Councillor Matters | Cr Jack Blake, April 24, 2025

Published on 24 April 2025

Well, let me introduce myself – my name is Jack Blake and after nine years of talking myself into running for council, I eventually landed the role as Cr Jack Blake.

It all started with a vision to help the region’s youth. However, I’ve now discovered this role is bigger than I first imagined.

My role as a councillor brings me joy, because I know that even though I might not be able to make huge changes, I am helping our community regain its trust in our council.

I believe that for many years, the locals’ opinions of the council were very negative. Having the ability to build a bridge will only strengthen our community and bring us all together.

Just by attending local community events in a volunteer capacity shows that we are working shoulder to shoulder to support community we all love.

I personally get great joy out of being recognised while out cooking barbecues at the Sunday market or picking up rubbish at the Grape Escape – it gains people’s respect.

I also have the privilege of being in a council with two very well-respected, long-term councillors – one of whom is mayor – which gives me comfort that I am being educated in my role by the very best.

This council is very community-minded and we are all striving towards a better future for our town and wards.

We will certainly look back in years to come and truly be proud of how well that bridge we built together has helped us all.

Thanks so very much and I’m always here for our community.

I enjoyed spending time in our great community over the Easter long weekend.

As a kid growing up here, Easter brought many exciting times – now it has grown into something bigger than I could have imagined.

The wonderful job Cr Murray Emerson and the organisers have done certainly launched us internationally once again.

I cannot remember the last time there was so much hype over the Stawell Easter Gift and the turnout was fantastic. To think only 12 months ago it looked more like a swimming tournament than a foot race.

I’m still amazed at the change that comes over the small businesses with the positive financial impact that some of them so desperately need. After the devastating fires we have had, it’s not only given them a financial boost but an emotional lift.

I’ve never been prouder of our beautiful town and most importantly, the people in it. Remember it’s only as good as the locals who make the visitors and competitors feel welcome.

Proudly standing next to our amazing Lady Mayor Karen Hyslop, the whole council team can hold our heads up high recognising the work that goes into this event.