GEOFF Akers wants a local council that delivers unquestionable value for the ratepayer with a can-do attitude, which is why he is running for the Pine Lodge Ward in the upcoming council elections.
Geoff is a dairy farmer at Tallygaroopna, his family has lived in the ward for 112 years. He grew up in Orrvale and expanded his farming operations to Tallygaroopna in the 1990s. Geoff has been advocating for the region for over 30 years and understands the importance of agriculture and the jobs it underpins. He has chaired Dairy Australia, Murray Dairy, the Victorian Farmers Federation Water Council and was a central councillor for the United Dairy Farmers of Victoria.
“I have been advocating to advance our region on the national and international stage for decades, and I will take these learnings and contacts to the Council table,” said Geoff.
“Premium foods grow here, they are the driver of industries and services which in total creates jobs and opportunities, we must protect the water that grows our economy. Let’s be a ‘Can do Council’ that cuts the red tape, speeds up the processes, incentivises business, and attracts big investment. Council must deliver unquestionable value and outcomes with our rate money.”
Geoff has been president of tennis clubs and has led associations in both junior and senior sports for 20 years and is a member of the Tallygaroopna and Congupna Football and Netball Clubs.
“There’s not been a farmer on Council for some 20 years. I have 30 years of experience with State and Federal Government Ministers in advancing our region. I’ve chaired boards such as Dairy Australia and led local sporting clubs and associations.”