Moorabool Shire Council election candidates

I have lived in the Moorabool Shire for 34 years and my children have grown up here. I am an ex serviceman and been in business for over 40 years, so I understand budgets and balance sheets. I have been on Council for 12 years and served as Mayor on 4 occasions, I don't do vitue signalling, nor patronising, but I am a strong advovate for common sense. I believe the three levels of Government are addicted to taxes and charges, whilst ignoring fairness and equity, its imperative that the Rural sector continues to fight for its fair share. The new non Ward structure presents a number of challenges and I believe its important that we have a solid mix of new Councillors and experienced Councillors so that the new Council can hit the ground running after the election. State and Federal infrastructure funding is getting tighter in the Rural Sector, Our community needs to demand its fair share from its State and Federal representatives . I respectfully put myself forward as a candidate with a platform of common sense and sound economic management. Councillors work for the people not Council.

Having volunteered and worked within the community and business sector for 35 years I am passionate about social justice and the issues facing residents particularly families, those most vulnerable and small business. My focus is our roads that desperately need attention and investment and maintain the rate cap. I will advocate to increase services in our hospital without job losses and promote and encourage small business in the Shire and create economic opportunities. We urgently need a swimming pool that is beneficial to all from babies to seniors for pain relief. We can do better for the youth, families and aging within our community, including community groups. I have a Diploma in Financial Counselling, Graduate Diploma in Family Dispute Resolution and previously a director of a small family business. I am President of the Bacchus Marsh RSL and a Justice of the Peace. I have a history of advocacy for change this can be demonstrated in the two books I have coauthored Money Management for Women and Bullying in the Workplace. If elected I will work collaboratively to achieve best possible outcomes for residents and the community. If you have concerns, please call or text me on 0418 542 621.

As a former Councillor, I recognize the crucial role of strategic planning, sound financial management, and effective government lobbying to secure our community’s fair share of funding. During my term, I contributed to significant projects such as the MARC Stadium, BMRRR, Halletts Way extension, and Aqualink. Yet, my proudest achievements include delivering the Bald Hill Activation Plan, which features the 1000+ Steps; the All-Abilities Trail in Telford Park; Studio 22 (youth space); live-streaming of council meetings for greater transparency; the All-Abilities Playground in Maddingley; and the reduction of the speed limit on Main Street for safety. Additionally, I played a key role in bringing VicRoads back to address issues with their projects in our shire. Despite these successes, important work remains. We need to regain momentum in lobbying for critical projects like the truck-bypass and funding for an indoor swimming pool. It is essential that we secure our fair share of funding to address our deteriorating road network, hold the government accountable for their commitments to road upgrades, and ensure that planning remains sensible and effective. Once again, I ask for your vote. I promise that I will not stop being an effective and reliable representative. Thank-you for your support

My name is Steven Venditti-Taylor. I am standing as a candidate for the following reasons 1. Ratepayers money being wasted 2. Basic council tasks being done at less than a satisfactory level 3. to work with the public and consult for best outcomes 4. working with sporting clubs and listening to what “ they need “ 5. Ensuring parks and roads, round about and all assets are constantly maintained at an acceptable level 6. Working with state and federal government for best outcomes in fixing roads and infrastructure. Which at the moment a lot are at a poor level 7. work with ceo to ensure all general public disputes are resolved to an acceptable level with best results for not just developers and construction. 8. to ensure the general public is fully informed with major changes to policy and fully transparent 9. to ensure money spent by council in tough times with cost of living pressures is essential and not just luxury items 10.. making sure developments are not damaging or polluting local rivers , residents houses, roads or in any way. A vote for me is a vote for all people right across moorabool not just construction and developers.

My candidacy represents a commitment to integrity, inclusivity and proactive leadership, qualities that I believe are crucial for fostering a vibrant and responsive local government. I have a proven track record advocating for community interests and ensuring important issues are brought to light and appropriately addressed. My passion for community service, and willingness to tackle difficult topics, demonstrate my readiness to take on the responsibilities of a Councillor. I have engaged with diverse Moorabool Shire stakeholders and articulated complex issues clearly and effectively. I always listen attentively, to firstly, understand and then represent their interests. Throughout my career as Editor of the Moorabool News, my extensive experience and dedication to community issues has been underpinned with my deep commitment to properly investigating and voicing local concerns. Electing me will provide you with a voice - to ensure the needs and aspirations of Moorabool Shire residents are heard and actioned, each and every day. Your Voice - Vote 1 Helen Tatchell

My name is Moira Berry - I have lived in Moorabool Shire, for 25 years with my partner Wayne. Raised two daughters who live in Moorabool and have three grand children who attend school in our great Shire. I am a member of a local business group, and a board member of a local school for over 20 years. If you vote for me, I will continue to advocate for: 1. Indoor Pool, 2. Vital Infrastructure and Services for our Growing Towns, 3. Protection of Heritage, Environment and Community Safety, 4. Youth, Families, Elderly and those with a Disability, 5. Improved Roads and 6. Health and Well being of our community. In the past four years I have prided myself on listening to the community and actively advocating on your behalf. As one of the fastest growing Shires in Victoria it is vital that I see infrastructure, roads, services, community centers, sports arenas and more built to provide the community with the facilities you need now. Appropriately we need to protect agriculture, farming and maintain the unique character of our towns whilst this growth is occurring. You deserve the best, let me be Your Voice for Moorabool, Vote 1 Moira Berry

I have lived in Darley for the last 23 years and although now retired, have been an active member of the community through my work at Apple FM and the Mambourin an Annecto Disability groups for the last 15 years . Currently President of Apple and an on air presenter. We also have a community programm for up coming events The station also does outside broadcasts for special events including the ANZAC Day Services , Remembrance Day, and community festivals. We also support Bacchus Marsh Fire Brigade, Local Football and other local sporting events for residents that cant attend locallly. I also organise Christmas and Easter events for the disabled , and organise Rock and Roll dances for the community, Events well attended. I have a strong interest in whats happening in the community and believe as a member of Council I will be able to represent the communities views with passion and committment.

My name is Tim Hawthorne, I am a Maddingley local living with my two indoor cats, Snape and Draco. I have lived in the shire for the past 10 years and worked as a CPA accountant in the local area for 9 years. If elected, I would like to improve the quality of local roads and footpaths, advocate for increased infrastructure before any new housing is approved, ban 1080 poison within Moorabool LGA, provide grants to wildlife carers and rescuers, improve the water quality and sediment issue of the Werribee River, work to increase tourism, continue to support our successful sporting teams, work with local business and attract new businesses to the shire, and work with both federal and state governments to fund the Bacchus Marsh indoor pool.

My name is Rod Ward, and I have had the privilege of being an East Moorabool Councillor for the past 4 years, including 1 year as Mayor. I am contesting this election as whilst I believe progress has been made over the past 4 years, there is still much to do. MSC attracted record State & Federal funding over the past 4 years, and investment in capital infrastructure for new & improved community facilities has grown by 600% since 2018 and exceeded $60m in 2032/24. Key highlights include the Moorabool Indoor Stadium, West Maddingley Early Years Hub, Ballan Scouts Hall, Ballan Sports & Community Pavilion, Darley Sports & Community Pavilion, improved skate parks & playgrounds, etc. Key priorities moving forward will be increased funding for road improvements including the BM Eastern Link, the delivery of the Moorabool Indoor Aquatic Centre, BM Bowls Facility, Ballan Library & Community Centre, Oval & facility upgrades at Wallace, Gordon & Dunnstown. The establishment of a new BM Civic Centre to include a performing Arts Centre, Youth Centre, Art Gallery is a priority, as is a 2nd public Secondary School in Darley, along with new & improved walking & cycling trails. Let's continue the progress !

I am John Keogh, [Read more www.johnkeogh.net.au] a Civil Engineer, a corporate member of the Institution of Engineers Australia and also hold a post grad-diploma in Municipal Engineering and management. With over 35 years experience, ranging from rural Shires to large metropolitan Cities. I have also worked as a senior engineer in an international consultancy together with managing my own engineering consultancy for 5 years. I am an independent candidate and have been a Pentland-Hills ratepayer for 30 years, a former secretary and member of the Pentland-Hills Landcare Group and former Chair of the Moorabool Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee. If elected I will; [1] Advocate to lower the Rate burden. [2] Solve the traffic chaos in Bacchus Marsh. [3] Advocate for the heated swimming pool completion. [4]Advocate to underground the 500Kv transmission line. [5] Ensure all small towns/villages are included in decision making. [6]Take a lead role to create youth employment. [7] Ensure all rural roads are properly maintained. [8] Supply 2 tip passes to all ratepayers annually. [9] Ensure all Council policies adhere to a climate change environment. [10] Advocate for splash parks in Gordon and Bacchus Marsh. [11] Ensure all urban streets are swept regularly.

Hello I am Tom Sullivan and I am standing for Council in Moorabool Shire, I have been a long standing councillor representing West Moorabool Ward. I have been a strong advocate for all the communities not just in my Ward but for communities across the Shire. Changes by the VEC, supported by the Victorian Government have abolished the previous ward structure, therefore in this year's election nine councillors will be directly elected from across the whole Shire. In the first two years of the current four-year term of council, it was my honour to be Mayor representing the whole Shire. I believe I have a good understanding of the needs of the diverse communities that make up Moorabool Shire. I have always sought to be fair and to ensure that everyone and every community in Moorabool receives a fair go. With your support I hope to continue to serve the people and communities of Moorabool. Looking forward to your support. Regards Tom Sullivan. Please vote Tom Sullivan 1.

As a proud Bacchus Marsh resident and passionate advocate for our local community, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing us within the broader Moorabool Shire. Our community deserves a council that not only listens but acts decisively to improve our quality of life and ensure the delivery of council's core responsibilities. I am committed to delivering tangible results—whether it's upgrading vital infrastructure, supporting small businesses, or expanding opportunities for families, youth, and seniors. Traffic congestion, insufficient services, and underfunded community programs hold us back from reaching our full potential. I will push for sustainable growth that protects our town’s charm while embracing innovation. With a focus on practical solutions and responsible leadership, I will champion local initiatives that strengthen our community and enhance access to sports, education, and family-friendly activities. If elected, I will work tirelessly to make Moorabool Shire a place where every resident feels heard, valued, and empowered. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected future for Moorabool Shire. Your vote is the first step toward real change.

A mother of two, I have been involved in community groups for a long time and enjoy working with people to achieve goals. Nothing is achieved by individuals and I will work with all councillors to achieve great outcomes for the community. Whilst I cannot guarantee we won’t have rate rises, I will work to ensure that Moorabool’s spending is justified, not waisted and provides the best value for money. Like community groups CouncIl has to be accountable for spending and needs to do what we can afford, especially with the cost of living crises. One of the key issues I see for Moorabool is growth and whilst government policy will increase growth in Moorabool I will strive to ensure that new growth is managed and done in a manner that preserves the rural attributes of our shire and has minimal impact on current residents. Our roads are in poor shape and Moorabool needs to improve all our rural roads both sealed and unsealed and along with Moorabool Shire roads many of the connector roads have been neglected by state government and I will advocate on behalf of the Shire to get improved roads such as western highway.

Over the past four years, I’ve proudly served our community with dedication and purpose. Honesty, transparency, and fairness have always been at the core of my approach as a Councillor and during my time as Mayor in 2024. I’m proud to have led major infrastructure projects that have enhanced and enriched our community. Proud of our Council's professionalism and our collective focus on delivering real results, without the distraction of politics. While focusing on enhancing services for our ratepayers, strengthening essential infrastructure, driving tourism and economic development, I remain committed to preserving the unique character of our diverse townships and landscapes. Growth should complement, not compromise our local identity. A rewarding aspect of my role is witnessing the power of community involvement in decision-making. When we work together, we achieve outcomes that benefit all. As a farmer, business owner, parent, and wife, I understand our community's challenges from multiple perspectives. I’m approachable, flexible with my time, and dedicated to directing additional resources towards enhancing our roads, footpaths, public facilities, planning controls and addressing all community needs within our controls. With experience, energy and enthusiasm, I’m eager to serve our community, shaping a brighter future for our region. Thank you.

I want to begin by expressing my gratitude to the Moorabool community for considering my nomination to the local council. As a lifelong resident born at Bacchus Marsh Hospital, I have had the unique opportunity to witness the growth and development of Moorabool Shire over the past 33 years. If elected, I would bring a wealth of community experience, including my volunteer work with the CFA and our local Scouting Group. I have also co-organized charity events like the Marsh Monster Mash, which supported various community groups each year, and have volunteered as Santa to provide an encounter experience and presents to disadvantaged families. In my youth, I was honored with a Community Service of the Year award from Moorabool Shire for my contributions to the Youth Transport Forum. My goals on the council would be to ensure thoughtful development of our Shire in response to population growth and density, advocate for a truck bypass for Bacchus Marsh to alleviate traffic congestion, secure increased funding or resources for our suffering road maintenance, and collaborate with the community to shape our town’s growth in a way that aligns with our collective vision rather than the interests of big business.