There are genuine questions being raised relating to people's perceptions that local councils should be filled with truly independent councillors. There are many candidates who are members or affiliates of Labor, The Greens, Liberal and Nationals, however many of them do not declare their political persuasions.

I and the other five candidates on the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers party ticket are completely transparent about this issue. Transparency seems to be lost on many people in local council. This is something the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party prides itself on and sets us apart.

Fundamentally, it is an issue of integrity and establishing trust with the community whom we hope to represent.

Why other candidates choose not to mention affiliations with political parties is beyond me. At the same time, I realise that there are genuine independent candidates and I appreciate their efforts running in the election race.

Again, to clarify to people wondering why we have chosen this party stance, it is as simple as being transparent, it is about showing people who we really are, what we stand for and being open and honest.

With Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party candidates what you see is what you get, and ultimately we're here to build a better Orange.

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