Strathbogie councillor makes a bid for state politics

Jul 8, 2022

Hat in the ring: Strathbogie Shire councillor Kristy Hourigan has put her hand up for preselection with the Nationals for the seat of Euroa. Photo by Contributed

Strathbogie Shire councillor Kristy Hourigan has declared her intention to nominate for Nationals’ preselection for the state seat of Euroa.

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The Nationals are opening nominations after sitting member Steph Ryan announced her intention to retire at the Victorian election in November.

Ms Hourigan has been a strong advocate for her region, having served in local government for the past two years.

“I am putting my hand up because I believe I can be a strong and enthusiastic voice for our region,” she said.

“I love this region, the people who call it home and I am passionate about seeing our communities thrive.”

Ms Hourigan grew up in Frankston, where she worked delivering training in business and human resources.

“After falling in love with Euroa, I moved with my partner Warrick and our daughter Lilly, 7, in 2017 when we bought the Euroa caravan park on the banks of Seven Creeks,” she said.

“In 2018 we welcomed our second daughter Maddy, who is now 4.

“When we took on the business, the park was rundown and tired.

“We have put in five years of hard work to turn it around, tripling its revenue despite the challenges of COVID lockdowns and the Euroa floods.

“We have recently appointed full-time managers and bought a small farm near Euroa, which now gives me the time and space needed to devote myself to a new challenge.”

Ms Hourigan said as a councillor she was proud to work with her community to improve local infrastructure and services.

"When I don't agree with something, I believe it's important to do something instead of just complaining,“ she said.

"Standing for state parliament was never part of my plan, but my family and I, like millions of others, have felt the direct impact of government decisions on our business and our lives in recent years.

"It's important that the voice of our region continues to be heard — loudly and clearly — in state parliament.

“I know the role of a MP is more than a full-time job, but if I am selected, I will give the best of myself every day to represent our region and to fight for the investment we need.

“I believe The Nationals are best placed to continue to represent this region because, as Steph showed during her time as our representative, they understand the needs of country communities and they work together as a team to get outcomes.”