Life-long Ararat resident William 'Bill' Waterston is always ready to give back to the community that has given him so much.
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The retiree has put his hand up to become one of seven Ararat Rural City Councillors at this month's local government election.
"I have been asked by a lot of people to run for council, but my job had a lot of shift work and weekends, so I didn't have the time. Now that I am retired, I feel I should step up," Mr Waterston said.
A social worker with DHSS for more than 30 years, Mr Waterston devoted his career to working in the mental health and disability sectors.
Outside of work, Mr Waterston is known for his fundraising efforts to redevelop Ararat's skatepark.
"From little things big things grow," Mr Waterston joked.
"We started raising money for the skate park 15 years ago; you wouldn't recognise it now."
For his 15 years of dedication, the skatepark bears Mr Waterston's name.
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The Ararat native said the antiquated rates system is one of his priorities as a prospective councillor.
"Rates need to be brought into line," Mr Waterston said.
"We also need to attract more gas providers to Ararat; we need a more competitive and fairer gas service.
"The West Highway duplication needs to happen; the sooner it is done, the sooner Ararat will benefit.
"Lastly, Green Hill Lake is set up beautifully, and the housing development will benefit everyone in every industry.
"Ararat is growing and the previous councillors set us up perfectly."
Mr Waterston believes his friendly personality and empathy will make him an ideal candidate for local government.
"I'm willing to listen and talk to everyone," he said.
"Being a councillor is a tough gig, but I'm up for it."
ELECTION 2020: KEY INFORMATION
Voting in local council elections in Victoria this October will be by post.
We will post ballot packs to enrolled voters from 6 to 8 October.
The ballot pack will contain:
- a ballot paper attached to statements and photographs lodged by the candidates in your council or ward
- a ballot paper envelope with a flap
- voting instructions
- a reply-paid envelope.
If you will be away from your address
You will be able to request to have your ballot pack sent to a different address if:
- you will be away when ballot packs are mailed (after Tuesday 6 October 2020 )or
- your mailing address will change after the close of rolls (Friday 28 August 2020).
Details on how to request a replacement ballot pack will be available on this website from 6 October.
Can't receive mail?
If you are overseas and will not be able to receive mail while you are away, you can notify the VEC by completing an 'Away from Victoria' notification form at and keep evidence of your trip online.
- Source: VEC
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