Rhea Wigley - For Colac Otway Shire

Rhea Wigley - For Colac Otway Shire From hairdresser to council candidate, driven to create a vibrant future for Colac Otway Shire.

Born in Wye River and raised in Deans Marsh, my roots run deep in the region. After attending school in Lorne, I shifted my education to Colac Secondary College in 2015, continuing the legacy of my maternal great-grandparents who hailed from Colac. Although my journey from high school dropout to hairdresser and now a candidate for local government may seem unconventional—much like my approach at t

imes—I believe it’s precisely this path that has uniquely prepared me to serve as your councillor. As a young business owner striving to thrive in a post-COVID economy, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges and opportunities our community faces. My role as a hairdresser, with my ear to the ground and a clientele spanning multiple generations, has taught me about Colac’s rich history and the bright future we all envision for our Shire. I’m passionate about leveraging our local infrastructure to benefit young families like mine and the broader community. Join me in shaping a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive future for Colac Otway Shire.

POV: You didn't get elected as the youngest ever councillor to the Colac Otway Shire. 😐👍🍸Just kidding, I just have a chr...
08/11/2024

POV: You didn't get elected as the youngest ever councillor to the Colac Otway Shire. 😐👍🍸

Just kidding, I just have a chronic case of resting b***h face! 🤣

To all of my fellow candidates in this election, well done! Putting yourself out there is an incredibly brave thing to do, and I commend each of you for your courage. 🩷 It's amazing to see that we had 18 individuals willing to step up and advocate for the change they want to see in the region.

To our seven councillors who have been elected to represent our shire, congratulations! 🥂 I am confident that I was defeated by seven highly capable, experienced, and unique individuals who have entered this role with the best of intentions. I look forward to seeing the great things you'll achieve. 🫶

Most importantly, thank you to everyone who voted for me and supported me throughout this journey. I'm really proud of myself for what I achieved by entering new territory. Although I didn't get enough votes to win, knowing that over 400 of you put me as your first preference warms my heart. 🥹

Through the experience of running for this election, I've gained a wealth of knowledge about local government and community development. I know I still have the resources to make a difference and an impact on our community.

The next election will be in 2028 when I'll be 30 years old. 💀 I'm not sure what the future holds for me,but I'll continue trying to make a difference with every resource available to me.

Thank you again to every supporter, every friend who listened to me yabber on about politics for 6 months, everyone who helped me campaign and for the whole community for giving me a chance and hearing me out.
Thank you as well to my friends for having my at your wedding at the same time as election results for a beautiful distraction and an open bar 😭🍸🥂

Lots of love!💕
Authorised by Rhea Wigley, 88 Murray street Colac Victoria 3250.

At 16, I was loud and proud, speaking out in a way that was unapologetically edgy and unconventional😭. Today, I stand ju...
02/10/2024

At 16, I was loud and proud, speaking out in a way that was unapologetically edgy and unconventional😭.
Today, I stand just as outspoken—but with an unshakable sense of purpose. 🥹I’ve always called things as I see them, and I refuse to back down from speaking up for what I know is right. 🙌

I’m here to represent the voices too often silenced or ignored. I stand for young people 🕺, small business owners 🫶, families of all shapes and sizes 🧑‍🍼, the LGBTQI+ community 🏳️‍🌈, and our hardworking farmers who fuel local agriculture 🧑‍🌾 . I fight for those who find their community in the arts 🎭. Our government has been out of touch with these communities for far too long.

It’s time for real representation—leadership that isn’t afraid to stand up, speak out, and make bold moves. 📢 I’m here to bring that change. I’m here to represent us 🌏 . Together, we’ll make our voices heard and claim our rightful place at the table. 👊


Authorised by Rhea Wigley 88 Murray St Colac 3250

02/10/2024

Did you know that many shires across Victoria are investing in facade upgrades to enhance the look and feel of their towns? 🏘️✨ From Ballarat’s heritage revitalization to Surf Coast’s fresh coastal upgrades, these initiatives have not only boosted local pride but also increased business and tourism! 🌿It’s time for Colac Otway Shire to do the same. By prioritizing the aesthetics of our community—upgrading facades, maintaining shopfronts, and preserving our unique charm—we can breathe new life into our town and attract more visitors. 💪 Let’s keep Colac Otway vibrant and inviting for everyone to enjoy!Watch the video to see how facade upgrades can transform our community! ⬇️ by Rhea Wigley 88 Murray street Colac 3250

18/09/2024

🎉 Big milestone today—it was ballot draw day, and I’m thrilled to share that I will be 7th on the ballot for the Colac Otway Shire elections! 🌿✨

🗳️ Here’s what’s next:
- Ballot packs mailed: Between October 5-10
- Voting closes: October 25 at 6pm
- Election results: November 1

Stay tuned and listen out! 🕺🫶




Authorised by Rhea Sabine Wigley - 88 Murray Street, Colac 3250

🎉 OFFICIALLY A CANDIDATE! 🎉Yesterday, on 9th September 2024, I officially nominated with the Victorian Electoral Commiss...
10/09/2024

🎉 OFFICIALLY A CANDIDATE! 🎉

Yesterday, on 9th September 2024, I officially nominated with the Victorian Electoral Commission, making me a candidate for the Colac Otway Shire 2024 Council Election! 🗳️

I’m beyond excited to potentially step into this role, bringing a fresh voice for our community – especially for the young business owners, the dreamers, and those who want to see Colac Otway thrive. Together, we can work towards building a vibrant, sustainable future for our shire! 🌱

Thank you to everyone who has supported me on this journey so far. Your belief in me means the world, and I’m ready to put in the work to represent YOU.

Let’s do this! 💪✨


Authorised by Rhea Sabine Wigley 88 Murray Street Colac Victoria 3250

I’ve had the privilege of spending some quality time with my Great-Great Uncle Geoffrey Baudanette, who proudly served a...
26/08/2024

I’ve had the privilege of spending some quality time with my Great-Great Uncle Geoffrey Baudanette, who proudly served as Mayor of the Colac Otway Shire for four years, beginning in 1973. ✨ Our catch-ups have been nothing short of wonderful as we shared our love and passion for our region, and reflected on the many changes that have taken place over the years. 🌟

During our conversation, I expressed my concern to Geoffrey about the current mood in Colac. I’ve noticed that many community members feel a sense of disappointment and a lack of local pride. Geoffrey, in turn, shared with me the rich history of his time as Mayor. He emphasized that a key element in Colac’s prosperity during his tenure was the strong sense of pride that residents had in their community—a pride that fueled local economic growth and fostered a beautiful, connected community. 🌱🏘️

I’m incredibly grateful to have family members like Geoffrey, who offer invaluable perspective and insight into the history of our region. Their wisdom and leadership continue to inspire me as I work towards fostering a renewed sense of pride and community spirit here in Colac Otway. ❤️

Do you remember Colac in 1973? 🗓️ What do you miss about Colac back then, and what could we bring back to our community today from those times? 🤔💭

🚨 Urgent Concern: Deans Creek & Pound Road Intersection 🚨As someone who lives near the Deans Creek and Pound Road inters...
24/08/2024

🚨 Urgent Concern: Deans Creek & Pound Road Intersection 🚨

As someone who lives near the Deans Creek and Pound Road intersection, I’ve seen firsthand just how dangerous this spot is. It’s become notorious for near misses and, unfortunately, too many accidents. My own fiancé was involved in a serious incident here in 2023 when a logging truck failed to give way, miraculously escaping with only minor injuries. (Fun fact: I found my engagement ring in the glove box at the scene—talk about a memorable proposal, right?)

But the reality is, this intersection is a disaster waiting to happen again. Just a couple of weeks ago, I witnessed yet another accident. The current setup is frankly absurd—going from a 60 zone to 80, and then to 100 km/h within a short stretch, right before a give way sign. Expecting drivers to stop safely under these conditions, especially with traffic on Deans Creek Road zooming by at 100 km/h, is asking for trouble.

Another major issue is the trees facing south of Deans Creek Road, which severely block visibility from Pound Road. This makes an already dangerous intersection even worse.

Both of these roads fall under the jurisdiction of the Colac Otway Shire, and I strongly believe immediate action is needed. I’m calling for a review of this intersection with a few key changes:

1. Install a stop sign to replace the current give way sign.
2. Clear the obstructive trees to improve visibility for drivers.
3. Extend the 60 km/h speed limit from the Deans Creek Road intersection until reaching Back Larpent Road.

We must prioritize the safety of our community and prevent more accidents from occurring at this hazardous intersection. Let’s work together to make this change happen. If you’ve had experiences at this intersection or have concerns, please share them below.

Stay safe, everyone.

Would you like any changes or additions?

My grandfather Stewart, born and bred in Colac unfortunately passed away this year. Stewart was a passionate member of t...
24/08/2024

My grandfather Stewart, born and bred in Colac unfortunately passed away this year. Stewart was a passionate member of the Colac Yacht Club and an avid sailor. My family and I are so happy to have donated his yacht “Just Us” to the Yacht Club to be restored to her former glory to be used as a training boat. 🥹
Once “Just Us” is water ready again the Wigleys will take a last ride out on Lake Colac to spread Stewart’s ashes. 🩷
Thank you Colac Yacht Club for giving Just Us some love and giving her a new lease on life. 🥹

🌲✨ This weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to camp at Beauchamp Falls, right here in the heart of the Otways. The...
24/08/2024

🌲✨ This weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to camp at Beauchamp Falls, right here in the heart of the Otways. There’s something truly magical about disconnecting from the hustle and bustle and immersing myself in the serene beauty of our Shire.

Whether it’s gazing up at the stars under the vast night sky, breathing in the crisp, fresh air, or just soaking in the peacefulness of the forest, I’m reminded of how lucky we are to call this place home. The Otways offer so much more than just breathtaking scenery; they provide a sense of community, connection, and a deep appreciation for the natural world.

I love getting out into our community and experiencing everything the Colac Otway Shire has to offer. From the towering trees to the cascading waterfalls, every moment spent in nature is a reminder of why it’s so important to protect and cherish this beautiful region.

Let’s continue to celebrate and preserve our incredible Shire, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same beauty and tranquility that we do today. 🌿💚

Born in Wye River and raised in Deans Marsh, my roots run deep in the region. After attending school in Lorne, I shifted...
14/08/2024

Born in Wye River and raised in Deans Marsh, my roots run deep in the region. After attending school in Lorne, I shifted my education to Colac Secondary College in 2015, joining the rest of my extended family members who hailed from Colac. Although my journey from high school dropout to hairdresser and now a candidate for local government may seem unconventional—much like my approach at times—I believe it’s precisely this path that has uniquely prepared me to serve as your councillor.

As a young business owner striving to thrive in a post-COVID economy, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges and opportunities our community faces. My role as a hairdresser, with my ear to the ground and a clientele spanning multiple generations, has taught me about Colac’s rich history and the bright future we all envision for our Shire. I’m passionate about leveraging our local infrastructure to benefit young families like mine and the broader community.

Join me in shaping a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive future for Colac Otway Shire.

Address

Colac, VIC
3250

Telephone

+61352314136

Website

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