Council
19 September, 2024
Candidates names in the frame
Veteran councillor Ron Ismay at the last minute decided to again represent Hindmarsh Shire, despite earlier planning to retire from local politics.
“I wasn't going to stand again, but there was a vacancy to be filled,” Mr Ismay said.
“Maybe I am a guts for punishment, but the next few years are going to be tough enough with the lack of funding, and by-elections are costly.
“Monica Revell is doing an absolutely amazing job as CEO, and I’m keen to see where our new councillors will take us.”
Rose Barker is also set for one of the two West Ward seats.
"New HSC councillors will mean embracing changes that will leverage fresh perspectives, along with the leadership of Monica Revell and other new staff at the council,” Ms Barker said.
“By focusing on transparent communication, proactive problem-solving, and community involvement, we can create a more engaged and supportive environment in Nhill.”
Mr Ismay and Ms Barker will both be elected unopposed, meaning registered voters in West Ward will not be required to vote.
Dimboola Imaginarium owner Chan Uoy is one of three candidates vying for the two available spots in East Ward.
He will be joined by James Barry - another of the six newcomers - to contest East Ward against veteran councillor Debra Nelson.
“I am excited by the potential of the Hindmarsh Shire Council to bring a new era of prosperity to the region,” Mr Uoy said.
“I firmly believe that tourism will boost the local economy and make the region drought-resilient.
“I want to contribute towards the shire's positive evolution.”
Mr Barry, 53, a contractor from Gerang Gerung, said he had spare time to give back to the community and "hopefully I will have some good input".
Rainbow tradesman Roger Aitken, police officer Tony Clark and Elizabeth Chivell will be contesting the municipality's North Ward.
Mr Aitken said he was already a member of many local community groups and it “seemed logical” to stand for council.
“It is hard to find someone to put their hand up,” he said.
“I've been asked several times over the years, and it seems logical to do it.”
Ms Chivell, a former North Ward councillor who lives in Jeparit, was unavailable for comment.
Nominations were subject to confirmation by the VEC, with ballot draws held on Wednesday September 18.
- WITH SAMANTHA SMITH