Council & Politics
17 October, 2024
Election candidates outline vision for Ararat council as voting begins Q2
Council candidates share vision beyond roads, rates, and rubbish.
Voting has started for the Ararat Rural City Council election and voters are expected to receive their ballots in the mail from Monday, October 7.
Twelve hopeful candidates across the municipality are hoping to be elected to the council of seven seats for the next four years.
In September, The Ararat Advertiser invited all candidates to provide a 300-word profile and respond to two questions.
This week, we wanted candidates to look beyond roads, rates and rubbish and outline their vision for the municipality.
Here are their responses in order of the VEC listing.
Q. What expertise or attributes do you have that would help you undertake the role of Councillor?
Rob Armstrong.
Mr Armstrong did not provide a response.
Peter Beales.
I have previous Council experience, involved in financial management and planning in the Victoria Police Force. I am engaged heavily in the local Community.
Fiona Tipping.
Ms Tipping did not provide a response.
Daryl Scherger
Mr Scherger did not provide a response.
Amanda Mead.
Ms Mead did not provide a response.
Bob Sanders.
I have always been an active part of my community and having served two years as deputy mayor and one as mayor I feel that I am well qualified to continue as a councillor.
Osman Kokuo.
Public service ,running successful business, school captain high school, years of leadership in Community ,as a ex soldier know how to work in discipline and teamwork.
Bill Waterston.
Having spent the past four years as a councilor I believe I have gained a great deal of experience and knowledge. Very approachable and willing to listen.
Teli Kaur.
As the Manager of Ararat Neighbourhood House (ANH), I bring strong leadership, community engagement, and problem-solving skills that would greatly benefit my role as Councillor. In my current position, I work closely with diverse community groups, local businesses, and service providers, giving me a deep understanding of the needs and challenges faced by residents. I have experience implementing programs, addressing community needs, and successfully securing funding to run not-for-profit organisations like ANH. My proven leadership is reflected in the "Best Not-for-Profit Award" that ANH received in October 2023, which created a history for our community and motivated and reassured me that I have the capabilities to do good for our community. My ability to listen to the community, foster collaboration, and create inclusive opportunities ensures that I can effectively represent and advocate for the best interests of Ararat's residents as a Councillor.
Peter Joyce.
My extensive involvement in local community groups, sports clubs, and emergency service groups for over 40 years reflects my commitment to the well-being of the Ararat Rural City and its people. My work experience includes agriculture, government and running a small business. I specialise in policy, compliance, health, and security. I appreciate the contribution our farmers, industry and shopping local contributes to our community. My background in government, coupled with my experience in farming and running a small business locally, equips me with a diverse perspective that could be invaluable in council deliberations.
Jo Armstrong.
I am an experienced advocate for community concerns with a strategic focus grounded in common sense, accountability and transparency. I am an accomplished ambassador with a proven track record in advancing our community capacity and pride by leading with integrity and promoting unity. I am an empathetic ally to community groups and love supporting people to achieve their aspirations by working together and making the most of available resources. My pragmatic optimism motivates me to mentor new councillors to serve our community well into the future.