Candidates declare themselves as council nominations open

MORE candidates for the next Surf Coast Shire council are stepping forward ahead of nominations for the election opening today (Thursday, September 17).
Gary Allen has declared he will stand in Lorne Ward.
Born and raised in Lorne after World War II, Mr Allen was later appointed principal of Lorne P-12 College.
“After retiring from teaching I gained valuable advocacy experience as chair of the Country Education Project Victoria and as executive officer of the Rural Education Forum Australia,” he said.
“Both organisations facilitated networking in rural and remote communities and lobbied both state and commonwealth governments to achieve improved educational outcomes for rural families and students.”
He returned to Lorne to live eight years ago and has been an active participant in the community since then.
In Winchelsea Ward, Tony Phelps and Adrian Schonfelder have thrown their hats in the ring to contest the two seats held by incumbent councillors Heather Wellington and James McIntyre.

Mr Phelps said if he was elected, he would work towards “putting in place a strong direction, sensible policies, and a cohesive plan that is as fair as possible”.
“The Surf Coast Shire is an odd mix of coastal and hinterland communities with sometimes conflicting needs and priorities. I certainly intend to work with the other eight councillors to achieve outcomes that are the best they can be for all involved. I believe in transparency, co-operation, collaboration, and teamwork.”
Mr Schonfelder said he was standing for election because “our area needs consistent, strong and positive leadership”.
“As a life-long and sixth generation local, who lives and works locally, I know the issues that confront us every day. Now, more than ever, I’ll keep working hard to find solutions to local problems.”

Cr Margot Smith will not recontest Anglesea Ward, but has endorsed Liz Wood for the seat.
Ms Wood said she has more than 30 years of professional experience to bring to the role of councillor.
“Margot is highly respected for her work as councillor for Surf Coast and I feel delighted she has endorsed my candidacy. I’m passionate about community and the environment, and supporting and nurturing community life. Now I have the time, energy and enthusiasm to commit myself to four years serving the community.”