The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the south-west has prompted former state MP James Purcell to put his hand up for election to the Moyne Shire.
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Mr Purcell was a council director before later being elected as a councillor to the Moyne Shire for six years.
He also served two terms as mayor.
He was elected to the state upper house under his party Vote 1 Jobs, but at the last election lost out on a seat in parliament when he made a tilt for the lower house.
"Originally I had no intention of running but when COVID broke out I thought I really should think about using the contacts I've got because it's going to be a fairly hard road out of it," Mr Purcell said.
He said his main focus on council would be to use his contacts in parliament and all levels of government to make certain "we don't miss out".
"It's going to be a tough time for local government to get heard because everyone is going to be making a lot of noise and unless you make a bit of noise you're not going to get anything," Mr Purcell said.
He said he would like to continue some of the work he has done in raising money for upgrades for hospitals.
"Mortlake hospital is certainly one I've had discussions wit in regards to getting some funding," Mr Purcell said.
"The Princes Highway between Warrnambool and Port Fairy definitely needs upgrading, so I'll be looking to do that."
He is also focused on making sure the shire's clubs and events survive the impact of the pandemic.
"They're going to need a bit of help to get through it.
"Whether it's through the council or whether it's through other levels of government we need to make certain they get through," Mr Purcell said.
He said he was already helping some businesses to make contact with government ministers and try and retain and creating jobs.
"Creating jobs will be a big factor in all of this to make sure our businesses survive through it all," he said.
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