THE people of Division 2 are passionate about their region and another local is set to shake up the council.

Paul McCarragher has thrown his hat into the ring and decided to run in next year's local government elections.

"I have lived and worked in this area for 17 years," he said

He and his wife Arendina moved to the region from the Redland Shire when he left the army after 12 years' service.

The husband, father and grandfather has worked tirelessly for his community, and believes he can improve and support others.

He has had various occupations from used and new car salesman to insurance salesman.

Mr McCarragher was lucky enough to get work in a foundry that set him up as he moved from labourer to master welder in a few short years, leading to his own welding and fabrication business.

"I do have a tendency to be less than politically correct, and this is what is needed if we are to hold our own in the Bundaberg Regional Council," he said.

"I make no promises about making the sky bluer or the grass greener but I do promise to be the voice of this division," he said.

"As I am now retired and many would see it as folly to forgo this to enter the field of politics.

"This division has been taken for granted and I feel it's time I stand up for the people of this division who pay rates, employ people and live here in expectation that we be given a fair go.

"I say we because although it is me running for office it helps when one's partner is there behind for moral support and encouragement.

"It's time, while not promising be successful in all endeavours, that the people of this division were stopped being taken for granted and listened to and I hope to be the one to take these and other issues that affect this division to council in 2016.

"I will be making myself available to anyone with questions as to my intentions and aspirations for this division, but more importantly, what you expect and want to happen."