They are by far the youngest candidates in next month’s September election and this group of keen 21-year-olds are hoping their age and backgrounds will add diversity to Mid-Western Regional Council.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Group E, made up of former classmates, Alex Karavas, Jake Harding, Emily Rayner, Joseph Leotta and Shane Martin were all born and educated in the region.
“I’ve been thinking for close to two years [about running for local government], ever since web casts became available online. I thought this is something I’d be good at,” team leader Alex said.
The group said they are committed to many initiatives to grow and support the region, the first, to encourage and assist businesses to relocate into the region to increase economic growth and jobs particularly for youth.
“For sometime now we have wanted to make a difference, after all we want our future and that of all young people to be profitable, happy and secure in this beautiful region in which we live,” the group said.
With three members of the team unable to find permanent full time work in the region, Alex said the group understands the necessity for job growth.
“All people deserve to have a job and be able to buy a home and be happy without having to move away from the place and people they love.”
The team supports the establishment of entertainment and recreational businesses and facilities, particularly for the region’s youth.
They’re adverse to the subdivision of prime agricultural land for residential development and are campaigning for a reduction in farmland and business rates.
They support the establishment of a parents’ room and a regional art gallery.
“Our backgrounds vary from working in retail and hospitality, to a mine apprentice, small self employed business owner and former university students,” the group said.
“Our interests also vary from flying aircraft to playing sport, the performing arts and even poultry raising.
“We believe that the more diverse the backgrounds and ages of our councillors, the more representative their decisions will be of our community and the stronger the outcomes for everyone.”
The team said they have no vested interests.
“[We] do not own property, we have no hidden agenda, all we want is to see if we can enrich the lives of all people living in our region and get the best outcomes possible.”
The Mid-Western Regional Council ballot was drawn last week with 34 candidates to appear on the election ballot including five groups.
The Mid-Western Region Council election will be held on Saturday, September 10.
To check your enrolment visit www.votensw.info/
