My name is Ajay Mishra, and I am your independent candidate for the Lockwood ward by-elections (incorporating the suburbs of Ironbark, Long Gully, Maiden Gully, Myers Flat, Leichardt, Wilsons Hill, Shelbourne, Lockwood and Marong).

I have been a Bendigo resident for over 10 years, and I call Bendigo home with my wife, who is a childhood educator with the YMCA. We are a young family, with a 9-year-old attending Victory Christian College and a 4-year-old attending Kangaroo Flat Kindergarten.

I am an Information Technology (IT) specialist with over 17 years of experience, specialising as a Senior Solution Architect. I hold various IT certifications and am an expert in Portfolio and Project management solutions. Over my professional journey, I have worked across health, banking, finance, telecommunications and construction sectors.

I am an active volunteer with several local organisations, contributing positively to the local community. For example, I am the current President of the Y-Service Club Bendigo, serving the community through various initiatives, such as Community Christmas meals, providing funding support to local organisations, including YMCA Victoria, Bendigo Youth Choir, Smiths Family and OTIS Foundation. I have also been a volunteer with the Eaglehawk Community House, Victorian Multicultural Commission’s Regional Advisory Council, Indian Association of Bendigo, Australian Red Cross Bendigo Blood Donor Centre, Bendigo Foodshare, and Bendigo Umpires Association with AFL Central Victoria.

Being an avid sportsperson, I enjoy playing cricket. I am currently playing with the Bendigo Cricket Club. Prior to this, I was with the United Cricket Club.

I have been involved with Marong Cricket Club in organising the Australia-India Local T20 Cricket competition, where we hosted a cricket team from India, Hisar, to participate in the tournament.

I am committed to listening to the residents and actively responding to their needs. I want to ensure that our young people thrive and that the City creates opportunities for future generations, where they are nurtured to grow, play, learn, and lead. I will advocate for genuine community partnerships with the Council and work towards a safer community for all.

As an elected representative, I will lead with care, honesty, accountability, and integrity. I am committed to building a community that cares and celebrates together. I will bring fresh energy and a strong community-focussed vision into decision making, with a clear focus on the needs of Lockwood ward residents.

My priorities are strengthening the local economy, easing cost-of-living pressures, preserving our natural reserves and cultural heritage and ensuring our community remains safe, happy and healthy.

In the council chambers, I am your trusted voice.

Visit https://ajay4lockwood.com.au/ for more details.

#Ajay4Lockwood

Authorised by Ajaykumar Mishra, PO Box 136, Marong, VIC 3515