BARHAM dairy farmer, Alan Mathers has been elected as Wakool Shire Council’s Ward C councillor.
Cr Mathers, who operates a 300-cow dairy farm on the outskirts of the township, was victorious against fellow candidate Christine Dartnell last Saturday.
He will join fellow Ward C councillor and mayor, Cr Neil Gorey.
Cr Mathers’ election follows that of Ward B councillor, David Landini, who was elected unopposed in early February.
The by-elections were held after Anthony Jackson and Colin Membrey both resigned from council last December.
Cr Gorey congratulated Cr Mathers, adding that the council could now represent the community to its fullest.
“Council’s decision to go ahead with the by-election for these wards was about ensuring communities across the Shire were represented by a council made up of all six elected representatives,” Cr Gorey said.
“Ensuring that this representation was in place was seen as critical by the council, particularly as council and the community await the Minster for Local Government’s response to Wakool Shire’s submission regarding the proposed merger with Murray Shire Council.
“I congratulate Cr Mathers on his election to council and together with my fellow councillors, look forward to working with him.”
Cr Mathers said that it was very pleasing to receive strong community support at the election.
“I’m looking forward to being part of the team to work within council in its attempt to fend off the proposed merger.
“I think my 30 years of leadership experience representing farmers in the dairy industry will enable me to help council build a stronger relationship
with the community.”
He said that it was critical that the community steps up and starts to take more interest and control of local government and said that council must encourage our communities to get involved.
Cr Mathers will attend his first council meeting next Wednesday.
