The task of numbering the preferred candidates from one to seven to represent Glen Innes and district for the next four years will now be much easier for some. Those are the 25-odd people who attended the candidate’s forum last Thursday night.

During the forum, candidates were given the opportunity to state their case to the voters. In turn voters were able to ask questions of the candidates in order to make a more educated decision as to who will be their representatives.

The mood portrayed by the candidates was a positive one toward the first and current council, since the amalgamation of the Glen Innes Municipal Council and the Severn Shire council four years ago.

Candidates generally held a consensus on a majority of issues facing the local community. They were pro-development while preserving Glen Innes’ cultural heritage; the maintenance of local roads, infrustructure and parks; the need for a united council, the importance of good relations with State and Federal members, and climate change.

The first to address the forum, Robert Schroder highlighted his 13 years of local government experience, including four served as mayor. Second speaker Michael Scherf spoke about his experience growing up with a father involved in the Severn Shire Council for 16 years, his involvement within the Emmaville community and experience in management.

“Continuity, stability, representation and leadership” were the four points current mayor Steve Toms identified as the building blocks of a successful council.

As a civil engineer, environmental scientist, trained negotiator and former delegate to the United Nations Dan Raymond said he had a lot to offer the Glen Innes community.

“To continue to stand up and be counted,” current councillor and recreation officer at Roseneath Nursing home Dianne Newman said. Current councillor Rose Curtis, who gave an entertaining speech on her experience growing up and being apart of the aboriginal community, said youth and water were, for her, the big issues.