Mr Pohlner, who organises Warrnambool’s annual Shipwreck Coast Fishing Classic and Sustainable Fishing Exhibit, is believed to be the 22nd candidate in the running for the seven positions on the council.

He said that while his passion for recreational fishing led him to want a better boat ramp at Warrnambool harbour, his main goals if elected were to improve education and youth services.

Mr Pohlner said statistics showed Warrnambool’s youth had higher than average problems with family violence and child abuse, and lower than average rates of Year 12 attainment and employment.

He wants the council to work with state community agencies to bring about cultural and generational change and stop the cycle of disadvantage. 

“We need to improve education in life issues,” he said.  

“We need to better address mental health and not let those affected face the world alone.  

“We need to inspire our youth. We need to provide them with hope and opportunity – including adequate job prospects.  

“Our youth need to feel valued by our community.”

Mr Pohlner, who manages a Wannon Water aquaculture project which uses fish to treat sewerage effluent, also wants the council to use resources in a sustainable manner.

His other goals include enhancing Warrnambool’s sense of community by increasing participation in community events and supporting volunteerism.

He also wants existing sporting facilities upgraded and more sports ovals built.

The council should also back the Shipwreck Coast Master Plan’s proposals to make Warrnambool a prime tourist town, he said.

Mr Pohlner is the secretary of the Warrnambool Offshore and Light Game Fishing Club, an elder of Warrnambool’s Trinity Lutheran Church and is on the St Pius Primary School’s board.

Many candidates have said they were standing because of concern about divisions in the current council, but Mr Pohlner’s only comment on that issue was “the past is the past”.

“I want to look forward, not behind,” he said.