ALBRECHT, Melanie. Candidate for West Ward

I am an enthusiastic, curious, open and approachable first time nominee for a seat on the Hindmarsh Shire Council, driven to make a valued contribution for the community I love. I am passionate about doing what I can to ensure Hindmarsh is a vibrant place where families want to raise their children and people dream of retiring. Born in Nhill and educated at Nhill College, after six years away at University, I returned to make a home with my husband at Gerang Gerung. We have a young family with four children, aged 10, 8, 6 and 2. I have worked for 14 years in the ExecutiveTeam at West Wimmera Health Service, currently as the Executive Director of Business & Strategy. I am well versed with the needs of our community and the challenges that living in rural Victoria can present. I am a strong advocate for equality between rural and metropolitan Victorians in governmental policy. Dedicated to being actively involved in my community, I have served on the Nhill Early Years Parent Advisory Committee, Nhill College Parent Advisory Committee, Grampians Womens Health Board, Nhill Town Committee and the Hindmarsh Shire Early Years Fundraising Committee. My most rewarding community engagement is being a Uniting Wimmera Respite Foster Carer, providing respite for amazing families who have long term foster care placements. My youth, professional expertise and qualifications in Law, International Studies, Business and Health, in addition to the Australian Institute of Company Directors Course, give me a solid foundation for a role as a Councillor. I have nominated for local government because I believe a strong council is diverse and representative of its residents. I am ready to listen to you, provide a fresh view point and bring a new voice to important matters for the greater good of ourcommunity.