NEXT year's council elections are spurring on local residents to step up and have a go.

Childers has a second candidate for the position of mayor - Elise Cottam.

Mrs Cottam says she is willing to do what it takes for the residents of the Bundaberg region.

"I believe I have what it takes to do the job," Mrs Cottam said.

As a past mortgage broker, Mrs Cottam has used her knowledge and skill to help out other locals in need.

A family from Apple Tree Creek were at the point of losing their family home but with the right guidance, Mrs Cottam made a difference to the entire family and they got to keep their home.

"I can relate to everyone. I'm a wife, mother, a grandmother, a business owner and I had struggles and I work hard as an SES volunteer," Mrs Cottam said.

As the wear and tear on local roads seems to be getting worse, Mrs Cottam said the region needed upgrades and improvements to infrastructure and she felt she could create change.

Her passion for the region and her community is worth celebrating, as she works tirelessly as a trainer to inform and educate the community on safety and preparing for storms.

Earlier this year, Mrs Cottam took time out to help someone in desperate need get work by teaching Trevor Lewis the correct procedure to use and operate chainsaws.

In turn, it helped him acquire a job, and he now supports his family.

Over a period of seven months, she campaigned for Camp Quality to raise $15,000 for charity, all in her own time.

"I want to show my children, you can do anything if you try," she said.

The proud mum said it was important to set a good example for young women, and encourages her girls to aim high.

"I believe I am a good role model and I am always willing to help in any way I can," she said.

Mrs Cottam was in car accident and broke her arm. She still made the effort and showed up to help out on a council clean-up day.

"It was only a minor break - that wasn't going to stop me," she said.

She believes she has what it takes and is looking to the community of Childers for support.

Her strong passions prompt her to get the emergency services up and running again after it was closed down by former Premier Campbell Newman years before.

The PCYC contacted Mrs Cottam to assist it with reinstating the cadets program. It worked and now the children have the opportunity to be active.

"If I get the position of mayor, I am not going to accept the $186,000 income," she said.