John Harvie has lived in Moama for the past five years and has lived in the region for more than 40 years.
He believes that a choice of candidates is important in elections, and since retiring from Murray River Council as the director of community and economic development in December 2022, has the time to commit to the role of councillor.
Mr Harvie has spent 20 years as a small business owner and around 17 working in local government in roles including as a councillor, mayor and senior executive.
“I believe that my skills and experience could add value to council,” he said.
Some of Mr Harvie’s priorities if elected would be long-term financial planning, attracting new business to Moama, improving services such as park maintenance and recognition of Moama as a regional growth centre.
He would also look to have council meeting locations rotate so that voices can be heard across the community.
If elected, Mr Harvie would aim to make himself available to the local community, including by hosting a ‘clinic’ one day a month in Moama, listening to residents’ concerns and advocating to council on their behalf.
“My phone will always be on, my door will always be open,” he said.
He feels that his experience as former Murray River Council director of community and economic development has informed him about the goals of different committees, groups, individuals and businesses in the area.
“(It gave) me an insight and knowledge of the aspirations of our communities,” Mr Harvie said.
In this role, his team secured government funding for projects including recreation reserve upgrades in Moama and Barham, building Moama District Preschool, Moulamein Heritage Village and rebuilding Wakool Bowling Club.
Mr Harvie believes that living in the area provides a fantastic lifestyle. He enjoys the natural environment, particularly the river and forests.
