Cr Roberts cited representing what he believed to be issues in the community’s interest, and transparency and accountability, as high points.

He said people wanted to see someone to stand up for what they believed in.

“I can certainly walk out knowing that I gave 110 per cent to try to represent the best interests of the community on every issue,” he said.

“I never voted for something I didn’t believe in or hadn’t done enough homework on.”

Cr Roberts said there were missed opportunities with key projects that would have enhanced the area.

“The PCYC is a devastating loss for the community and something I fought passionately to try to have here,” he said.

Cr Roberts said there was also a shortfall in major project delivery.

He decided not to seek re-election in the belief he could be more effective pushing for fundamental change in local government from outside the organisation.

Cr Roberts advises election candidates to stand up and be counted.

“Go your hardest in pushing for genuine positive change,” he said.

Cr Roberts, on a personal note, is looking forward to the next chapter of life.

Meanwhile, Cr Trevor Sargeant will not seek another councillor term as he is moving to Young for family health reasons.

He advises candidates to understand the strong difference between strategic and operational matters.

“The big challenge as far as being a councillor is concerned, I have found, is you can continually spend much time on day to day issues,” Cr Sargeant said.

Cr Sargeant said being a councillor was well worth the investment of his time.

“My time on council, I would give it a seven out of 10,” he said.

Cr Sargeant said it had been a good council with diverse opinions and this particular council had been very effective.

Councillors Roberts and Sargeant will each step down after one term on Port Macquarie-Hastings Council.

The next group of elected council representatives will be decided in September.