Bridging gap
AraratRural City Council candidate Rob Armstrong will strongly work to attract businesses to his municipality if he has success in approaching municipal elections.
Mr Armstrong said business was crucial for Ararat district to move forward.
“I am a sixth-generation farmer in the Langi Logan district. I was born in Ararat, grew up here and I’m pretty sure I’ll happily die here eventually,” he said.
“Don’t let that make you think I am narrow minded though. I have done plenty of travelling and run my own businesses off the farm also. I have a solid understanding of the area and issues that face our community.
“I understand how to work in a team and operate in highly regulated industries, as well as self-employment.
“I have the confidence and ability to understand and navigate the systems and processes required to implement positive change.
“I raised my kids here and was heavily involved in their primary school council.
“I am running for council because I really want to see the Ararat community unite. It may sound cheesy but we have a bit of divide between those who live in town and those who live out of town. I think there is a lot of benefit that could come from us working together.
“I want to really push hard to bring more businesses to Ararat, providing jobs for those in town and services for those operating farms.
“I have noticed a lot of businesses close down in Ararat which leaves farmers without anyone to repair machinery or provide products, but at the same time this has affected those looking for work in the town.
“Ararat really needs some energy about
it. We need businesses to want to open up here; we need jobs to support those who live here, to encourage other people to want to live here.
“We need tourists in our hospitality businesses and retail shops on the weekends because that keeps them open and booming, so we locals can enjoy having those great places to go ourselves.
“This is a great place to live but I think we can do better, do more. I am keen to provide some of that energy and hope with your help we can really change things up a bit.”
• The Weekly Advertiser welcomes written submissions from candidates standing for Horsham, Ararat, Northern Grampians, Hindmarsh, Yarriambiack and West Wimmera municipal councils in local government elections next month. Submissions should outline their reasons for standing and be no longer than 350 words.