Mr Oakes said he had been approached by a group of people who asked him to run for the central ward, which takes in Camperdown and Terang, and the longer he thought about it the more he warmed to the idea.

Mr Oakes retired in July after 35 years in the police force, 26 of which were spent at Warrnambool, Camperdown and Colac.

“I think I’ve always had a fair-minded attitude for people,” he said. “I enjoy being with people and dealing with people. I enjoy helping where I can, I always have.”

Mr Oakes said if elected he would continue to pursue his  great interest in helping people with disabilities and the aged.

“This is a good chance to put something back in the community. What jumps to mind is that I’d love to get more doctors in country areas.”

 Mr Oakes said he would also like to see an improved public transport system in the shire. “I know how popular the Timboon-Camperdown bus is,” he said.

“I think it would help also if there was a better train timetable. I’m also really keen to see Camperdown market itself. We’ve got a great main street and I think we should really start to capitalise on that.”

An issue close to Mr Oakes’s heart is police numbers in country areas, although any role council could play in attracting police was limited.

Mr Oakes’s decision follows plans by Peter Harkin and Simone Renyard to run for council.