The 2024 Wodonga Council Elections feature a diverse group of candidates, each bringing a unique perspective to the future of this vibrant regional city. With a focus on sustainable development, community services, infrastructure, and economic growth, the candidates represent a broad spectrum of professional backgrounds and community involvement. Some are seasoned council members seeking re-election, while others are newcomers passionate about driving positive change. As the election draws near, residents will have the opportunity to choose leaders who reflect their vision for Wodonga’s continued growth and prosperity.
We are happy to introduce:
- Brett Baird
- Matt Burke
- Rachael Voogt
- Danny Lowe
- Ash Gill
- Lu Pellizari
- Libby Hall
- Hannah Seymour
- Michelle Cowan
- Tim Quilty
- Graeme Simpfendorfer
- Danny Chamberlain
- Cassie Aldridge
Publication of these survey answers are authorised by Graham Jenkin, Chief Executive Officer of Business Wodonga. 191 Beechworth Road, Wodonga Victoria. Telephone 02 6056 8302 Email [email protected]
Brett Baird
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years?
My key aspirations for Wodonga for the near future are to drive the futureproofing of Wodonga and continuing the great growth in community focus. I hope to be part of a council that guides and builds Wodonga, from strong community ties to encouraging and supporting sole traders, small and large business and community, non for profit and governmental entities. I want to help move Wodonga towards a future with aspiration and innovation in our goals and projects. I want to see great grass roots consultation and of course a Greenfield Wodonga Hospital. I want to see action not just proposal after proposal…lets plan ahead and keep Wodonga moving forward.
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
My visions for Wodonga’s evolution is as a major hub for business and community in regional Victoria, With LOGIC growth and community and housing expansion its now time to plan not just five years but twenty five years down the track and start building the infrastructure to surpass those requirements. With Wodonga being such a great place, logistically positioned and diverse in culture and people skills, we have core resources to grow the city in a positive manner, we just need to manage the finances and the priorities to achieve this.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
Council role with small and large business should be the same with community and government….to listen, interpret, analyse and make informed decisions and to formulate a joint plan to build, grow, promote and make prosper business, community desires and legislative requirements. After many years in retail and management roles across the region, active memberships in the Chambers of Commerce and now in a business analysis role, I believe we can create positive dialog, future driven goals and plans and to put them into action over the next few years.
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
Brown and green field site considerations whilst providing a wealth of comparisons, I think its about time for action and when considerations of many other issues such as surrounding catchments, the need for dedicated trauma facilities, a dedicated maternity and childrens facility and high level services and specialty clinics, the only option for Wodonga, the surrounding area and regional Victoria, would be a greenfield sight designed in tranches from the start to future proof the development as the community and need expands. Whilst my belief is based on my experiences in Wodonga and Albury and being a regular at both institutions whilst undergo cancer treatment, many clumsy injuries and the odd sickness, I am always open to consultation and additional advice, however to be honest to all, by belief in the need for Wodonga to stand tall with a new hospital push can only benefit Wodonga communities, businesses and services.
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
My personal belief in council priorities should be around the new Hospital, Community consultation, increasing the liveability of our suburbs and building strong and vibrant businesses through services and support. Im no expert in any of these or other issues but I do have a passion and a set of ears always open for sensible informed advice and feedback.
Rachael Voogt
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years? Re-energise the development of Junctions Square.
Attract essential workers – Recruitment Campaigns: Partner with local institutions to promote job openings.
Welcoming Events: Help workers connect with the community
Smart Development and Green Spaces – Sustainable planning, Community Input and preservation of our beautiful surrounds.
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
Wodonga City has a unique opportunity to become a centre of innovative industry, leveraging the land at the Logic Centre and our close proximity to the university and TAFE. With an already vibrant local industry and a significant pipeline of funding from the defence sector, we can position ourselves as a national leader in industry.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
Many people are unaware of the diverse businesses in Wodonga. The council can engage the community by showcasing our local industries.
Additionally, offering networking sessions and skills development workshops would foster connections and enhance local expertise.
Finally, advocating for streamlined, positive experiences when interacting with the council will strengthen community trust and collaboration.
Listening to what businesses want!!!!
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
Population Growth: We need real population growth figures specific to our region, rather than relying on state averages.
Expansion Capacity: Assess the chosen development option’s ability to expand and meet current medical needs, as well as those of the growing catchment area over the next 30 to 50 years.
Local Care Accessibility: Evaluate how the development can enhance local healthcare services, reducing the need for patients to travel to Melbourne for treatment.
Hospital Resilience: Consider how the currently under-resourced hospital can effectively operate as a construction site while continuing to meet the medical needs of the population.
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
Get Junction Square happening!!!
Danny Lowe
Key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years:
Support the continued growth of the LOGIC industrial hub and the employment opportunities it creates.
Realise the full potential of the Central Business Area with a mix of residential, retail, and corporate services, creating a self sustaining local economy and boosting the city’s nightlife.
Increase casual employment opportunities for local youth.
Redefine Wodonga’s relationship with its natural assets by better integrating Wodonga Creek and the Murray River into the city’s identity.
Address key health issues where Wodonga exceeds state averages to promote a healthier community.
Tackle housing affordability by partnering with stakeholders, particularly to make use of surplus land across different levels of government.
Modernise the senior citizens’ hall to reflect the needs of the growing elderly population.
Advocate for more Changing Places toilets in key areas frequently visited by individuals with mobility challenges to ensure inclusivity.
How Wodonga could evolve over the next 25 years:
Building on the above aspirations, the next 25 years hold great potential. Community consultation on the 2050 vision suggests that residents’ priorities are consistent with the 2033 vision, and the council should align with the community’s goals and vision.
There will be continued growth in the Leneva and Baranduda precincts, along with significant infill development.
While growth will present challenges, it will also create new business, personal, and educational opportunities.
Council’s role in supporting businesses:
The council should play a key role in supporting both small and large businesses by facilitating connections, fostering partnerships, and encouraging collaboration.
Brownfield vs. Greenfield hospital development:
After public disclosure of the relevant factors, a decision was made to develop the hospital on a greenfield site. This is what the community deserves, and state and federal governments should heed the advice of experts.
Key priority for the incoming council:
Economic development & fiscal management in its various forms should be a major focus.
Matt Burke OAM
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years?
- Best Health Service outcomes
- Solid Economic Growth
- Sustainable jobs for our Youth so that they will live here and establish their families
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
I would dearly like to see Wodonga grow in population, businesses and have a strong economic future that attracts people to come and work and live here, particularly medical specialists in all fields of specialisations. I want a bright future for our Youth, so that they can have sustainable jobs.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
I believe council has a huge part to play in any size business development, as I have stated earlier I want Wodonga to be Better and Stronger in Health aspects, Economic viability and provide a future for our Youth…you can get these by good advocacy at all levels of government
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
It is a well known fact that I was the privileged Chairman of Albury Wodonga Health, that received the $558M in October 2022 from Premiers Andrews and Perrottet, both from opposing political views. My board was unanimous in our decision to Government that we wanted a Greenfield single site, however the other option was a Brownfield single site. But as we all know, the Government chose to fund us for a 1st Tranche Brownfield single site development. We need to realise that obtaining $1.3BN, at the current estimates, will be difficult to achieve in the current financial climate, and that’s without the site (Albury or Wodonga), which also needs to be developed. So what I believe Wodonga needs is strong advocacy for the 2nd Tranche of funding for Wodonga Hospital to be developed into a first class Allied and Community Health precinct, adding Dental and even Mental Health.
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
Getting agreement on our Health Service provisions for the region.
Danny Chamberlain
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years?
To get Wodonga Council in to a sound financial position to provide a solid foundation from which to grow efficiently. Realise land sales at LOGIC, attracting new businesses and jobs as well as providing much needed cash injection to council coffers to take pressure off the ratepayers and allow projects to proceed like the upgrading of the senior citizens centre, including a new area for the Wodonga historical society back in the town centre where it belongs. efficiently plan new land developments to provide housing options at every level, from lost cost affordable to executive style housing to help attract the business executives that will provide the jobs with the work they provide.
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
Wodonga will continue to grow in particular in the Baranduda/Leneva corridor where a new satellite commercial area will help access to goods and services locally. The sporting complex at Baranduda fields will continue to evolve facilitating a wide range of sports and activities. An effective transport network enable will fast and easy connections around the area utilising latest technology. Better cooperation with Albury and other surrounding towns will reduce some duplication of expensive assets that can be efficiently shared. Hopefully the CBD will become a more vibrant place for dining and entertainment. centred around the junction place area with a wide range of options available.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
Council has an important role in supporting businesses small and large, both those currently in Wodonga and aiding to attract new businesses to help provide the jobs for a fast growing population. While I’m not a supporter of direct financial assistance using ratepayers money to prop up business, council should do all it can to help business by facilitating, assisting and providing guidance where it can to ease what can be a minefield of regulation and compliance. It can be a source of much needed information and advice, in the building, planning, health, food safety and compliance departments, working with people in business to improve their efficiency and increase viability.
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
1. The current site cannot support all the requirements for our future needs, it barely can for current needs.
2. Brownfield site means staff and patients working in a building site, possibly for 10 years or more, endangering health outcomes.
3. Greenfield site offers building efficiencies allowing for more hospital per dollar spent.
4. Greenfield site will allow for optimisation of access, by vehicle via close freeway connection from all areas in both states without having to negotiate traffic bottle necks like the current site and by air with a new helipad on site where it should be.
5. Tertiary and military training can be facilitated within the extra room available in a greenfield site.
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
The key priority I see is to complete the work currently being done to overhaul the finance operations within the council. This will allow for accurate oversight of each department’s costs and efficiencies and put Wodonga in a solid financial position and well prepared for the challenges that will be facing all councils in the near future.
Financial stability will enable the council to do what it needs to do to help the city grow and thrive without the burden of excessive debt.
Graeme Simpfendorfer
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years?
I aim to see Wodonga continue to build a thriving local economy that supports businesses of all sizes, enhance our infrastructure with a focus on sustainable development, and maintain a strong sense of community. In particular, I am determined to progress Junction Place, the Hills Strategy, utilising our natural assets for locals and tourism. We also deserve better connectivity and relationships with Albury to deliver outcomes. Furthermore, I believe we should prioritise social cohesion by ensuring all voices are heard, especially underrepresented groups, while promoting a culture of the highest professionalism, innovation and adaptability within the council.
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
I see Wodonga evolving into a vibrant regional hub known for its innovation, environmental sustainability, and strong local identity. I envision the city becoming the leader of Regional Australia for large and small business, tourism and the best place to live, work and retire. As a key economic and cultural centre in the region, Wodonga will balance its rapid urbanisation with the preservation of its natural environment. I also anticipate the city being recognised for its collaborative governance model with our surrounding LGA’s, which involves active participation from residents, local businesses, and community organisations.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
Council plays a critical role in fostering an environment that encourages businesses to thrive. In providing incentives for innovation and sustainability, this will empower small businesses to grow and contribute to the local economy. For larger businesses, the council should work collaboratively to ensure infrastructure and policy settings align with their needs, including adequate transport networks, digital connectivity, and access to skilled workers. Regardless of business size, the council’s role is to act as a facilitator—creating a business-friendly environment while also ensuring development aligns with the broader community’s values of sustainability and social responsibility.
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
Accessibility and the highest levels of care should be paramount—ensuring that residents can easily access healthcare services regardless of location. Environmental sustainability must also be considered, with a greenfield site offering the potential for modern, eco-friendly construction, but possibly contributing to urban sprawl. Long-term growth and flexibility must be taken into account—whether the chosen site can accommodate future expansions or changes in healthcare needs, as well as the immediate needs of all our communities. Balancing these considerations while keeping the community’s best interest at the forefront will be crucial in making the right decision.
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
We need to prioritise the projects that make us an even more attractive place to live, work, and raise a family, such as our CBD & city heart, improving green spaces and enhancing public transport options.
I further believe the council must prioritise its working professional relationships internally and externally, as they do require repair. Building a respectful, trustworthy and truly independent councillor group is essential for our city to prosper and grow as the community desires.
Cassie Aldridge
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years?
1. Sustainable Growth: Smart urban planning and infrastructure upgrades to support our population.
2. Economic Development: Encouraging local business growth and promoting Wodonga as a tourist destination.
3. Environmental Sustainability: Reducing carbon emissions and enhancing green spaces for public enjoyment.
4. Community Well-being: Improving health services, recreational opportunities, and cultural inclusivity.
5. Education and Youth Engagement: Supporting local educational development and youth empowerment.
6. Public Safety: Enhancing community safety and emergency preparedness.
7. Transport Connectivity: Improving public transport and promoting active transport options
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
Over the next 25 years, the City of Wodonga is likely to undergo significant changes driven by population growth, economic trends, technological advancements, and environmental factors. We are poised to evolve into a more vibrant, sustainable, and economically diverse regional hub over the next 25 years. The city’s future will be shaped by its ability to balance growth with environmental stewardship, technological innovation, and community well-being.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
1. Business Support: Offering advisory services, networking opportunities, and workshops.
2. Streamlining Regulations: Simplifying permits, licenses & reducing red tape.
3. Infrastructure & Zoning: Providing commercial land and infrastructure for business growth.
4. Pro-Business Policies: Advocating for businesses and creating business-friendly policies.
5. Local Procurement: Promoting “buy local” campaigns and prioritizing local businesses in contracts.
6. Financial Support: Offering grants, loans, and tax incentives for business development.
7. Tourism & Retail Support: Promoting tourism and supporting local events.
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
Both options have their merits, but the decision should balance immediate costs, long-term potential & community needs.
• Community: Brownfield will disrupt existing services. Construction noise will affect patients in hospital
• Time: Brownfield takes longer due to demolition; greenfield allows faster construction.
• Expansion: Greenfield offers more room for future growth.
• Location: The brownfield site is close to existing services. Greenfield, depending on location, may need new infrastructure.
• Cost: Brownfield can have hidden costs (remediation); greenfield has higher upfront costs but fewer obstacles.
My personal preference is for a greenfield hospital development.
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
I think a key priority for Wodonga City Council is enhancing local economic development. Supporting small & large businesses, attracting new industries, and fostering innovation to create jobs and diversify the local economy. The council can promote Wodonga as a business-friendly city by improving infrastructure, providing incentives & offering support services that help businesses grow, ensuring the community benefits from increased employment opportunities & economic resilience
Tim Quilty
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years?
City where rates are low, houses are affordable, there are good jobs allowing people to raise families. Council is quick to approve and responsive to requests from business and ratepayers, and is focussed on delivery of basic services. We have a new single-site greenfield hospital underway in Wodonga.
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
A place with a thriving economy and cheap housing that people want to leave the cities and move to. Kids don’t have to leave town for education or employment. Rates are low, business prospers. We have a thriving manufacturing sector, Logic is full. Council is focussed on delivering basic services, not interfering in people’s lives.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
Council should firstly cut red tape, reduce restrictions and get out of the way of local business. They should ensure the roads are good, there is plenty of parking and traffic to business premises is not impeded. They should be keeping rates low. They should not be subsidising any business or providing special deals to anyone. There should be more transparency around council contracts and procurement processes, ensuring local business has fair access and every contract is good value for ratepayers.
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
We need a single greensite hospital, preferably in Wodonga just off the Bandiana link. I have been a consistent advocate for this on council and in parliament. The greenfield site should be easily accessible, be large enough for our existing combined border population, have lots of room for future expansion and for building private facilities alongside to complement it, and combine university & TAFE teaching and Defence force facilities as well.
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
Keeping rate rises low, careful spending and trimming the recurrent spending, getting more housing approved faster, council cutting red tape and getting out of the way of business wanting to do things.
Michelle Cowan
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years?
• Effective economic development and investment attraction. Wodonga has multiple strategic advantages & opportunities for leveraging strategic partnerships with agencies, industry and business, for jobs and growth
• Strategic planning for longer-term financial sustainability and sustained growth, identifying future opportunities and ensuring appropriate asset maintenance while minimising pressure on rates
• Progress on our city heart and genuine community pride in the next stages of Junction Place
• Advocacy for appropriate government funding for services and infrastructure to allow Wodonga to grow – including improved public transport, water supply augmentation and a new hospital.
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
I am optimistic about the future for Wodonga. Our successful future depends on access to appropriate education, transport, water and health care infrastructure – this is why effective advocacy at local government level is so critical. With good strategic direction, effective investment attraction and sustainable urban planning we can grow and maintain our quality living standards, continue to leverage the advantages of our strategic location to grow our population and industries to have a strong local economy.
Building resilience now to adapt to increasing climate variability is key to our liveability.
Wodonga will be a welcoming community that supports diversity, equity and inclusion.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
It is important for Council to acknowledge the role and value of local business in economic development. A thriving local business environment can affect broader investment decisions in Wodonga. Council has a responsibility to understand where it can influence or improve any challenges, constraints and opportunities facing local business. I believe Council has an pivotal role in supporting both small and large business in Wodonga, and that there are strategic partnerships that can be leveraged for cost-effective business support, including economic benchmarking, data collation and analysis, visitor attraction, events and business incentives.
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
Facts and evidence should be considered. The evidence of need for a new, larger hospital is clearly documented in 2021 Clinical Services Plan. Master planning determined that a greenfield was the best option. And comparing the brownfield with a greenfield indicated that the greenfield option “would result in facilities that more fully meet the health and wellbeing needs of the cross-border into the future”. The cost of a greenfield was $1.165million compared with a brownfield redevelopment of $1.014million. We should also consider the impact on staff, and the ability to attract staff, and the wellbeing of patients having to attend a hospital that may be a construction site for many years.
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
The initial key priority for Council will be to develop the Council plan for the next 4 years and lead effective, comprehensive engagement with the community. The Council Plan is the key document to identify priorities and ensure that strategic actions and major projects are identified. I am committed to making sure that the plan reflects the community’s long-term vision for Wodonga. I’m also interested in the implications of recent budget cuts and finance decisions.
Hannah Seymour
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years?
My key aspiration for Wodonga is to enhance the quality of life for all residents, now and in future. This vision should be the cornerstone of every Council decision, guiding policy-making, budgeting, and planning. The question ‘How will this improve our citizens’ wellbeing and standard of living?’ must be at the forefront of all deliberations. Prioritising individual needs will benefit families, businesses, and our community, leading to a stronger Wodonga. This ‘quality of life’ focus ensures our city evolves to serve its people, fostering an environment where residents experience tangible improvements through thoughtful, people-centered decisions.
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
According to recent data, Wodonga is set to double in size over the next 25 years. This significant growth means we need to prepare our city to accommodate more residents and their needs. We must ensure our infrastructure is ready, including roads, schools, and essential services like healthcare and utilities. While some of these areas fall outside Council’s direct responsibilities, we can play a crucial role in advocating for our community at both State and Federal levels. By planning ahead and speaking up for our community, we can ensure Wodonga grows sustainably and remains a great place to live for future generations. Together we can build a stronger Wodonga.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
Wodonga Council has implemented various initiatives and support services to create a supportive environment for businesses of all sizes. Our streamlined permit process, Business Concierge service, and commitment to the Small Business Friendly Council initiative aim to contribute to economic growth. However, I believe we can always improve. I’m committed to actively engaging with small business owners and Business Wodonga to identify additional ways Council can better support their success. Your feedback is crucial in shaping our policies and services. Together, we can strengthen Wodonga’s business landscape and drive our community’s economic vitality.
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
In deciding between brownfield or greenfield development for Albury Wodonga Health, people must be our primary consideration. Patients’ and staff needs, comfort and access to care should drive decision-making. Prioritising anything above community wellbeing risks compromising healthcare delivery. While factors like location accessibility and future expansion potential are important, they must be evaluated based on how they benefit patients and essential workers. A site offering easy access from various parts of Albury Wodonga is crucial, as is the capacity for infrastructure growth to meet evolving healthcare demands. Ultimately, all decisions should prioritise community benefit.
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
The incoming Council will be a mix of experienced and new members. One of the priorities must be given to training new Councillors on legal requirements and policies. Equally important is fostering relationships among all members. This builds empathy, respect, and a dynamic that encourages collaborative problem-solving. Ultimately, this foundation leads to positive community outcomes through respectful discussions and informed decision-making.
Libby Hall
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years?
l would like to see Wodonga Council in a strong financially sustainable position.
With rate rises kept to a minimum. I am fully aware from talking with local businesses, how the State Government’s Land Taxes are impacting many local businesses and small mum and dad property investors. High council rates should not overburn them as well. We need to get our CBA thriving and have Junction Place either nearing completion or well ahead with the construction works.
Roads, Park and Reserves should be well maintained. l would like to see good supply of diverse housing estate options, complemented with the infrastructure needed to the support them
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
Our population will significantly increase over the next 25 yrs. Transport linkages into and around our city will play an important role in the livability of Wodonga going forward.
It will be essential that we have a good Transport management plan in place. Community infrastructure will be important to support a larger population. Promoting business investment to Wodonga will be on going. Investment will provide employment opportunities and services. We have an aging community, and many young families. Supporting these age demographics will require health services, schools, play and recreational facilities. Council will need to be in a good financial position to support this growth.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
If elected to council l would like to see a closer working relationship with our local businesses. Communication is important, working together could help with a better understanding of the rolls we both play in our community. Discuss local business issues and support. How this could be achieved?
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
A greenfield site will allow for better site access, during the construction stage and would not create health servicing problems during construction on a brownfield site. A greenfield site will allow for easier future expansion. I believe construction on a greenfield site would be more affordable than construction on a brownfield site. The Borella Road on and exit ramps from the Hume Hwy are problematic. Easy driving access to the hospital will become a big issue, not only for the community but for the ambulance services, they need quick and easy access. I believe the hospital has been cut back to fit the existing site and budget. It is underwhelming and lacks forward thinking.
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
The key priorities for the incoming council to focus on would be the council budget and the financial sustainability of the council going forward.
The development of Junction Place and CBD West. Council needs to do all they can to get these developments moving. This will not only help with the revitalization of High st
It will create jobs and a sense of prosperity in the CBA area of Wodonga. A focus on land sales at Logic and good working relationships with our local businesses and community.
Lu Pelizzari
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years?
1. The Completion of the Junction Square Precinct.
2. The Re-invigoration of High St and it’s businesses.
3. The attraction of more Tourists to Wodonga, with the introduction of more family friendly venues and activities.
4. More revegetation and green spaces especially in our new housing estates.
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
I see a vibrant city centre, which people frequent for the restaurants, retailers and accommodation. I see regular festivals and activations, across the city and an environmentally sustainable and picturesque urban fringe, with world class walking and hiking tracks, bike trails and bird watching. Water sports and other family friendly activities on Lake Hume.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
I believe Council should provide programs and services to help businesses succeed, as successful businesses lead to a healthy local economy which in turn attracts more businesses and more investment.
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
1. The ability to provide optimal health care for our rapidly growing population.
2. The opinions and requirements of the medical professionals who will be using the facilities to provide that care.
3. Will the facility be fit for purpose and able to cater to our population in 5 or 10 years time?
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
Working together as a respectful cohesive team along with council staff to provide the best possible outcomes in all matters for the citizens of Wodonga.
Ash Gill
What are your key aspirations for Wodonga over the next five years?
My key aspirations focus on ensuring that the community’s past goals are completed and that future aspirations continue to shape Wodonga’s direction. This includes strengthening community engagement, supporting local business growth, and promoting sustainable development. I will back projects like Junction Square and Baranduda Fields, reflecting what the community values. I also aim to enhance healthcare services, transport, and infrastructure to support Wodonga’s growth, keeping the community’s vision at the forefront.
How do you envisage Wodonga evolving over the next twenty-five years?
Over the next 25 years, I see Wodonga evolving into a thriving regional hub that balances its natural beauty with modern development. It will be a model for sustainable growth, with expanded infrastructure, green spaces, and innovative urban design. Wodonga will become a place that fosters small business success, attracts major industries, and provides exceptional healthcare, education, and cultural opportunities. Guided by the soon-to-be-completed Wodonga 2050 plan, developed with extensive community input, as our guiding principle, we can ensure the city grows in a way that reflects the needs and values of the community, building a place where future generations will be proud to call home.
Based upon information that you already have and understanding that you may have a different point of view if you come into possession of new information, what role do you believe that Council should play in supporting both small and large businesses in Wodonga?
The Council’s role should focus on creating a vibrant, supportive environment that encourages innovation and growth. Council must provide pathways to foster new small businesses and support existing ones by offering networks, connections, and access to resources. Small businesses are vital to our community, and they rely on population growth. Council’s role is to attract and grow the community, which in turn supports these businesses. For large businesses, Council should showcase why Wodonga is an ideal place to invest, creating jobs and further opportunities for growth. Strengthening partnerships and promoting local talent should be central to this effort.
What factors do you think should be considered when deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development for Albury Wodonga Health?
When deciding between a brownfield or greenfield hospital development, several factors must be considered, including current and future population needs, accessibility, environmental impact, and economic feasibility. We need to assess which option can deliver the best healthcare services in a timely manner, while also supporting long-term growth and the changing demographics of our region. Community consultation is essential to ensure that the development meets the expectations and needs of the public, as well as complements broader infrastructure plans for Albury-Wodonga.
As an individual, what would you personally like to see as a key priority for the incoming Council to focus on?
The incoming Council’s key priority should focus on what the community wants and values. My views are secondary to truly listening to residents. I aim to foster transparent conversations about our decisions, emphasising community needs.
I also want to improve respect and consultation between the Council and the community and with state and federal levels. Cultivating a respectful culture in the chamber will positively impact Wodonga, reflecting our communities’ values.