Local small business woman, farmer and volunteer firefighter, Dr Fiona Kotvojs, is the Liberal candidate for the upcoming by-election in the state seat of Bega.
Born in Bega, Fiona grew up at the family farm in Dignams Creek at the heart of the electorate – where she and her husband Alan still live and farm.
"This has always been, and will always be, my home and I want to see Bega Valley and Eurobodalla prosper," said Dr Kotvojs. "Under our current local Member, Andrew Constance, so much has been delivered for the community, and I want to continue his hard work."
"From upgrades to our local roads, like the Princes Highway, to securing funding for the new Eurobodalla Hospital and Bega TAFE, and improving local amenities all across this region, Andrew's hard work has helped to make this region great."
"The fires, COVID pandemic and now floods, have taken a significant toll on our local businesses, communities, and so many individuals. We need to continue delivering support that is helping us to recovery and come back stronger."
"Beyond the pandemic, I want to make sure that we get the services, local infrastructure, financial support and opportunities that our communities deserve – I will continue Andrew's hard work as a strong and effective voice in the Perrottet Government. Bega Valley and Eurobodalla recovery needs a strong, stable and experienced government, and voting for anyone else puts that at risk."
Premier Dominic Perrottet congratulated Dr Kotvojs on her selection as Bega's Liberal candidate, describing her as an impressive candidate with deep commitment to her local community.
"I need someone of Fiona's experience and tenacity on my team to make sure Andrew's great work in this electorate and state is continued."
Starting her career as a high school teacher, Fiona attained a Doctorate in Education, a Masters Degree in Business, and a Science Degree. She is an experienced small businesswoman, running three small businesses.
"I want to apply my diverse experience to helping solve the challenges currently facing this community. Assessing and improving delivery of government programs in health, education and tourism, has been part of my job and I want to apply this experience to programs affecting local businesses and people."
Fiona spent eight years in the Army Reserve, a decade volunteering as a Lifeline counsellor, and for more than fifteen years she's been a volunteer with the Cobargo Rural Fire Service. She was also a Director of Oxfam, has worked on disaster recovery in developing nations, is active in her local church and volunteers at two local primary schools
