05 JUNE 2024 | ISSUE 549 | FREE
GOULBURN RIVER & RANGES
Local Community Gathers for 'Your Council, Your Future' Conversation In an engaging and constructive community gathering, over 70 members came together for the 'Your Council, Your Future... A Community Conversation' at the Nagambie Brewery and Distillery on May 21st. This event, organised by Go Nagambie and the Euroa Chamber of Business and Commerce Committees, sought to provide a comprehensive understanding of the positive aspects of holding an elected council position and to offer valuable insights for prospective candidates in the upcoming local government elections. The evening commenced with a warm welcome from John Beresford, a committee member of Go Nagambie, as he expressed unwavering support for the restoration of effective local governance within the Strathbogie Shire. Delving into the proceedings, the event featured Ian Coutts, an experienced Public Affairs Communications Manager, who skillfully guided the conversations. Additionally, the Greater Shepparton City Council Mayor, Shane Sali, shared invaluable perspectives on the roles and responsibilities of council members. The spirited discussions that ensued centred on exploring the
region's opportunities and challenges, emphasising the pivotal role of community members in representing the electorate's interests during the upcoming council term. Participants passionately deliberated the importance of effective decisionmaking, representation in local governance, and the imperative to strike a balance between economic development and environmental conservation through robust community engagement and the establishment of clear, measurable goals. During the gathering, Mayor Sali underscored the virtues of patience, collaborative approaches, and the significance of dedicating time to council matters. He recommended allocating one day per week to attend council meetings and briefings, stressing the value of remaining well-informed while actively engaging with the community outside formal council settings. Evidencing the impact of the session, many attendees left pondering a prospective future in local government, resonating with the empowering message that they hold the opportunity to positively influence their community's trajectory. The sermons of the multifaceted nature of local governance and the essential need for deep understanding, ethical decisionmaking, legal compliance, and public accountability further emphasised the constructive spirit. In its culmination, the conversation left an inspiring imprint on individuals, igniting a palpable sense of purpose and responsibility to actively engage in shaping a brighter future for their community through meaningful participation in local governance.