– Introduce yourself and why you have decided to stand for council.
My name is Louie Zaffina, I am 56 years old and married to my wife Kylie. Together we have raised five children and have 8 grandchildren.
I have lived in Euston for my entire life and am a second-generation table grape grower and motor mechanic by trade.
I have decided to stand for council after developing a passion for my community, its needs and wellbeing.
If I am elected my intention is to make a difference in my time there, for better outcomes for the entire shire.
– Have you had any past experience in local government?
Since the Balranald Shire Council has been under administration, I have been an active member of the Euston Progressive Advisory Committee where we have successfully achieved many outcomes for projects.
I have also had experience in lobbying for government grants for other projects in the private sector.
– If elected, what issues do you hope to address and prioritise during your time at council?
The citizens of the entire Balranald Shire, I believe, have not been properly represented in the past and have missed out on many opportunities. My number one priority is to help develop a strong and healthy functioning council with honesty and integrity to deliver better and positive outcomes for the entire shire, no matter where you live.
– In what ways would you like to improve the municipality?
. I believe the advisory Committees that have been set up during the administration period should be continued as it is a great representation of the needs that future councillors may not be aware of.
. We need to attracted people to want to live in our shire. This includes doctors, which is an important issue that is happening at the moment.
. Encourage and assist businesses to create jobs especially for young people to want to live here
. Address the accommodation shortage for those seeking work here, and
. Better and safer roads, especially lobbying both state and federal governments for overtaking lanes on the Sturt Highway.
. Keep council honest and stop rates rising.
