“We are outnumbered greatly as far as constituents go so, you know so it is a big concern to make sure the outlying areas get their say, get their fair share of the pie,” he said.

“That’s my main reason I am running.” 

The 67-year-old “wouldn’t move from Braidwood for anything.” 

He was a stock, station and real estate agent from 1975 and handed the business down to his son five years ago.

His four sons have stayed in the district, and his daughter isn’t far just 50kms down the road in Nelligen.

“I’ve got 10 and a half grandchildren; Well, 10 and another one on the way,” he joked.  

"To me, Braidwood has everything. The number one feature is community. You know everyone, which is important. To keep that social structure alive it’s important we have the facilities and pride to do it.” 

If elected Mr Shoemark hopes to be “eyes and ears” for residents in Braidwood and relay local people’s needs, ideas and concerns to the council. 

“Braidwood is often the old story roads, rubbish and rates,” he said. 

“I’m an independent voice with no alliances. It’s just me looking to make sure Braidwood didn’t miss out in anyway without being greedy.”