It's not about me, it's about the people of the Cowra shire
- Alex Cozadinos
Despite being relatively new to town, Cowra Council candidate Alex Cozadinos says he hopes to make a difference to the local community.
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Mr Cozadinos moved to the Cowra region a couple of years ago after living in Canberra and working as a Head Teacher of Science, as well as holding a number of representative positions with the ACT Board of Senior Secondary Studies.
Since becoming part of the Cowra community, Mr Cozadinos has become actively involved as a member of the Cowra Pistol Club and a well-known local church.
Mr Cozadinos said active listening, advocacy, empathy, integrity, reliability, strategic thinking and strong communication skills are among the leadership skills he will offer as a councillor.
He said it would be 'an honour' to serve as a councillor.
"Since purchasing a property and moving to Cowra after retiring as a teacher in the ACT, I have wanted to find a way to contribute in a meaningful way to the wider community that I now call home," he said.
"I believe local government is where I can most effectively use my leadership skills and areas of community interest to serve the community."
Mr Cozadinos said his focus will be entirely on the local community, rather than making a name for himself.
"It's not about me, it's about the people of the Cowra shire that I want to represent," he said.
Mr Cozadinos said his particular focus will be the growth of new and established locally-owned businesses, as well as the local farming community - the 'backbone' of the shire.
He is also focused on mental health issues, particularly among veterans, farmers, business owners and men in general in the community, as well as community-based groups that allow residents to feel safe and included.
He also commits himself to being actively involved in council on behalf of citizens, upholding Australian values and freedoms, focusing on core business of local government and assisting with access to information and services.
"I commit myself to actively support you if you believe that you are not being heard by council and to ensure that your rights are respected," Mr Cozadinos said.
"Your opinions and concerns are important and must be addressed. I commit myself to follow through on what I have promised you to do. My word is my bond."