Cr Geoff Akers (Pine Lodge Ward)

I have lived in the Pine Lodge ward all of my life having grown up at Orrvale, attended Melbourne University’s Dookie Campus and am now farming at Tallygaroopna.

I have a Bachelor of Applied Science and worked in Agricultural Science, before moving into Agricultural extension, working with farmers and educating them on farming practices, leading a team across Northern Victoria. I am a graduate of Australian Institute of Company Directors Chairperson course and Graduate of Australian Rural Leadership Program.

I am married to Natalie, and have two children who attend school locally. Considerable time is spent following junior tennis, cricket, football, gymnastics, and pony club activities. In partnership with Natalie, we operate a dairy farm at Tallygaroopna, milking 850 cows with the support of a much-valued team of staff.

I still play competitive tennis. I was made a life member of the Shepparton District tennis association in 2006 having spent 13 years as association President following five years of President at club level. I have also served terms a President of Shepparton Junior Tennis Association.

Agricultural Industry involvement has seen me represent farmers in an advocacy role at the United Dairy Farmers of Victoria and Australian Dairy Farmers. I have been involved in research and development having chaired the boards of Murray Dairy at a regional level and the Board of Dairy Australia at a National level, which saw me lead the organisation as it managed its $60 million budget. I have a strong understanding of irrigation as I was the Chairman of the Victorian Farmers Federation Water Council and was appointed by the Victorian Government to the Northern Victorian Irrigation Renewal Project (NVIRP) which led the $2 billion irrigation upgrade across Northern Victoria.

Today, I am actively involved in the executive of the Tallygaroopna Tennis Club, the local cattle club and Jersey Australia.

Working alongside my fellow Councillors, I aim to deliver value to ratepayers, delete red tape, speed up processes and seize opportunities for business and residents. I will work to help communities achieve their goals and protect farm water that grows our food and local economy.

Contact details

Phone: 0409 815 695
Email: geoff.akers@shepparton.vic.gov.au