Councillor Matters | Cr Karen Probst, May 9, 2025

Published on 09 May 2025

Well so far it has been an interesting experience taking on the role as a local government
councillor.

My major motivations are a strong belief that local input is important, and that people need to be involved in decisions that affect them.

How I get to put that into action is one of those things that can be easier said than done!

There’s such a wide range of issues, from potholes and rubbish collections, through to transmission lines and renewables.

I love the personal approach, chatting face-to-face, listening to your concerns, sharing ideas or brainstorming solutions.

Although I’ve lived in St Arnaud over half my life and enjoy being involved, I’ve learnt so much more about our communities over the past few months as a councillor.

From site visits to local businesses, meeting with farmers, informal chats down the street – I’m always learning.

One of the fun parts is attending events and seeing the work that goes on behind the scenes by volunteers dedicated and passionate about making things happen in our communities.

Just in this past weekend in the northern end of the shire was an exhibition by the regional CWA groups, the opening of an exhibition of Raku pottery at the Raillery Hub gallery, ‘Digging up the Past’ at the Swanwater West cemetery, and Band Sunday, where it was lovely to meet some Stawell Brass Band members and hear all the bands play together.

It's one of the joys of living in a rural community, the ease of attending a diverse range of activities close to home.

Maybe not so much fun, but still interesting and educational, is attending meetings!

Again, I learn so much meeting with community groups and other local service providers. At a recent meeting with the St Arnaud hospital and doctors, it was encouraging to hear about how our doctors and the hospital are working together and exploring lots of different avenues to encourage more doctors to our local area.
Being involved in decisions that affect you takes on another level when it comes to the
transmission lines and renewables. It is very sad to see the divisions it is causing in our
communities and the stress and trauma to farming families resulting from a sense of having no control.
As I continue on this journey, continue to share your ideas and concerns with me. Chat to me when you see me around, keep an eye out for ‘pop-up’ coffee and chats – St Arnaud notice boards and local paper – or give me a call on 0468 773 478.