That is Kellie Crossley’s goal for Edward River, and why she has chosen to stand for election to its council this September.
And with vast experience in community and professional roles, she believes she has a lot to offer the community as a councillor.
“I want a region that has varied opportunities for current and future generations to either stay, or return when the time is right,” she said.
“I will provide leadership and contribute to ensuring we have a strong, cohesive council who has fabulous debates, makes decisions and gets the job done while maintaining working relationships with all.”
After graduating from Deniliquin High School and attending university in Melbourne, Mrs Crossley started her professional career as a dietitian in both Victoria and Deniliquin.
Her horizons then expanded through various opportunities.
“I have worked in health and community management positions, along with public health project management, held quality and governance roles in local government and the early childhood sector.
“I am married to Andrew, with whom I have three beautiful children, and together we run a farming business north of Deniliquin.
“I am deeply invested in our community, and for our 16 years have volunteered in several community and sporting organisations including Intereach, Deniliquin Children’s Centre, Deni Junior Giants, Deniliquin Rams, Deniliquin Pony Club and Rice Growers Association and created Deniliquin’s Can Assist branch.
“I am a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, and have also completed a number of other leadership and communication training programs.
“I haven’t been on council before, however, I do have broad committee experience.
Mrs Crossley said she first considered the idea of standing for council while working in a governance role with ERC shortly after the 2016 merger. As she had a young family at the time, the timing was not right.
She said was also spurred on after witnessing the dysfunction of the outgoing council, but also inspired by the breadth of experience demonstrated by her fellow 2024 election candidates.
“The community is looking for cohesive leadership from council, and I believe I have the skills to contribute to that goal.
“As councillors we must be willing to have great debate, make the best decision and then get the job done.
“I also genuinely want to make this region stronger for current and future generations.
“I have read the ‘Our Region, Your Say’ report, commonly known as the Sefton report, and one of the key things I took from that is the need to engage with and bring the community along.
“That is something I am committed to doing.
“I would like to be involved in a council that looks to improve on the variety of engagement it does provide, particularly ones inclusive of farmers and those who live in the villages of Edward River.
“I think we also need to advocate, lobby and build and maintain relationships with all levels of government, and that is a skill I can bring to council.
“Like some of the other candidates, a sound financial position without increasing the burden on ratepayers is a priority. Ratepayers must have value for money.”
Mrs Crossley said she was “thrilled” to see 16 candidates had nominated for this year’s election, which will take place on September 14.
“It’s really positive that we have a choice.
“I hope it results in diversity on the council and I urge everyone to make a considered choice when voting.”
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