MELBOURNE–born Russell James has mostly lived in Canberra.
"It is a bit of a cliché, but my wife and I did the 'tree change' thing and moved to Beechworth a year ago," he said.
What's your job?
I recently retired from my natural resources policy job in Canberra. I work part–time at a local winery, which I enjoy immensely.
What brought you to this role?
I wanted a hands–on role – a change from office work.
What do you love about your job?
The winery practises organic and biodynamic methods of production. Their commitment to quality and sustainability is really impressive.
What do you do in the community?
I have joined a few groups over the past year – the local Landcare group, the rural CFA and the Beechworth Old Cranks Car Club.
Each group has been really welcoming.
I have owned a 1972 VW Beetle for 10 years.
My first car 40 years ago was a '71 model, so I feel like I am making progress!
Beetles are great cars – a bit out of the box.
You can't be in a bad mood when driving a Beetle!
What's the most important current community issue for you?
I think an important challenge is how to manage the level and pace of future development in the region.
I think it notable how well the region has to date struck the balance between respecting its history and having access to a great range of local facilities and businesses.
How do we keep the right balance over the next 50 years?
What would you do to solve, change or improve that situation?
I am no expert, but I think we can look elsewhere for examples of things to avoid – such as fast food outlets.
With a growing population we need higher density development – smaller houses on smaller blocks.
Using good design we could include 'commons' areas for recreation or community gardens.
We could also do more to improve energy efficiency through better house design and orientation.
What's the most important current world issue for you?
I think many global issues stem from over–population.
Everyone deserves a good quality of life, but as we can see with climate change, the planet can't continue to support unfettered growth in resource use.
It is a tricky discussion, but one that needs to be had.
If the person you would most like to meet came to Indigo, or was already here, who would that be and what would you show them?
I would love to meet Jacinda Ardern and show her around.
We could start with some local history and a bushwalk – perhaps the Eldorado Dredge and Mt Pilot.
Afterwards – a sample of our great shops and cafes, and one of the almost weekly festivals that are on at this time of year.
I am sure she would enjoy the Drive Back in Time Festival which is on in May each year and attracts around 200 historic vehicles from the region and beyond.
Why would you show her that?
To showcase a regional community that has a lot to offer ... and to convince her to apply for a job over here!
What book are you reading?
'The Anarchy – the Relentless Rise of the East India Company' by William Dalrymple.
It tells the story of the rise of the first global corporation – the greed and unfettered power.
A cautionary tale for our times.
