Thomas Weyrich, a sitting councillor for the Greater Murray ward, has lived in the area for 46 years and is a current resident of Mathoura.
He is motivated to represent the local issues of people in the area, drawing on his experience operating several small businesses and working seven days a week.
Mr Weyrich also wants to protect what he believes is a fragile financial situation that council is in.
Another one of his priorities is maintaining local health services, which he sees as improving but still having room to grow.
Similarly, he feels the Moama Police Station needs to be championed, an issue he has followed since he was deputy mayor in 2004, when he inspected the site with a group of politicians.
“We need to advocate stronger ... the Mathoura Police Station has been condemned with no access. The public policing right across our footprint needs to improve significantly,” he said.
He is also concerned about rural roads and education, as well as what he sees as cost shifting by the NSW and Federal governments.
Mr Weyrich feels that he understands the operations well, having spent 25 years as a councillor and formerly as mayor.
“I know the dynamics of council and I certainly know how to put my case,” he said.
He believes that his council and work experience keeps him engaged with the community and the issues it faces.
Mr Weyrich enjoys living in a rural town near forests and close to the Murray, especially having seen how other, larger councils in NSW operate.
“I'm glad I live in this part of the world, our council has a bit of everything; forest, river, farming, tourism — we've got the lot,” he said.
