uniting Wimmera Respite Foster Carer, providing respite for amazing families who have long term foster care placements.

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My youth, professional expertise and qualifications in Law, International Studies, Business and Health, in addition to the Australian Institute of Company Directors Course, give me a solid foundation for a role as a Councillor.

I have nominated for local government because I believe a strong council is diverse and representative of its residents.

I am ready to listen to you, provide a fresh view point and bring a new voice to important matters for the greater good of our community.

What is your vision for the municipality of Hindmarsh Shire Council?

My vision for Hindmarsh is communities that thrive in their rural setting. From economic opportunities, to recreation and lifestyle options, liveability of Hindmarsh is essential to the future of our municipality. From birth to retirement, I dream Hindmarsh can provide a place to call home for anyone who desires community.

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

I am passionate and approachable, driven to support our community to thrive. I value the wisdom of others and actively listen. Utilising these skills makes me a strong public speaker and advocate for the needs of our community. I have expertise in governance, risk, infrastructure, law, health, finance and communications.

Are you currently a Councillor? No.

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