Passionate about Clutha and helping locals

Bryan Cadogan

Age: 62

Occupation: Clutha Mayor

Marital status: Married to Allyson for 39 years, two adult children, Paula and Sam

1. What is your connection to the Clutha district?

I’ve lived in the Clutha district all my life, and my diverse background of working at Finegand, shearing, being a farmer, selling real estate, owning a business, and the privilege of being Clutha mayor has given me a balanced insight into the needs of our whole district. Coming into politics seemed a natural progression, as I really enjoyed volunteering and getting involved in my community. I love working with people, and being mayor has allowed me to follow my passions like helping unemployed locals, or fighting for our district when challenges arise.

Are you or have you been within the past five years an active member of any political, protest or other activist movement or party? How might that influence your activities and ambitions as mayor?

I have never been an active member of a political party or been in protests — though I’ve got close to starting a few — especially over the fight for the Roxburgh Children’s Village and our battles to save Telford Farm.

Why are you standing for mayor?

I am standing for mayor because I firmly believe that the challenges we face in the coming term demand strong leadership and experience. We are about to be bombarded from Wellington with endless reforms and, on a local front, there are real challenges with staff shortages and inflation, along with so many projects to deliver while continuing to contain costs. I have the track record and leadership experience on a national front to promote Clutha’s needs.

What do you believe is the biggest issue facing Clutha during the next three years, and how can it be solved?

Despite all the misinformation and confusion regarding Three Waters reforms, we are just entering the most challenging phase. Like many, I was furious when central government cruelly wrenched the process away from councils last October, denying us meaningful engagement with our communities. I was proud, however, when local government regathered from this setback, that I was chosen to lead the response on behalf of all rural communities. To now see that decision vindicated in the changes that have all rural water schemes either excluded from the reforms or having the mechanisms to conduct a referendum to take private control gives me confidence to continue to fight for the best outcomes in an incredibly complex and difficult environment. I want to continue to lead a council that is highly functional and responsive to our district’s needs.

We continually consult our communities, but our real strength is that we then act on the will of the majority and have the courage to make those hard decisions. I want to expand on Jobbortunities’ success. Over the years, I have assisted hundreds of locals into work, but our economy requires even greater focus and innovative thinking along with promoting housing, and facilitating positive and proactive responses. But, most importantly, I want to finish what I started. To passionately promote Clutha as a great place to live, work, and thrive. To establish the necessary framework and facilities to allow our communities to flourish. To fight for what is best for Clutha, and to use every ounce of my skill and experience to do what is right for Clutha. Onwards and upwards.