General News
1 July, 2024
Taig's candidate call to business
A spokesperson for the region’s most prominent business advocacy organisation has urged Horsham business leaders to nominate for council in the upcoming election.
Stacey Taig, of West Vic Business - formerly Business Horsham Inc - said the rural city council chamber needed fresh blood.
“Previous councillor interactions have been both embarrassing and counter-productive in creating a professional and forward thinking leadership team,” she said.
“Horsham deserves a ‘let’s go for it’ mentality. We deserve better.”
With 160 entries in its members’ directory, Ms Taig describes West Vic Business as the “peak chamber of commerce in north-west Victoria”.
She said the October local government elections afforded the opportunity for business leaders across the municipality to “step up and take the lead”.
“It is a chance for individuals to leave their legacy and drive positive change, to create a new path forward for the city and wider municipality,” Ms Taig said.
She said the push for change was “a common theme” across industry sectors as the region was poised for major infrastructure projects and an expected mining boom.
“Local government thrives when it is infused with fresh perspectives and dynamic leadership, which is why we are calling on business leaders to step forward and nominate themselves for council,” she said.
“Business leaders possess unique insights and strategic thinking that can drive meaningful and positive changes in our community.
“By joining the council, they can help bridge the gap between the private sector and local government, fostering collaborations that benefit all residents.
“This is an opportunity to shape policies, improve public services, and contribute to a more vibrant and prosperous region.
“Now is the time.”
Ms Taig urged business leaders to look at the new councillor structure and the newly-structured wards on the Horsham Rural City Council website.
“Consider who else you could encourage to put their hand up,” she said.
“Who are the entrepreneurs that you admire? Who are the visionaries?
“Who are those with an incredible business track record that think outside of the square and look for solutions, rather than see the problems and obstacles?
“This is the team we need to lead us effectively to grow and prosper, not to simply rest on our laurels and accept mediocracy.”