Colac Otway Shire Council election candidates

My credentials to represent all ratepayers of the Shire are 30 years plus in local government in senior executive roles including finance, governance and town planning. Some of my fundamental roles were qualified town planner, Director of Planning, and Acting CEO. The key oversights I would provide as a councillor are ensuring that the strategic direction and plans of council (long and short-term financial plans, strategic town planning, health and wellbeing, and the Council Plan) are inclusive of all our communities now and into the future, especially the smaller ones such as Apollo Bay, rural and coastal areas. Proper oversight of the council's finance and governance requirements. Professional input into budget preparation and control. Support to other councillors in understanding of local government board management and interpretation of policy and legislation. As a resident of Apollo Bay for 7 years I have contributed to the community as Manager of the Community Bank (Bendigo Bank) for over a year and I am an active member of the golf, tennis and table tennis clubs. The difference I bring to your voting preference is years of experience in the operation of local municipalities. Vote 1 or 2 for me. Thank you.

My family moved to the Otway Shire in 1967. My wife Beverley and I were married in 1972 and we shifted to Geelong where I worked at Alcoa for 17 years as a shift foreman responsible for 85 people. I gained great experience in managing people, responsible for 85 men and was responsible for helping to introduce quality management system into that group of people. 1989 saw my family return to the Otway Shire as dairy farmers and later with our son and daughter-in-law start a farm contracting business servicing many families in our Shire. Our family has made many friendships with our kids being involved in a variety of sporting clubs. Having lived in and worked with and for a lot of people in the Shire I have gained a huge respect for business and personal friendships I have made. In standing for council, I believe I can fairly represent the people of the Colac Otway Shire. I would like to wish best of luck to my fellow candidates.

I was appointed to Council in 2023. My guiding principles are to, act on feedback, make balanced fair decisions that benefit the community, actively engaged in finding solutions for a positive way forward. I seek reelection on my record. Reelected, I will promote establishment of a community charter between Community and Council, that sets out how Council interacts with you, including, making it easy for you to contact us, listening and treating you with respect, timely responses and advice with progress on matters you raise. Encouraging recurrent financial and structural stability of our Shire by continuing to represent Council on the Audit and Risk Committee. Seek to upgrade dated sports facilities, promote equal access for all and find a home for The Colac Rovers. Plus, achieve reduced Carbon footprint with financial payback, (Bluewater electrification, Solar), planting more trees in our streets and parks. Promote COS as the place for business. I endorse state caps on rate increases. Advocate with G21 for better funding. I’ll bring 32 years skill and experience gained from Financial Planning practice, former Board Director, Colac Area Health, and Hesse rural health to Council. Vote 1 Max Arnott. maxarnottcolacotwayshire@outlook.com. Facebook @maxarnottcolacotwayshire

Colac Otway Shire is a beautiful place to live, work and play. However, we face significant challenges that need attention. The rise in vacant shops, decline in community services and shortage of affordable housing are impacting our quality of life. We must focus on supporting our youth and local businesses to strengthen our regional economy. As a dedicated community member, I will address these issues with transparency, integrity, and honesty. My background in nursing and administration has equipped me with strong leadership skills. I've served on school and sporting boards, founded the Colac Coffee Club, and I am a member of the Neighbourhood House Advisory Group. These experiences have prepared me to be an effective Councillor. Having completed council governance training, I am well-equipped to effectively contribute to our local government and drive meaningful change. I am dedicated to listening to your concerns, taking action, and ensuring your voices are heard. For a stronger, more vibrant Colac Otway Shire, Vote 1 for Cheryl Miller.

As a long-term resident with a deep commitment to the Colac Otway Shire, I'm running for Council to help make certain that our community prospers both now and in the years to come. My focus will be on enhancing local infrastructure, supporting small businesses, and advocating for the needs of our most vulnerable residents, including those who require additional support to live their best lives. This includes ensuring that our roads are safe and well-maintained, that local businesses have the resources they need to succeed, and that our community facilities are improved and accessible to all. I bring experience in community service, a strong belief in transparent governance, and a genuine desire to make sure all voices are heard in the decision-making process. If elected, I will work to improve our roads, advocate for improved community facilities, and drive initiatives that create jobs and opportunities for all residents. I'm committed to fostering a community where everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the chance to thrive. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient community, one where the needs of all residents are met, and where we can all be proud to call the Colac Otway Shire our home.

This election sees some councillors not seeking re-election, resulting in significant change. Change can be a good thing but there does need to be some continuity and experience in council. I would like the opportunity to mentor, guide and support new councillors and shape a cohesive and constructive team. If elected I intend to work to improve the perception of councillors and council. As a previous Mayor, I have demonstrated leadership and strength, representing the community at State and Federal levels whilst supporting community groups and individuals. I have read and heard much negativity and whilst council has not always got things right, we need positivity and optimism, taking advantage of opportunities, whilst facing challenges head on. I have applied common sense and practicality to all issues. Continuing my work on Kennett River and Apollo Bay projects is critical to best outcomes. Focusing on road funding, support for farmers and business, housing and community facilities including bike tracks in Colac and Birregurra, while advocating for the homeless, indigenous and multicultural communities are my priorities. I know the shire, I understand the issues and I hear the frustration. I see the opportunities, the strength and the pride. Thanks for your consideration.

As a passionate local business owner and long-time resident of Colac Otway, I’m committed to advocating for our community. Over the past five years as a hairdresser, I’ve had my ear to the ground, listening to the hopes and concerns of locals and visitors alike. These conversations have shaped my understanding of what really matters in our Shire. During my time as Vice President of the Colac Chamber of Commerce, I gained invaluable insights into the challenges small businesses face and the broader needs of our economy. I’m ready to bring that experience to council, where I’ll focus on supporting small businesses, improving infrastructure, and fostering community connection through meaningful local events. Leadership to me is about being transparent, approachable, and truly listening to the needs of everyone. I know that Colac Otway voters value practical solutions that support growth and community pride, and I’m determined to help create a future where we all thrive. Your vote will help bring fresh leadership with a focus on advocacy, transparency, and progress for our Shire. Together, we can shape a future that reflects the best of what Colac Otway has to offer. #voteonerheawigley email: rhea@sabinehairalchemy.com

We need positive change, a practical approach and a council that puts locals first. Born and raised locally, a business and family man with a track record to get the job done. Bringing leadership and experience to Council, we need a positive change in the way Council interacts with each other and the community. With the cost of living impacting us all we need to make your money count by stopping the waste and directing the spending on the things we need most. Better roads, community facilities and infrastructure. With the current Council losing its way and community satisfaction at record lows, we will rebuild the relationships with the community and offer a more transparent and accountable Council. A focus will be on more activities for our youth, working with volunteers and attracting more events and businesses for us all to enjoy. Change the perception of our Council to a positive can do team. A new Council will have a simple easy to follow plan with clear strategic direction. We don't need to waste time and money on personal ideologies and agendas. For a more efficient, effective and positive Council vote for the change we need. Vote 1 Jason Schram.

My name is Tosh-Jake Finnigan. I'm not afraid to call things as I see them, and unlike others, there’s no-one else controlling the words that come out of my mouth. I run Toshco Music in Colac, formerly ran the Ti-Tree Hotel at Warrion, and split time living between Colac and Carlisle River. If re-elected, I'll continue to push back against the excess of the council bureaucracy and fight for what our community wants. I'll keep fighting back against GORCAPA and continue supporting our coastal communities. I'll end council's ridiculous free lunch perk and put the savings back into community grants. I will always put community before the organisation. Council needs to cut waste and go back to basics. We're $5.3m in deficit, and staffing costs equal 90.2% of rate revenue. This isn't sustainable! Council shouldn't waste money on bloated and opaque external bureaucracies like the Barwon South West Climate Alliance when we're unable to fund our operations without slugging ratepayers with rate hikes every year. Focus on good roads, rubbish collection, and parks. Share the love across our small towns and rural communities. Cut red tape in planning and work together with businesses so our whole community can prosper.

What is it that our residents get for their rate money? We have excellent swimming facilities, theatre and Arts precinct, many other assets, with road maintenance, rubbish disposal, public gardens upkeep, car parking facilities and regulations, dog and cat registration, street lighting and footpaths. We had our own water supply now Barwon Water, Colac and District Hospital now Barwon Health, Colac Cemetery trust now Geelong cemetery trust, own Dairy Industry now in Heytesbury Shire and our Shire cleaning contracts gone to Sydney. A vote for me will help to keep what we have left in our Shire.

Improving the quality of life for Colac Otway Shire residents, while supporting growth and innovation for local business will underpin my tenure on council. Supporting families is crucial and I will bolster childcare services across the shire to ensure parents are supported. In addition, enhancing public transport will deliver mobility for those without private transport, making our community accessible for everyone. Prioritising effective planning and infrastructure development to simplify processes for builders and developers, helping attract investment and create vibrant community spaces for our youth. Protecting our productive agricultural land is also essential for our regions’ long-term success. Controlling costs and emphasising efficiency in council operations will be prioritised. I’ll also explore new revenue streams to reduce reliance on ratepayers and concentrate on maintaining and sustainably managing assets. I’m a farmer and scientist in Beeac, with global experience in Animal Health. I chose the Colac community as my family’s home, and I want to ensure it remains a great place to live and visit. Your voice matters. I pledge to be a councillor who listens and acts on local concerns, ensuring responsible and forward-thinking decisions for a prosperous future.

I have an unwavering commitment to our community and see so much potential for our region. I hope to support economic stability by protecting and helping access to our pristine ecosystems to promote ecotourism, support farmers in regenerative farming, encourage our thriving culture and arts communities, bring solutions to ease cost of living and housing pressures, close resource loops, protect and invest in facilities such as childcare and libraries, help streamline planning sticking points, advocate for equality and care for all, but above all be an approachable, empathetic and level headed advocate for our community so we can thrive together well into the future. Your vote is powerful

I am a truly independent and local voice for our wonderful community. I have no political affiliations, choosing to serve the community and not politicians. I have lived in Apollo Bay for 36 years. During that time, I was a member of Apollo Bay Police for 25 years. After retiring, I operated a successful tourist business along the Great Ocean Road for 6 years. I currently do part time road maintenance in and around the Colac Otway Shire for Regional Roads Victoria. I have a broad base of experience and knowledge of my community and requirements. I have a strong connection to Colac but believe the coastal and small inland communities need a strong advocate. Getting back to basics, providing what the community needs is one of my main priorities. The local sentiment is that people are tired of endless bureaucracy, planning studies and failure to listen to what the community wants. I want to help facilitate local enterprise and encourage small and large businesses whilst still mindful of protecting and enhancing the natural environment that is important to all of us. I make no promises other than I will work hard wherever possible for the benefit of our community.

Hi I’m Tina Hill, I was born in Denmark and moved to Australia over 35 years ago. I have lived in Colac over 19 years and met and married my husband who is one of 3 generations that have lived and worked in Colac. I worked at Colanda for 6 years and areas I am passionate about and I have over 25 years experience in, include disability, childcare and aged care and being a voice for those who can’t communicate their needs. I have an adult child under the NDIS who attended his schooling in Colac so I understand how the system works and empathise with families. I was secretary of the RSL as my husband and father-in-law are ex-servicemen. I’ve been homeless in my youth so I know of the importance of affordable housing and infrastructure. I currently work as an Educator and I love supporting families, advocating for them and listening to their needs. If you consider me as your local councillor I’ll do my best to support you and our community where I can. I believe every individual has a right to be heard and respected as I’m a big believer in inclusion and diversity.

I'm Pete Byrnes. I've been a regular visitor to Apollo Bay since the 1970's and owned a holiday house here since 1997. My resume includes completing a carpentry apprenticeship, working in construction, then a Bachelor of Business degree as a mature-age student. My business career includes working in hands-on and managerial roles in sales, business development and infrastructure delivery of electrical/electronic equipment for telecommunications and renewable energy. Recently semi-retired, I'm now spending much of my time in Apollo Bay. I'll bring value to Council through my business experience which will enable critical assessment of the feasibility of proposed Council projects and other activities. I'll listen to all opinions and objectively assess before making decisions and invite frank communication from Ratepayers and other stakeholders. I want Council to get back to focusing primarily on the things it is chartered to do - Roads, Rates, Rubbish, care for the elderly/infants and maternal support services, improve sporting facilities and encouraging responsible development to increase the supply of affordable housing. I'd also like to revitalise the AB Music Festival and promote social initiatives to support the mental health of farmers and isolated people. Your vote for me is a vote for stability and integrity.

My name is Zoe Hudgell and I'm an Independent candidate for the Colac Otway Shire, where I was proudly born and raised. I live on a Farm in Irrewarra with my partner Lachie, and our two boys. I have been actively involved in the business community for over 14 years by starting and developing a business in the arts and events industry, Red Door Dance and Theatre Co. Through Red Door I have had the privilege to organise many fundraising and community events such as Band Together Colac and Christmas By The Lake. Since becoming a mother, I have felt a strong commitment to creating a better future for the next generation. I want the Colac Otway Shire to be a thriving, exciting and prosperous place for not only our families and children but for our businesses, community groups and schools. If elected my promise is to always ensure actions on council reflect the true needs of the community. With your support, I have the energy, the passion and knowledge to implement and drive new projects and create a stronger and more connected council that represents transparency accountability and progress. Vote 1 Zoe Hudgell. A voice for the community.

I wish to stand for Council because this is my community and I care. This will be demonstrated through my willingness to be approachable, hard working, accountable, co-operative and honest. I will do this by listening, modelling respect and decency.

I have the privilege of being born and raised in the Colac Otway Shire and have lived in Cororooke for the past six years. Four years ago, I became the owner of the Cororooke General Store which I have continued to develop and operate as a successful community hub for the local area. I am also a mother of four and grandmother to seven. This background has provided me with the opportunity to view the operations of the Shire from a different perspective. I have experienced the need for greater recreational options to be made available for the younger people across the Colac Otway Shire. There also needs to be a focus on improved road infrastructure and general community facilities throughout the entire Shire, while ensuring this is done within the available rate revenue. My pledge is to represent the people of the Colac Otway Shire truthfully, honestly and fearlessly. I look forward to meeting more residents of the Shire to discuss your concerns for the future of all its towns, large or small. Thank you for taking the time in considering me for one of your new Colac Otway Shire councillors.