RESIDENTS in the Greater Wakool Ward of Murray River Council (MRC) will go back to the polls on February 26 for the by-election.
The by-election will be held to fill the two vacant seats in Greater Murray and Greater Wakool Wards, after seven councillors were elected unopposed at the December 4 local government election.
The newly-elected council is represented by Crs Ann Crowe and Neil Gorey in the Greater Wakool Ward, Crs Frank Crawley, Nikki Cohen and Chris Bilkey in Moama Ward and Crs Thomas Weyrich and Kron Nicholas in the Greater Murray Ward.
Moama Ward residents do not need to vote as all three seats were filled in the December election.
Residents who are unsure of their wards can check their enrolment status on the Australian Electoral Commission website.
While locals were encouraged to mark their diaries for election day, MRC Mayor Chris Bilkey also encouraged local residents to consider nominating.
“Local government is the area where people with a strong sense of community can really make an impact,” he said.
“Councillors represent the needs, wants and aspirations of their local community and make important decisions on behalf of their residents.”
“We’ve got a great group of councillors that were elected in December, so I’d certainly encourage anyone passionate about what happens in our area or wanting to make a positive impact on decision-making processes to nominate.”
Candidate nominations open on Monday, January 17 and close Thursday, January 27 at 12 noon.
“My plea is we desperately need representation,” Cr Bilkey said.
“The Greater Murray and Wakool wards are geographically mostly comprised of agriculture area, yet we don’t have a single farmer, for example, on council.
“I would love to see some representation from the agriculture economy – farmers and people who support farmers – because agriculture is still the biggest contributor to our economy.
“It’s crazy for us to have a council comprised of people who don’t represent that industry.
“I’m encouraging people involved in that area, particularly young people, women as well, to get on board and commit some time to this.”
Cr Bilkey said he was confident candidates would be sought.
“I know of four already who are standing, two in each of the wards,” he said.
“I would encourage any others who would want to make a three-way content to put their hands up as well.”
Cr Bilkey said there were opportunities for growth along the river and through the Greater Wakool.
“All these places have enormous potential to grow and yet we don’t have someone who is committed to the ag industry through that area,” he said.
“Let’s get on board, we would love to see you.”
