Pyrenees Shire Council election candidates

My name is Rebecca Wardlaw. I have lived and worked in Avoca and district for 30 years. Currently I own and run The Avoca LPO which I plan to do for many years to come. A woman of the land; I have a never give up attitude and a hard working ethic. Well known in the Community where I have helped as a volunteer at many events over the years. I am not afraid to stand up and be strong if called upon. If you vote for me, my priorities will be: 1. Childcare 2. Healthcare 3. Farming and Farmers 4. Infrastructure & Services in Avoca and surrounds. If you are looking for a fresh approach in Avoca Ward please consider me as your new candidate.

Hello my name is Ron Eason and I am standing for election to the Pyrenees Shire Council in the Avoca Ward. I have represented the shire as Councilor and Mayor during my time on Council and have found it an honor to represent my fellow residents. My ability to help residents in need and guide them through the local council processes is what has been the reason for being on council. Representing the Pyrenees Shire in Government circles and making contacts to enable me to help our residents, allows residents to complete valuable projects for their lives. It is important to bring tourist and visitors to our shire and I will continue to support this as a major benefit to our community. If elected I will continue to represent the views of my community and shire. The work of the shire to maintain financial sustainability and working for their benefit, will be my aim in the next term as it has been in the past. It will be an honor again to represent you and the Pyrenees shire. If you wish to contact me please call on 0407503326 or email on easonrj@gmail.com.

Hi My name is Paul Callanan My mission if elected to the Beaufort Ward would be to encourage more people to stand for council. As we progress and increase the population of Beaufort it is time for better planning and ensure facilities are provided for such expansion not only for tourists but residents as well. I will be your representation to council for your issues. Weather you have a Business or live in Beaufort I believe we can lift the experience for all in seeing any plans for future. I feel being a Beaufort Ward Councilor would not stop there if you need to contact me for something confidently I would work hard for you such as mental health local transport for those who find it hard to get out and about footpath and roads .

My name is Damian Ferrari, I am seeking to be reelected to the Beaufort Ward. I have been your Beaufort Ward councilor for the previous 6 years. I am asking for your vote in the upcoming elections to continue to represent you, the Beaufort Ward citizens in a strong and fair way. I am seeking reelection to ensure: That Beaufort is strongly represented and that we receive our share of funding and progressive works in a fair and equitable manner; There is a high level of accountability for individuals, process, fiscal expenditure and contractors; That community consultation and communication is significantly improved, and that the community is informed and included in decision making; That I continue to be a strong advocate to State and Federal Government in securing funding and assistance during emergencies; That all in our community are fairly represented, including but not restricted to youth, the elderly and ageing and those that may feel at disadvantage. During my previous terms there has been a lot achieved and I would like to continue on that journey. In these times a strong and honest candidate is required to represent you. I ask for your vote this election

Four decades of living, working & raising four children on Dja Dja Wurrung country in Evansford, has deeply connected me, to this place. Thus, I am truly committed to developing sustainable, life enhancing, land, water, energy, health, educational & housing opportunities for all. Especially, in creating Arts, Community and Social Housing projects, in tandem with each of our small towns. Creative Housing projects, that'll not only attract travellers and new residents, but enable us to build upon our preparedness for Climate Change and love of our vast, natural landscapes & heritage, with our First Nations & Migrant Communities. How, you may ask ? If elected, I will meet in a different De Cameron town, each month. Why ? To listen to your needs, concerns & interests ; To further co-facilitate your Strengths, Goals, Visions & Emergency Plans ; To work with you, on how we can best develop clear, step by step, Reflective Action Processes, to achieving these. Then utilising these and my extensive conflict resolution & principled negotiation skills, I will lobby for Council to ensure Federal & State Governments listen, fund and implement our Local Goals & Visions, with us all; Let's rise above recent disasters, to forge new futures together !

I live near Lexton with my husband Simon. I am a proud mother of three adult children William, Sophie and Harry. We moved permanently to the Pyrenees district, after having enjoyed holidays at our Moonambel getaway. We discovered this spectacular region of Victoria! My previous career as Head of Physical Education/Health at The Geelong College, has given me skills of management, communication and efficiency. Over the last 9 years, I have worked hard to create a successful events/tourism business, here at Mount Mitchell Estate. Thousands of visitors have enjoyed our property's history and beauty, while either experiencing tours, staying in our accommodation or attending a spectacular event on site. My life is busy! The property is a full-time job. I am a gardener (qualified horticulturalist), a renovator, an event, accommodation and maintenance manager. I am immersed in our local community. I am President of the Waubra's CWA. I'm a passionate volunteer at the Waubra Football/Netball Club. I support local initiatives and am proactive in making things happen. Simon and I were instrumental in bringing The Springs Hotel back to life. I am looking forward to creating a council, residents can be proud of. Greater accountability, more commonsense, efficiency and respect.

The Shire is a remarkable place to live and work, yet we face pressing challenges that demand immediate action. The escalating cost of living and inflation are impacting every household. We are grappling with a green drought, heightened disaster risks, and the broader effects of climate change. Our small towns are experiencing troubling population declines. We must bolster our local economy by supporting small businesses, farms, and tourism to ensure our towns flourish, not flounder. I am dedicated to championing robust community services, enhancing infrastructure, and improving the resilience of our towns and businesses. My extensive background in public policy, advocacy, and community resilience across sectors has equipped me with the leadership skills and connections necessary to drive meaningful change. I actively contribute to multiple community groups, chair the Pyrenees Community House, and serve as a firefighter and wildlife rescuer. These roles have honed my ability to serve effectively as a Councillor. With a certificate in local government and nearing completion of my board director certification, I am poised to make an impact on our council for you. I am committed to listening to your concerns, acting with integrity, and ensuring every voice is heard. Vote 1 Fiona Williamson. www.fionawilliamson.com

The natural beauty of the Pyrenees, its world-class wines, historic towns and strong agricultural base has drawn me to this region for decades. Now as a resident and investor, I want to support local businesses and communities with the services and infrastructure they need. I believe in sustainable development that protects the region's natural assets, and grows job opportunities for young and old alike. Services that support older residents to live with dignity, security and independence. And Infrastructure that keeps communities thriving and connected: roads, digital connectivity, water to name a few! I've worked in areas of real importance to local communities - employment, mental health, public health, business development. I understand government and I've experienced the disparities between urban and regional areas. I believe that by working together, we can achieve more. I will listen to, and advocate for, local communities so that all levels of government understand the priorities of the people, the businesses and the communities in the Pyrenees.

I am an active community person in the area, through the Waubra Football Club, Landcare and the community owned Post Office at Lexton. I have worked hard to listen and respond to matters in the Ercildoune ward over these last four years and wish to continue that work in the next term of Council. As for many in our community, funds are tight at Council too. I have worked hard to increase the funds we receive from State and Federal Government. This new money will support more road repairs in the next term of Council. I will continue working to secure further funds to improve the quality of recreation facilities in our communities as well. Our area can accommodate more population growth and getting more people and houses remains a key priority for me.

I, Simon Tol will bring a strong voice to The Pyrenees Shire. I have been self-employed for most of my working career, and I know what is required to run a successful business. My family and I live on a farm between Waubra and Lexton. I am passionate about the region and believe it has amazing potential. I have been heavily involved within the Waubra community. I have been President of the Waubra Football/Netball Club for nearly 10 years, I am the Chairman of the Waubra Community Fund and a committee member for the Waubra Hub; all of which are voluntary positions. I also enjoy playing lawn bowls for Waubra. I was instrumental in forming a community-based syndicate to purchase and reopen The Springs Hotel in Waubra. This has bought a new lease of life to the community as well as creating employment for many locals. I will strive to improve outcomes for the community. It is time for some new ideas, a greater vision for the future and a fresh approach to getting things done. There needs to be greater transparency and accountability of council actions and expenditures. Our rate payers need "bang for their buck!".

As a born and bred resident of Mt Emu Ward I am passionate about our ward and its community. I have had the privilege of serving and representing the residents of the Mt Emu ward over previous terms and to be Mayor twice. My husband Bernard, our children and I run a mixed farming and agri-tourism property at Mt Emu. I work in tertiary education and am a Ph.D. in Education student. I support many community groups including: sporting, youth events, charity groups, progress associations, hall committees, land-use and emergency service groups across the Mt Emu ward. I have served on the Pyrenees Municipal Emergency Management committee for many years now and am passionate about providing good governance in all areas of council. I have strongly advocated for projects for our area including our sealed and unsealed road network; bridgework; roadside maintenance; community care services; Snake Valley township planning: footpath network, amenity improvements, improved recreational activities and facilities; waste/recycling facilities; support for farmers, families and small business; telecommunications; fair rates and improved council responses to residents. I want to hear you and advocate on your behalf to improve the liveability, safety and prosperity for all people of Mt Emu ward.

I grew up and went to primary school in Snake Valley. After secondary school, I moved to Melbourne to study computer science and came back home to start my career at Fed Uni’s Centre for e-Research and Digital Innovation. My wife and I established our Murray Grey Stud in the Valley, where I also run Communiti Labs, a groundbreaking community engagement platform empowering organisations to interact with their communities. During the black summer bushfires, I established a charity, the Helping Group. Helping Group took off as people across Australia put their hand up to provide accommodation for families, pets and livestock seeking refuge during their worst times. This experience strengthened my passion for rural communities and supporting them to grow and prosper. Getting the best outcomes for communities and local businesses means listening to and understanding their needs and the strategic and practical challenges they face. It also means working with our neighbours, state and federal government, business, and the not-for-profit sectors to find sustainable solutions that deliver the outcomes our communities need. My commitment to strong advocacy, partnerships and transparent decision making, combined with a focus on getting the job done, will help me to deliver for the community.