Councillor Matters | Cr Justine Hide, March 14

What an eventful and fast-paced start to the council term for myself and my fellow councillors. Since being sworn-in mid-November, I have been immersed in learning the intricacies of my new role, completing all mandatory training – well ahead of schedule, thanks to the efficiency of the Northern Grampians Shire staff. 

December was filled with lots of various engagements, followed by the devastating fires that began on the 17th in Grampians National Park, which led to the town of Halls Gap being evacuated for seven nights.  

While also evacuating my family, animals, and myself, I quickly familiarised myself with the emergency response processes within our shire, identifying key areas in which I needed to be actively involved. Having a deep personal connection to the town under threat was both challenging and insightful, and navigating live media interviews provided a rapid learning experience in public communication during a crisis. 

Now, as we transition into the recovery phase, my learning continues – engaging with lots of local residents, businesses, community groups and organisations while gaining a deeper understanding of the roles played by the shire, and state and federal governments in disaster recovery. 

I have not stopped fighting for our local businesses in Halls Gap and will continue to do so until we reach our limits, which will hopefully be a positive outcome. We ask if you can in the near future, visit the town of Halls Gap for a day, weekend or longer, as having visitors return to our town will be a positive contributing factor to the recovery.  

Meanwhile, council business continues, and we remain committed to addressing all community concerns and normal day-to-day business, including transmission lines and renewable energy projects, which I will continue to be actively involved in. 

One of the most significant priorities for myself and my fellow councillors is the development of our four-year strategic plan. This plan will guide our efforts and shape the future direction of our community, a process I find particularly exciting.  

Collaborating with a diverse range of people, the community and the skilled NGS staff has been incredibly rewarding. Looking at the bigger picture has been my focus from the start – our future is important, but we must also be thinking of the next generation and what choices we can make now to ensure their future in this region is that little bit better. 

I am often asked, “Why did you want to become a councillor?”  

My honest answer is simple: “I was bored!” 

While some laugh and others look at me with curiosity, I can confidently say I am truly enjoying the role – and I am certainly not bored anymore. I am also very lucky to be supported by a beautiful partner and children, which provides me with the flexibility and strength to continually give every day my 100 per cent.