VOTE 1 RUSSELL FOR MAYOR
ABOUT RUSSELL
Russell Fitzpatrick is a powerhouse for our Bega Valley Shire. Born and raised here, he’s he has a lifetime of serving his community. With 12 years of experience as a Councillor and currently serving as Mayor, Russell is the leader who gets things done.
Russell’s passion for our community shines through in his ability to secure grant funding, which makes up 60% of our council’s revenue. His deep connections across State and Federal governments enable him to cut through red tape and bring critical resources to Bega Valley.
As a member of the NSW Country Mayors Association and Chair of the Canberra Regional Council, Russell has the influence to advocate for our Shire on a larger stage. His leadership has already secured significant funding for key projects that are shaping our future.
This election is about choosing a leader who not only has the experience and connections but also the passion to keep Bega Valley moving forward. Russell Fitzpatrick is that leader. Let’s keep the momentum going—re-elect Russell Fitzpatrick as Mayor on 14 September and continue building a bright future for our Shire.
WHAT RUSSELL HAS DONE
AS YOUR CURRENT MAYOR
The role of the Mayor is often underestimated, but it’s one of the most crucial positions in shaping the future of our community. As the leader and the voice of our Shire, the Mayor is the vital link that ensures our local needs are heard by State and Federal governments—the very bodies that provide 60% of our funding. Russell Fitzpatrick has not only led with determination, but he has also delivered results that have made a tangible difference in our community. Here are just a few of the transformative projects Russell has championed as Mayor.
The Merimbula Boardwalk is one of the many community-focused projects Russell has delivered as Mayor. Fully funded through grants he pursued, not rates. It’s more than just a path — it’s a place where nature and community come together. This is a great example of why you need a well-connected and enthusiastic Mayor like Russell.
After the devastating Black Summer Fires, when Kiah Town Hall was lost, Russell knew he had to act fast. he immediately reached out to our State member at the time, Andrew Constance, and shared just how crucial it was to rebuild. Thanks to Andrew’s swift action, state funds were secured to make it happen!
With the nearby Catholic Church also lost and no plans for its rebuild, the Council stepped in and offered to purchase the land, ensuring the Hall found its perfect new home. The incredible Hall we see today is a testament to these combined efforts—and what a joy it was for Russel to open it!
Connecting Our Shire, One Ride at a Time!
Connecting our shire’s towns is key, and our new Active Transport Plan (Walking & Cycling) is making it happen. With targeted actions for every area, the Council is already seeing the benefits.
The Kalaru-Tathra section of the Path is thriving, thanks to State funding Russell secured. It’s fantastic to see so many people out riding!
Now for the next stretch, Kalaru-Bega, with its challenges like land acquisitions and funding. But Russell is very keen to get into this!
As 60% of the Shire’s funding comes from Grants, it is vital to have a Mayor who can personally source & champion grants at State and Federal levels. The Eden Gravity Bike Track is a great example of how I lobbied to get the funding.
A True Test of GRIT & DETERMINATION
This is not just a story about a project—it’s a testament to the resilience and persistence required to see a complex plan through to completion. And it’s exactly why you need a Mayor who doesn’t back down.
The end result will be magnificent, but the journey has been anything but easy. Here’s the story…
Back in February 2019, after intense lobbying, we secured an $8 million grant to rebuild a new Beag Regional Sporting Complex with services for all existing users. The funding was supposed to cover everything. But then, the State Government delayed the Funding Deed for 18 months, pushing us into the COVID era and the devastation of the Summer Fires. By the time we finally had a design in 2022, estimated costs had skyrocketed to $14 million.
As if that wasn’t enough, we faced further setbacks with heritage and flooding issues on part of the land. It became a critical moment: do we divert $4 million from the Pambula Sporting Project to cover most of the shortfall, or do we return the $8 million to the State Government? It wasn’t an easy choice, but Council stood firm, debated every angle, and unanimously decided to move forward. And I didn’t waste any time—I immediately started hunting for another $4 million grant for Pambula.
In June 2023, we finally had a design ready for tender. But when the tenders came in, they were all well beyond the funds we had. Again, Council had to make a tough call: do we return the $12 million or dig deep within our own resources to keep the project alive? I’m proud to say that, once again, Council unanimously chose to push ahead, even though it means other projects might take longer to deliver.
Securing funding and completing projects of this magnitude isn’t for the faint-hearted. It takes guts, a clear head, and a relentless drive to make it happen. This is what I do, and I’m committed to seeing it through.
The Tathra Wharf has been restored to its former glory! As Mayor I was able to champion and sponsor the project to get the grant funding needed. Because of my strong State and Federal Government connection, I can keep the grants flowing.
Proud of what we’ve achieved together!
Unlocking Eden’s Potential!
We all know the incredible potential of the Eden Port Facility. Back in 2010, Russell lobbied hard and secured a $10 million commitment for the Eden Wharf Extension, enabling cruise ships to berth landside. But that was just the beginning!
The next major milestone was the Safe Harbour Project, with the installation of the Wave Attenuator—fully funded and constructed by the State Government. Now, I’m pushing for the next step: the Marina Development behind the Attenuator. You’ve probably seen the plans out for consultation. As Mayor, Russell is championing a NSW application to the Federal Government for funding the first stage.
A Legacy of Dedication!
This project has been a labour of love, and I’ve all been in it for the long haul! The master planning kicked off before I even joined Council 15 years ago, and now, we’re seeing the fruits of our persistence.
In 2012, we added a fantastic equestrian area, which has become a hub for events like the Wanderer Festival. Then, we installed a top-notch irrigation system, ensuring lush, playable surfaces. And now, the final touch—the brand-new Dressing Shed and Canteen Facilities!
The Pambula Sporting Complex is ready for a bright future filled with exciting sporting and festival events!
A MAYOR'S ROLE
AND WHY RUSSELL IS PERFECT FIT
While the Mayor is firstly a Councillor, representing the Shire, they are a leader among equals in the Chamber. Then they are the voice and representative of the Council Chamber to the Shire and to broad sate and federal connections. This requires experience and a certain set of personal skills and traits. On these Russell measure perfectly. Be careful who you choose for Mayor!
- Unite and develop a focused team of councillors
- Manage the council meetings to achieve a cohesive collected position
- Stay highly connected with State and Federal counterparts
- Drive the agenda for Council’s important issues
- Ensure grant funding flow (60% of BVSC revenue)
- Balance community needs with financial resources
- Ensure the efficient delivery of Council services
