Council
9 October, 2024
Tandarook candidates have their say
WITH the 2024 Corangamite Shire Council Local Government Elections looming, the Cobden Timboon Coast Times spoke with Tandarook Ward candidates to get an understanding of where they stand on key issues in the region.
Both candidates were given the same five questions and same word limit to form their responses.
Two candidates will contest this election, including incumbent Jo Beard.
The Tandarook Ward is the only ward in the Corangamite Shire Council to have a contested election, with all other ward representatives running unopposed.
Ballot papers began being posted to all residents in the Tandarook Ward on October 7, with voting closing at 6pm on Friday, October 25.
All postal votes must be received by 12noon on Friday, November 1 with all election results declared on Friday, November 15.
The 2024 candidates are – in order listed on the ballot paper – Cath Jenkins and Jo Beard.
What are the biggest issues facing the Corangamite Shire Council?
Cath Jenkins: Key issues include maintaining and upgrading roads, supporting local agriculture and businesses, managing population growth, ensuring access to high quality childcare, health and aged care services, promoting environmental sustainability, and balancing tourism growth with community needs.
Jo Beard: Arterial road networks continue to crumble before our eyes. State Government needs to address this issue as a matter of priority - they need upgrading, maintaining and to be fit for purpose to keep industry, locals, and visitors safe and on the move.
Councils financial sustainability is a major issue. Just like all residents dealing with day-to-day cost of living challenges, council needs to manage its budget to deliver the 100 services wanted and expected by the community.
The change in farming practices is already seeing significant impacts on the agricultural landscape, and surrounding communities. This industry is our most major economic driver for our region, and we are challenged by the balancing of use of prime agricultural for forestry and renewable projects.
Lack of childcare across the board is a significant inhibitor for population attraction and retention. Our communities and businesses deserve better and should have access to quality childcare.
What made you decide to run for the Tandarook Ward seat?
Cath Jenkins: I’m passionate about representing my community, advocating for rural development, and addressing local challenges. With my experience in agriculture, business and community groups, I feel I can bring a strong voice to the council and make a positive difference.
Jo Beard: Representing the residents of Tandarook Ward has been an absolute privilege for more than 13 years, and my heart still lies with continuing that role. My dedication and passion are unwavering, and my priority has always been how best to support and give back to my community, a trait instilled in me growing up here.
I honestly enjoy being able to help and support my constituents, whilst also using my experienced voice to help set and achieve strategic outcomes not only best for my ward, but also the broader Corangamite Shire.
Truthfully there are always challenges in life - however, it’s the way in which we navigate those challenges, and for me it’s about doing the absolute best you can with what you can. Although physical life for me can be a balance, mentally I know I can still make a difference and get things done just as I always have.
What can you bring to the role as councillor?
Cath Jenkins: I bring leadership experience, governance and financial management skills, and a deep understanding of local issues from my work in agriculture and community service. I’m committed to practical solutions, transparent decision-making, and advocating for sustainable development.
Jo Beard: Experience and reputation first and foremost. I also have a proven track record of getting things done, from small scale requests to significant sized projects - to me, everything is important as you should never underestimate what it could mean to somebody. I have remained non-political but true to the issues affecting our area. This has created and maintained successful and respected political relationships across all three levels of government, as well as helped me build a substantial and beneficial stakeholder network.
My genuine leadership style and understanding of the role of a local government councillor has me providing mentoring to others because it has been looked upon as a successful representation of those elected closest to its people. I have extensive experience volunteering on local community groups, council committees and regional boards, as well as sharing my knowledge and lived experiences at a state and national level.
What are you hoping to achieve if elected as a councillor?
Cath Jenkins: I aim to improve infrastructure, support economic growth in agriculture and tourism, enhance community services, and promote environmental sustainability. I also want to foster stronger community engagement to ensure residents’ voices are heard in council decisions.
Jo Beard: Upgrades to the arterial road network, and keeping them maintained and fit for purpose. I will be continuing to advocate and push for provision of a childcare centre right here in Cobden. Cost of living pressures are affecting us all, and I want to be at the council table so I can continue to make sure council provides relevant support to our local residents and businesses without affecting our service levels.
I will be utilising my existing stakeholder relationships and previous groundwork started to get a brand-new co-location hub in Cobden for our Cobden SES volunteers and Ambulance Victoria first responders. The ball has already started rolling here, and I am committed to getting that done.
I will also dedicate myself to continuing the positive relationship of council working with land developers to get new housing opportunities in Cobden. Our future generations need optimism and opportunity.
Why should residents vote for you?
Cath Jenkins: I am a fresh face with a new approach, I am passionate about our region and its people. With strong governance and financial skills, I am committed to practical solutions. I will represent local interests with transparency, ensuring decisions benefit both the community and the future of Corangamite.
My positive approach, combined with my professional capabilities, sets me apart as a candidate who truly understands and addresses the diverse needs of the Corangamite Shire.
Jo Beard: My passion and commitment are unwavering. I genuinely care and love being able to make a difference. I’m dedicated, approachable, and locals trust me. I listen, I observe, and I get things done.
Being local, born and bred, I appreciate the opportunities to give back to my community. I have never forgotten what is expected of an elected leader, nor do I take it for granted.
My diverse lived experience enables me to have a greater appreciation for what really matters and what is needed within our area.
No politics with me, just continued genuine care, empathy and advocating because it’s the right thing to do.
I have led this community through some of the most challenging of times, and stood beside you all. I will continue to volunteer within local community groups, regionally, state and nationally, and be as passionate as ever to keep making a difference.
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