He has been a Greater Shepparton resident his whole life, being born in the old Mooroopna Hospital but now residing in Kialla Lakes.
“It’s home and I strongly believe that if you’re going to represent a ward, you live in that ward,” Mr Gosstray said.
“So, I’ve enjoyed my time there, it’s just a good spot to live.”
This isn’t his first rodeo, having worked in local government for more than a quarter of a century.
“I’ve had a long history in local government,” Mr Gosstray said.
“I’ve actually worked in local government for 30-odd years, and 20 of those here.
“I managed the recreation and parks and a whole lot of things, cemeteries, so I have a lot of experience.”
His reason for running for council is unique, with a health concern inspiring him.
“Eighteen months ago I had a bilateral lung transplant,” Mr Gosstray said.
“So, things were pretty grim, and it’s a bit about paying a bit back.
“The other thing is, I just think council need a little bit of a reform — getting back to basics.
“I think we spread council too far without the funding to do it.”
He said that although he was running in Kialla, he would strive to represent the whole of Greater Shepparton.
“It’s not so much about improvements in Kialla, but it’s about things broader in Greater Shepparton,” Mr Gosstray said.
“What I want to do is make some difference.”
He said that one of his priorities was resourcing smaller communities in Greater Shepparton.
“It’s also about all those small local towns,” he said.
“I think we can be a bit Shepp-centric in terms of our funding and our focus.
“We should give a bit back to those small rural communities and regional towns, they deserve a better share.”
Mr Gosstray said that his reason for staying in the region was his family and the event culture.
“Family is number one,” he said.
“However, one of the best kept secrets in the place is the Goulburn River.
“If you get on that water, it’s fantastic.
“I also love how we are an event city.”
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