About Me.
A Stronger Community for a Stronger Future
Thank you for considering me as your Lower Avoca Ward candidate for 2024. My name is Bruce Stafford, I live in Charlton, and I have been part of the Buloke community since 2015. I am a devoted family man with a wonderful wife and three grown children.
Recently retired after 12 years as a senior manager with the Victorian Office of Public Prosecutions, I offer extensive experience in leadership, governance, compliance, risk management, financial oversight and stakeholder engagement. I hold a university qualification in Legal Practice Management and am certified in project and change management. I am committed to values such as honesty, transparency, integrity, accountability, empathy, and community advocacy.
I have no business interests in the Shire ensuring no conflicts of interest as councillor, and I have no political affiliations.
I am committed to listening to the concerns and suggestions of residents, businesses, the agricultural community, and local groups to create a vibrant and resilient Buloke. My focus will be on initiatives that foster economic growth, support local businesses, enhance infrastructure, preserve our natural resources, promote community well-being, including participation in sport and recreation, whilst being financially responsible.
By addressing the needs and opportunities within our community, we can work together to build a stronger community for a stronger future.
Career and Education
I have recently retired after 12 years as a senior manager with the Victorian Office of Public Prosecutions, where I played a key role in enhancing the prosecution process by implementing best practices in compliance and risk management, all while supporting various stakeholders including victims of crime. My experience encompasses leadership, governance, compliance, risk management, financial oversight, and stakeholder engagement.
This background has equipped me with valuable insights into legal frameworks and stakeholder dynamics, which I can utilize to inform strategic decision-making and strengthen community engagement as a councillor.
Since my retirement, I have been dedicated to community wellbeing and resilience through part-time roles with the Australian Red Cross and Buloke Shire Council, focusing on outreach and recovery initiatives.
I hold a university qualification in Legal Practice Management as well as industry certifications in project and change management.
I have also completed the coursework towards a Bachelor of Business in Public Administration, and the knowledge and skills gained through these studies have significantly contributed to my preparedness for the responsibilities of public service.
My industry association memberships include the Institute of Community Directors Australia and the International Association for Public Participation.
Community & Personal Interests.
I am actively involved in various community interests and activities. I have been a long-time member of Scouts Victoria, where I’ve had the privilege of helping shape the lives of our youth and instilling values of leadership and community service.
As a life member of the Baxter Cricket Club and a former director of the Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association, I’ve witnessed firsthand the power of sports in bringing people together and fostering camaraderie.
My passion for history and heritage led me to pursue genealogy, delving into the rich tapestry of our ancestry and preserving our collective identity.
Currently, as a Red Cross Emergency Services Volunteer, I provide immediate assistance during crises and disasters. My training includes psychological first aid and essential emotional support. I work closely with other organizations and local authorities to ensure effective distribution of resources and support for affected communities. This experience has equipped me with valuable skills in crisis management and community support.
How to Vote.
Voting in this election is by post only. The electoral office will post ballot packs to all enrolled voters from Monday 7 October.
Your ballot pack will contain:
- a ballot paper
- candidate statements
- a ballot paper envelope (for your vote to go in)
- a reply-paid envelope (for your ballot paper envelope to go in)
- a leaflet with instructions in other languages.
Follow the instructions in your ballot pack to complete your vote. Make sure you post it or drop it off at the election office before 6 pm on Friday 25 October.
There are three candidates for the Lower Avoca Word. They are:
- BARRATT, Stephen
- O’DEA, Kevin Thomas
- STAFFORD, Bruce
To vote for me place a “1” in the box next to my name, just like in the sample ballot paper below. Don’t forget to place a “2” and “3” next to the candidates you wish to allocate your preferences to.
Please remember you must place a number in each box on the ballot paper for your vote to be valid.
