STAWELL's Lauren Dempsey will nominate to run for local government in the 2020 Northern Grampians Shire Council elections.
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The healthcare worker said she hoped she could be part of the drive to make Northern Grampians Shire a brighter and healthy place to live.
The 30-year-old is hoping she can provide a voice for the residents within the shire to achieve the best possible future and opportunities.
"Healthcare is an area I've studied and worked in for a number of years so it is a passion of mine and it's something I want for the residents of Stawell and the greater Northern Grampians," she said.
"I'm also interested in advocating to bring more opportunities and implement new ideas for the region.
"Mental health is another area I would like to advocate for - it's so important in rural areas that this topic is acknowledged and there's always work that can be done in this area."
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Ms Dempsey said in 2016 she had considered running for Council but felt she was quite ready.
"It was when it first came on my radar and has been ever since," she said.
"I looked into it this year a lot more seriously and look into all the facts so I could make an informed decision.
"Of course it is a bit daunting to put your hand up and put yourself out there and be open to scrutiny. It's a challenge I'm willing to take on because my passion for the community is what drives me.
"You can't be what you can't see. To announce that I will be running to be a new fresh face and voice on the Council is really exciting."
Moving to the area in 2013, Ms Dempsey joined community groups and grew her passion and love for the region.
"I am a very community orientated person and take opportunities to get involved where I can," she said.
"The Youth Action Council was forming at that time at the Shire and was successful in obtaining a role within that group.
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"It was a big thing at the time. There wasn't too many Council's doing it and we were quite successful in the number of different initiatives and events that were hosted.
"It gave me a broader sense of insight into local government."
Ms Dempsey said the opportunity also gave her an opportunity to network with Councillors.
"We had to go to Council meetings and having to present the work we were doing and received fantastic support from the Council at that time," she said.
"The people I deal with within the Shire or on Council have always been really supportive.
"Knowing that if successful you are going into a supportive environment is why I put my hand up this year for elections."
Are you nominating for Council in 2020? Send an email to cassandra.langley@stawelltimes.com.au
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