This is the mindset of Boorowa's Joanne Mackay who will be standing as a candidate at the Hilltops Council election on December 4.

Ms Mackay has lived and worked in the Boorowa area for the majority of her live, with an extensive background in small business and many years' experience in government and private enterprise in Canberra.

"My small business background began in Young in the late eighties with the purchase of a coffee and health food business followed by the purchase of our cherry orchard which we operated for three years," she said.

"Returning to Boorowa in 1990 with my late husband Rohan Gorham we, in partnership, established Boorowa Pastoral Supplies and raised our young family.

"The business was well supported for 23 years before its sale in 2012, which provided me the time and opportunity to complete my Graduate Diploma of Legal Studies at University of Canberra.

"The following years have found me refining my skills in business management and human resources in the government and private sectors in the ACT."

Ms Mackay said, if elected, she will work hard to make the region a better place.

"I have a great respect for people who give up their time for their community... I believe I can bring a considered and reasoned voice to local government in our area," she said.

"I get the opportunity to say what my community is thinking... that is a privilege."

Ms Mackay believes financial stability will be the biggest challenge for the new council.

"We are aware Hilltops Council face financial and administrative challenges in the years ahead," she said.

"Facing these challenges will be a shared responsibility and I would like to play my part in meeting these demands as a member of council by offering a combination of curiosity, knowledge, experience and skills in finance and human resources."

She said a key focus will be helping local businesses get back on their feet following the impact of COVID restrictions.

"[My years in small business] came with their own demands and rewards and gave me a respect for the hard work needed to operate a small business," she said.

"It also showed me the generosity local people have in sharing their time and knowledge when we were obviously 'new kids on the block'.

"Improving the financial position of Council is paramount, however we can't forget we have a vibrant community we need to support post COVID. Small business and the Arts are at the heart of our communities."

Her current position with a large waste and recycling business in Canberra has also given her insight into this essential industry.

"I recognise the environmental impact and financial gains in managing waste successfully at a local level," she said.

"This understanding would easily translate in improvements in waste management for the Hilltops Council."

Ms Mackay said it was important that council reflects the diversity of the region.

"To have a true representation on council It is vital to have a voice from across all communities in Hilltops," she said.

"As a Boorowa resident I hope to add to a balanced and diverse council and to contribute to the successful future of the Hilltops region."

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