Djembe Archibald’s opinion article headed ‘Ward system is not democracy manifest’ (The News, September 20) was an excellent summary of this undemocratic system imposed by the state government after a short term of written submissions to the Victorian Electoral Commission.
Our council submitted a strong response in objection at that time, and yet 46,851 eligible voters here are caught up in the impact of the newly imposed system.
The ballot order of candidates under the VEC guidelines was drawn for only seven wards as two candidates were appointed without any other contestants in both Poplar and Midland wards, so there was no need for vote ballot packs there.
In Greater Shepparton, 26 nominees are contesting each of the other seven wards. Prior to many of our former elections, representatives of the VEC would conduct an information session about the procedure for potential candidates, voters and others with an interest in the closest level of government for our residents’ wellbeing.
A second public meeting was often organised by a group in the community interest, with the exception of the 2020 election, which had COVID-19 restraints. The nominees would present a short speech about themselves and their vision for contributing to the vital four-year term.
The City of Greater Shepparton is the fourth largest regional city in Victoria, with a growing and diverse population. The 2020 councillors provided the community with great leadership during the challenges of COVID restrictions. Two councillors moved on to nominate in state and federal elections. Kim O’Keeffe was successful in her state government appointment, and Rob Priestly went close to winning a federal seat. The community lost two successful councillors early to be replaced by the next in order of final vote results; then, in the 2022 floods, all the team gave critical emergency service to lead us through and beyond for the past two years.
This council was a truly representative one of all cultures, with a strong gender balance. Seema Abdullah, an excellent councillor and mayor for eight years over two terms, and Greg James, our first Indigenous member, both left at the end of the term. Geoff Dobson also departed after serving earlier terms. Thanks to all for your service.
The 2020 council recently consulted the broad community with a questionnaire on a proposed plan for the 2025 to 2029 term, inviting feedback on furthering the municipality together. It would be on the website, and I think it is a must-read for candidates.
As a voter here for 60 years, I hope that the new system is workable for Greater Shepparton. It is a great place to live, work and play; we are all in this together.
Pat Moran | Shepparton
