Leigh Johnson will liaise with the Yanha Gurtji Ward

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT... Leigh Johnson has announced he is running for the Yanha Gurtji Ward in the upcoming council election. The Yanha Gurtji Ward takes in the centre of Shepparton, running along the Broken and Goulburn rivers, Archer Street and Knight Street. Photo: Aaron Cordy

LEIGH Johnson wants to see a different perspective on the Greater Shepparton City Council, which is why he is running for the Yanha Gurtji Ward in the upcoming council election.

I am running in the Yanha Gurtji ward and have the drive to be part of a Council team to work for you, our wonderful community,” said Leigh.

“I enjoy how diverse Greater Shepparton is. I grew up in Shepparton and attended local schools and have worked here on/off over the years, I’m currently a Community Engagement Police Officer and hold the Multi-Cultural Liaison role. I have previous Councillor experience, at Hume and will bring that different perspective to council. I want to make a difference.”

Walking a different beat as Greater Shepparton’s Multicultural Liaison Officer, Leigh works closely with multicultural communities day-to-day, attending events, schools, and places of faith to better understand what their needs are and break down cultural barriers.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT… Leigh Johnson has announced he is running for the Yanha Gurtji Ward in the upcoming council election. The Yanha Gurtji Ward takes in the centre of Shepparton, running along the Broken and Goulburn rivers, Archer Street and Knight Street. Photo: Aaron Cordy

“I have a wealth of community experience. A lot of my working life has been in working with youth. Currently, I am part of a public speaking youth program, to develop our youth. I completed the Fairley Leadership program in 2022.”

“In the community, I am a board member, I have previously been a football umpire, sporting volunteer, avid Park runner and am involved in the performing arts with STAG.”

Through these connections, he understands a lot of what troubles the greater community.

“No doubt the cost of living, public transport and housing are issues for us all. I will be a strong advocate at the council level with future planning, infrastructure, roads, waste and further supporting our valued community groups.”