Ms Baljeu moved to Oberon over four years ago after a busy life working as a personal assistant for a law firm, graduating from university with a degree in psychology and running her own Kanimbla Valley equestrian and accommodation business.

"After selling the farm, I left Leura, and was what they call a ‘grey nomad’ for 18 months," she said.

"I came across a beautiful little property at Hazelgrove and it ticked all the boxes.

"I love Oberon and now I'm semi-retired - I'm here to stay."

Ms Baljeu said she nominated for council because she has time to do something for the community.

"I think councillor Kathy Sajowitz has done a wonderful job as mayor and her fight against forced amalgamation saw Oberon retain its independence,” she said.

"Kathy is always approachable and all councillors should listen to the people. We need a very open council - we need to listen and see if any ratepayer's problems can be sorted out."

Ms Baljeu said she is very interested in tourism and youth training.

"Jenolan Caves is a resource the Oberon community should be more involved in. I would like to see TAFE courses introduced for student training, whether it be in hospitality or engineering.

"Oberon should be able to attract more functions, such as dressage competitions that would bring money into the town.

"Oberon has enormous potential. It has good people, stable employment and dynamic aspects that can be further established and expanded. City people are screaming to get back to nature - and Oberon has it all.

"I would like to see council put in for more grants to get tourism on a roll - like the Oberon Tarana Heritage Railway."

Ms Baljeu said she feels there's exciting times ahead.

"I think it's time to give back to the community."