Wagga election Q&A with Councillor Alan Brown

Beyond his role as one of Wagga’s councillors, Alan Brown is a Rural Fire Service group captain and the president of the Wagga branch of NSW Farmers. He also works as a chemical trainer. 

You’re seen as the farmers’ friend on council, how effective have you been at pushing that agenda this term?

I’ve been quite effective at getting things done for people.

I’ve helped put in the master plan for the Wagga saleyards, done what I can to help Bomen go ahead, but also established a good rapport with staff to ensure council responds to peoples’ needs.

Why do you oppose the Wagga to Ladysmith ‘rail trail’ project?

I’m supportive of the idea of rail trails and vehicle-free accessibility, particularly to the RAAF base, but this would have serious implications to landholders and the have preeminent rights so it shouldn’t go ahead.

In general, I think this rail trail offers poor value for money in terms of a recreation facility. I’d rather see improved cycling facilities in the city and along the river.

What are the biggest issues Wagga faces?

We need to take the next step in the growth of the city and that is to attract more industry.

We have a first-class education facility, a first-class service centre, but we need more industry and that will come if we provide heavy transport at a competitive cost.

The intermodal will get industry going and the city will grow at a pace that I think will delight people.

It’s been a turbulent term for council. If you could do it again, would you do anything different?

I wouldn’t do anything different.

Councillors faced some difficult decision making and I’m proud to be one of the six who kept the current progressive leadership in place, which has delivered outstanding results over the past four years.

What do you have to offer as a councillor?

I have a balanced view of the city, I live in the city and have a farm in the local government area and I understand the needs of residents who live in town and outside of built-up areas. I have the experience to know how to represent people and ensure their voices are heard.

A city of this size needs a cultural heart to attract a full range of new citizens and I have some concepts to do that.