Well, local government elections are under way in the Wimmera/Mallee, and proving only slightly less exciting than the Doggies’ inexorable march towards their second flag.
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One of the great things about council elections is that they force renewal on to councils in terms of ideas, styles and cultures. This election, my contribution to renewal comes in the form of saying goodbye and not standing again.
This isn’t the primary reason I’m hanging up the boots, but after eight years as a councillor, I definitely take comfort in knowing that the Dunmunkle ward of the Yarriambiack Shire will see at least one new face and the opportunity that this brings. Good luck and congratulations to all candidates for being brave enough to have a go.
Unfortunately, we operate under a caretaker policy during the election, so as much as I’d like to, I can’t use this column to make any wild announcements.
Instead, I’m going to be slightly self indulgent and say a few thank yous.
Firstly, to the hard working community groups across the shire who, for want of a better description, make stuff happen.
Also, my fellow councillors, the Yarriambiack Shire CEO and staff, with whom I like to think I’ve shared a truly positive culture of respect and goodwill.
The people of the Yarriambiack Shire and specifically the Dunmunkle ward, always passionate, always reasonable.
Our neighbouring shires, with whom we share many very productive partnerships.
My father for accommodating my frequent absences from the farm, and last but not least, my family for their support and for happily coming along on the strange and wild ride that is local politics.
Being a councillor has its challenges, but I’ve always enjoyed the collaborations and sharing in others successes.
I have always taken great pleasure and pride in the opportunities this role has brought to “fly the flag” as an advocate for the people of this region, for whom I have the utmost respect for.
It’s going to be a big weekend for the Dogs, and a big weekend in Murtoa.
Rock Out For Rare on Friday in Brim promises to be huge and may play host to a little surprise.
I’ll see you all out and about. Thanks for having me.
Cr Ray Kingston is mayor of Yarriambiack Shire.
