Steven Threlfall has announced his candidacy for Greater Shepparton City Council’s October election.
Owner of the Trelly’s fishing and hunting shops in Shepparton, Bendigo and Geelong, and a fifth-generation local, Mr Threlfall is well-known within the community.
While he hasn’t finalised his decision on which ward to contest, he is considering either the McEwen or Pine Lodge wards.
“I’ll be making up my mind by August,” Mr Threlfall said.
Mr Threlfall cited several reasons for wanting to run for council.
“I believe council has diverted too much from its role as far as dealing with council issues,” he said.
Mr Threlfall is passionate about the outdoors and representing the hunting and fishing communities. He feels particularly close to them thanks to his experience in business for the past 35 years.
“When you’re dealing in a retail space, you can only be successful by the way you treat people and return customers,” he said.
“I’ve had the trust of the people in retail. And those people we’ve dealt with over the years, then come back.
“They come and talk to me about problems that relate to my knowledge as far as what I do with hunting and fishing and the outdoor activities.”
Mr Threlfall wears several hats. When he’s not managing his businesses, he is actively involved in several local organisations.
His commitments include serving on the Victorian Environmental Water Holder Committee, the Recreational Fishing Licence Trust Advisory Committee and the Australian Fishing Trade Association.
Additionally, he is president of the Victorian Firearms Traders Association.
Mr Threlfall is particularly keen to take a stance on river level management, illegal wood cutting, recreational activities and tourism.