councillor profile

Cr John White

Current Councillor
Councillor Details
Elected Terms: 
2016-20; 2020-24; 2024-28
Served as Mayor: 
2019-20; 2024-25

I moved to the Fernbank area in 1973 as an 18-year-old with my parents and got to work immediately.  

I have long been engaged in the local community, particularly through local sporting club committees, playing and coaching, and the Country Fire Authority (member for 50 years). Most of the friendships established through contributing to the community in those early years remain current to this day.  

I met and later married Leanne Edwards in 1977 and we have three children – Justin, Cindy and Tamara. Farming in our own right since 1979, we continue to operate our sheep, cattle and cropping farm in the Lindenow South and Fernbank area.  

Passionate about the opportunities in East Gippsland, I stood for Council because I believe as a councillor you should be approachable, be able to listen to ratepayers, and help foster solutions that make a difference to Council and the community.

I believe in transparency, fairness, and advocating for all residents, and I’m honoured to continue serving our community.

I want to fill empty shops, ensure affordable housing, and make planning decisions that are fair and just. I am committed to keeping rate rises low by finding savings in Council budgets, improving infrastructure like footpaths and gravel roads, and ensuring responsible management of Council finances.

East Gippsland, there is nowhere else you would want to live.


Committee and group responsibilities
  • Agriculture Sector Advisory Committee
  • Rail Freight Alliance

Articles featuring this Councillor

Council backing small businesses with digital skills program
Community feedback guides revised Council Vision
Indoor sports hub a step closer for Lakes
Calls to scrap new State levy
Strong community turnout for Lakes Entrance project openings
Lakes Entrance to celebrate foreshore revitalisation
East Gippsland welcomes 15 new Aussie citizens
Prosperity, opportunity and pride – Ambassador raises a glass to East Gippsland
Local volunteers honoured at East Gippsland Australia Day Awards
Council to enhance flood resilience of Omeo’s Livingstone Park