FORGING a strong bond for the betterment of the Penola and Coonawarra district will be the focus of Wattle Range Council Riddoch Ward representatives Dean Burrow and Rick Paltridge.
Incumbent councillor Mr Burrow was re-elected to the ward alongside Mr Paltridge – a Penola farmer – who secured 311 first preference votes in his first local government election campaign.
The two councillors will form part of the new-look Wattle Range representation headed by Mayor Des Noll, who edged out prominent businessman Dennis Muhovics in the mayoral race.
Mr Paltridge said he looked forward to representing Riddoch Ward alongside Mr Burrow over the next four years.
“The amount of support I received from the community was very heartening,” Mr Burrow said.
“I even fielded comments from those outside my ward stating they would love the chance to support me, so it was all very positive.”
Although Mr Paltridge received the majority of the ward’s first preference votes, he was supportive of the election process.
“I think the democratic process is important, it was great to have a true election” he said.
“It gives the electorate a good chance to look at policies of each of the candidates and make a weighted decision about who will represent them.”
“My commiserations go out to my opponent who was not elected, but the process is important for the community to have full confidence in their representatives.”
Mr Paltridge believes “politics is the art of compromise” and is looking forward to building relationships with his fellow councillors.
“Riddoch only takes up two of the 11 spots on council – to get positive actions occurring in Penola and Coonawarra we need to work closely with the other nine councillors,” he said.
“We need to make sure we understand the other wards needs so they will in turn think about what Riddoch needs.”
Elected with incumbent councillor Dean Burrow, Mr Paltridge is confident the pair can do what is best for the ward.
“I am looking forward to the next four years in council and working alongside Dean,” he said.
“Having Dean’s experience will give me confidence going forward.
“Having someone who understands the nuances of local government will be a great asset to me and Riddoch Ward.”
Mr Burrow is equally as confident the upcoming term.
“I appreciate the support of the local community,” Mr Burrow said.
“With how much was received, I believe it indicates we are on the right track for the future.
“I spoke to Tania Shaw after the councillors were announced and although she was disappointed she was not elected, we both have our hearts in the right place so she has given me her full confidence.”
Mr Burrow believes Mr Paltridge will bring a renewed enthusiasm to the ward.
“Rob Thornett and I were always able to come to a consensus and give a united front for Riddoch,” he said.
“We had some robust discussions on what was needed but we always came to an agreement.
“I am hopeful for a similar relationship with Rick – he will bring a fresh set of eyes and a different skill set which I believe is needed to keep things moving.”
