I’m James Gooden — a farmer, grazier, and lifelong Riverina resident, and I’m running as an Independent candidate in the upcoming federal election.

First, a warm welcome to the voters of Boorowa and the Snowy Valleys Council region.

With the recent boundary changes, you’re now part of the Riverina electorate — and I want you to know that your voice matters.

I’m not a party politician, and I’m not here to toe any line.

I’m here to represent regional people — honestly, independently, and without fear or favour.

I was born in Wagga and raised on a grazing property along the Yanko Creek in the western Riverina.

I now farm near Cootamundra.

Like many across this electorate, I’ve worked the land, raised a family, and spent a lifetime in small communities that look after each other through drought, bushfires, floods and change.

I’m running because I believe we deserve better representation — not more party politics.

I’m tired of decisions being made in Sydney or Canberra by people who’ve never driven our roads, dealt with our phone reception, or spoken with local business owners. We’re a proud, productive region — but too often we’re taken for granted.

As an Independent, I’m not beholden to party donors, factions or secret deals.

I will vote with the people of the Riverina — not with a party room.

That independence gives me the freedom to fight for practical solutions that serve the whole region.

Here’s what I stand for:

Cost of Living Relief – Lowering energy bills, fuel and grocery prices, and supporting the families, pensioners and small businesses doing it tough.

Fixing Mobile Blackspots – The 3G shutdown made things worse. I’ll push for real-world audits, stronger accountability, and proper regional investment.

Protecting Productive Farmland – We need stable baseload power, and that includes exploring all energy options — like nuclear — not sacrificing farmland to poorly planned wind and solar factories.

Health Access in Rural Areas – More support for rural GPs, hospitals, aged care, mental health, and women’s health — especially in regional towns that are under-resourced.

Water Security – No to harmful buybacks. Yes to long-term infrastructure and local planning that puts communities and farmers first.

Better Infrastructure – Roads, bridges, airports, digital connectivity — the things that keep regional communities moving forward.

This campaign isn’t about hollow promises or slick ads. It’s about listening, showing up, and getting results.

You now have a say in who represents the Riverina.

If you believe in straight talk, real independence, and genuine regional advocacy, I’d be honoured to have your vote.

CONTRIBUTED BY JAMES GOODEN - INDEPENDENT