AN information night for potential candidates for the upcoming local government elections attracted a diversity of the district’s residents to the Glen Innes Severn Learning Centre conference room on Tuesday night.

Eight people - a mix of men and women, from town and country and both newcomers and long-time residents - joined sitting councillors Rose Curtis, Steve Hicks, Dianne Newman, Col Price, Robert Schroder and mayor Steve Toms to learn more about the opportunities and pitfalls of life as a councillor.

The seminar was facilitated for Local Government Learning Solutions by barrister Gerry Holmes, who used humour to lighten up the subject matter.

Participants were at times split into groups to explore their own motives for running for council, what leadership qualities are required, and the challenges of elected life.

Mr Holmes said there was no shying away from the responsibility.

“You can be a single issue candidate, but you can’t be a single issue councillor. Once elected you must make the decisions that are best for all people, not just those that elected you,” he said.

He said it was often planning and environmental issues that most interested prospective councillors whereas there was more and more need for financial analytical skills. It also helps to be a good communicator, be able to work as part of a team and overcome personality differences, be organised, and have a high regard for personal ethics.

Mr Holmes also outlined the governance structure of council, particularly the separation of roles between councillors who set the direction, and the council staff who do the work.

Mayor Steve Toms said he was pleased people turned up, though more would have been welcome.

“There was a good cross section of people there, who would all make good candidates. But the community has to be careful it doesn’t become complacent about who might stand, because there needs to be a good choice to inspire vision and debate.”

He said Mr Holmes was an excellent presenter with a detailed knowledge of local government, and was also entertaining.

“He made some very good points about needing to communicate and work as part of a team, because they were things that dogged councils in the past.”

The next crucial date for candidates is Monday August 4, by which time they, and those nominating them, must be on the electoral roll for the area. Nominations close on Wednesday August 13.

For copies of handbooks contact Glen Innes Severn Council on 6730 2300 or call into the council office in Grey St.