THE election race reminds Scott Turner of a football season.
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Mr Turner knows it will only get more intense once he reaches the business end of the season with the election in November.
The Nationals candidate for Ripon, and 144-game veteran of the Richmond Football Club, prides himself on being a country boy through and through.
Aside from the stint in the AFL, Mr Turner has based himself in the Ararat community, coaching children and still pulling on the boots once in a while.
"I just loved the town, loved the country towns and the Ripon electorate is part of me through football and it was just a great opportunity and one I couldn't say no to," he said.
Mr Turner was approached by former VFL footballer and MP Hugh Delahunty who asked him to get involved with politics.
"It was a bit of a surprise I suppose. It was something I thought about with family and friends but didn't jump straight at it," he said.
"I thought about it for a while, and just loved the opportunity. I love being out and about and I am a country boy at heart."
Improving recreation facilities and dealing with unemployment across the region were two of the biggest issues across the large electorate, according to Mr Turner.
"Being a local always helps and my passion is for local people. I have played football in the Wimmera and in the Northern Centrals," he said.
"I am one of those guys who is born and bred in the bush and hopefully I will get to see it grow in the future."
Q&A
How should we make our community safer?
I think bigger support from our Victorian Police I suppose, morning, day and night. Having more of those on the streets to protect our elderly or young and also especially in our country areas (to deal with) the drug issues.
What impact, positive or negative, will the Ballarat West Employment Zone have on Ripon?
I think it will be very positive for our Ripon electorate. Obviously when the building is finished, jobs available, (and) in the making progress, jobs also.
What action should be taken on climate change?
Today's living I suppose, climate change is the way we live from now to the future. We see a lot of people now not throwing away their waste, they are re-using it, which is good for our environment.
Do you think same-sex marriage should be legal?
Mate, whatever they want to do. I am all for it, I am not against it. It is up to the individual themselves or the couple themselves to enjoy their lives together and so be it.
Do you think abortion should be legal and available to all women?
Once again I support it and I don't support it. Laws and legislation are there to be made and whatever is the go at the moment, I agree with.
What is the biggest infrastructure priority for Ballarat?
I think the buildings available, manufacturing obviously is a big part of country living, it is where I work at the moment being in the manufacturing side of it, a very farming and header environment.
Should tomato sauce be free with a meat pie?
Yes I agree.
The Beatles or Rolling Stones?
The Beatles.
What's your favourite TV show?
I am a good old Aussie soap (fan), I would say Home and Away.
What's your favourite meal?
Can't beat a roast chicken.