Kinglake’s Anthony Rolando, pictured with his wife Julia and daughter Phoebe, will run for The Nationals in Seymour.
By Melissa Meehan
A KINGLAKE businessman and father of three whose life was changed forever by the Black Saturday bushfires will stand for The Nationals in the seat of Seymour at the 27 November state election.
Anthony Rolando lost his successful local fertiliser and seed business on 7 February last year.
Since then, like many bushfire survivors, he has battled government bureaucracy and red tape while trying to re-establishing his business.
Mr Rolando continues to work in the agricultural sector providing agronomic support to farming enterprises across the region.
“Whilst I live in Kinglake, I have developed a strong working knowledge of the whole of the Seymour electorate through the many associations I have developed with my business,” Mr Rolando said.
The 41-year-old said he wanted to contest the election because he felt he could make a difference in the seat of Seymour.
“There is an enormous feeling of being left in limbo in this region when what is needed is activity and focus,” he said.
“Houses are not being rebuilt quickly and there are only a few shops going up.
“I am very aware of the challenges facing our community and I am extremely motivated to help advance the best interests of local families, farmers and businesses.”
Leader of The Nationals Peter Ryan welcomed Mr Rolando’s addition to The Nationals team and said he would make an outstanding contribution to Parliament.
“Anthony has a strong understanding of business, agricultural and bushfire recovery issues.”
Anthony is currently co-managing a newly formed clothing business with his wife Julia that manufactures garments to be worn by hospitalised and post surgery babies and toddlers.
