A BARHAM dairy farmer with a can-do attitude and a dedicated volunteer have nominated as candidates for this month’s Wakool Shire Council Ward C by-election.
Either Alan Mathers or Christine Dartnell, respectively, will be elected and represent the ward, which includes the township of Barham and along East Barham Road, with current councillor and mayor, Cr Neil Gorey.
The position was made vacant after Colin Membrey resigned from council last December.
The by-election will be held on Saturday, April 9, with voting to take place from 8am to 6pm at the Barham Community Centre, 15 Murray Street.
Mr Mathers, a 300-cow dairy farmer on the outskirts of Barham, said his underlying reason for nominating stemmed after setting up a ratepayer and residents group in the wake of the proposed merger between Wakool and Murray shires.
“Clearly there was instability within council, so I wanted to see the community be given a voice and make a difference,” he said.
“I believe I can work to help unify and listen effectively to the community.”
Mr Mathers said there had been a breakdown in communication between ratepayers, residents and council.
“I will bring ideas to the table, connect groups and mentor individuals to become leaders.
“I hold a firm belief that ratepayers and residents should take a proactive role in making council more accountable.
Mr Mathers is married with two daughters.
His opponent, Ms Dartnell said she would advocate for business development if elected.
“I really want to promote business opportunities and tourism in our town,” she said.
“Being on multiple community committees and living in town itself has me hearing what people want council to do.”
Ms Dartnell is involved with Barham Landcare and the Barham sub-branch of the Returned and Services League. She is also on the board of cluBarham and Murray Haven Home.
“I moved from Adelaide about eight years ago after visiting my sister here and just decided to stay,” she said.
“I enjoy helping and contributing to the community. Successfully receiving a grant that I submitted to construct the Koondrook/Barham Men’s Shed was a big delight.”
Mrs Dartnell enjoys propagating her garden and selling off-cuts and plants at farmers’ markets.
For early voters, pre-poll voting will be available at the Barham Community Centre today, as well as from Monday to Thursday from 9am to 5pm.
The pre-poll booth will be open on Friday, April 8 from 9am to 6pm.
