General News
3 September, 2024
Murphy locks in re-election bid
WENDY Murphy has declared she will seek a second term representing Inglewood Ward on Loddon Shire Council. The first-term councillor used her social media page to make the announcement within half an hour of last week’s Loddon Herald going live...
WENDY Murphy has declared she will seek a second term representing Inglewood Ward on Loddon Shire Council.
The first-term councillor used her social media page to make the announcement within half an hour of last week’s Loddon Herald going live online.
When contacted by the Loddon Herald, Cr Murphy said: “The past four years have been a big learning curve for me providing a good opportunity for personal development and learning from my fellow councillors, the CEOs and staff.
“Mostly, I have really enjoyed the interaction with the community. I’ve met so many people and heard many differing views and opinions. I appreciate what everyone has to contribute to Loddon Shire.
“There have been challenges but overall the experience has been positive. There are projects and opportunities I would like to continue to see develop further. For example, the Inglewood Streetscape Project that has been a community wish for 20 years, is now moving with $1 million funding for the initial stages. But the project needs further funding from outside sources and I’d like to continue working towards securing that funding.
“I realise and acknowledge there are some difficult decisions to be made in the future, but I feel I have a good understanding now and a rounded thought process to be able to support the community in any decisions made.”
Cr Murphy said she wanted to continue to support Inglewood Ward developing projects.
“Inglewood is obviously my home town and there are several projects underway such as the Inglewood streetscape project and the Inglewood community sports centre masterplan that I will continue to support.
“But just look at Bridgewater. It is growing, it attracts visitors and it has strong industries employing many locals. The community (town and district) is strong and works together to support each other. Inglewood has very few empty shop fronts and Bridgewater is adding to their businesses. The Inglewood Ward is growing and prospering.”
Cr Murphy said she did not have secret or personal agendas. “I want to see a shire where everyone has the opportunity to live, work and thrive.”
She called for a shift in thinking from State and Federal Governments “to understand one size does not fit all, and the smaller councils and towns are still important”.
“Focussing on and providing quality core services through robust strategies and plans is important, not worrying about the small stuff that doesn’t value add or achieve anything for the people of Loddon.”
Cr Murphy, who was unsuccessful in a tilt to be mayor last year, has not ruled out making another bid for the top position. “We will cross that bridge if it arises. My first focus is getting re-elected.”
Cr Murphy is the only declared candidate for Inglewood Ward.