Camperdown's Catherine O'Flynn eyes Central Ward in upcoming Corangamite Shire Council election

Ms O'Flynn, who also ran in the council by-election earlier this year, said she wants to see a cleaner future for her children and grandchildren.

"I'm all for renewable energy, I'd like to see people getting recognition for going solar in their rates, I want to pave a way forward for a sustainable future," she said.

"I'm 64 years old but I have children and grandchildren and I'd like to see renewable energy part and parcel of moving towards a cleaner planet.

"I want see some sort of incentive for people to become green, whether it's through rates reduction or other ways.

"I don't object to wind turbines, some say it's a blight on the landscape but I don't believe that, it's just another way to become more environmentally friendly."

Her stance differs to the current councillors, who have thrown their support behind fossil fuel use in the region.

Ms O'Flynn worked for the council for 27 years and has been heavily involved in local community groups.

Ahead of the October general council election she has surveyed 500 residents finding the community wants more support for working families, social services and roads.

"Our lives have been changed due to the pandemic, and the challenge and opportunity of rebuilding our local community is significant for Corangamite Shire, and I want to be part of that effort," she said.

"We need to make sure that as we move forward, we don't leave anyone behind. This means providing adequate support for families, elderly people and young people in our community as we recover together from the public health emergency.

"We are a strong community, with a good agricultural industry we need to keep supporting and promoting across the state. I want to work with local farmers to make sure they get through this period, and that a community-led recovery is focused on helping our region's industries thrive.

"There is enormous potential to attract more tourism to the area, and building a strong tourism industry that showcases our wonderful local businesses and beautiful region is a key focus of mine."

"I will be a strong voice on council and will always fight for better services, support for business and every one of us in the community."

Ms O'Flynn moved to the shire from Essendon 40 years ago and has never looked back.

"I want to bring a whole different perspective and be a voice for the community, during my survey a lot of people were feeling very disenchanted with council," she said.

"I want to be able to put their case forward and represent them."

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