Councillor Adrian Darakai

Adrian was born in Poowong and grew up there on a farm for the first 18 years of his life before heading to the big smoke to study and work.

South Gippsland called him back though, and he is now settled and happy with his wife Emily in Leongatha.

Adrian studied psychology, social work and speech pathology at university, and also has experience as a professional dancer and performer which he still dabbles in from time-to-time.

Once leaving university, Adrian worked for two state government departments to assist young people who were having a hard time. He has also volunteered with Red Cross Australia, Wesley Mission Victoria and Neighbourhood Watch.

Alongside his role as a Councillor, Adrian is currently the owner and director of a small business that specialises in speech pathology.

In his spare time, Adrian enjoys song writing, playing tennis, performing arts and gardening. He and his wife Emily are also occasionally foster carers, helping kids in their time of need.

Being a Councillor has also enabled him to become a Board Director with Myli Community Library that operates across Gippsland.

Adrian was inspired to run for Council to be a positive alternative for the South Gippsland community. With two of his relatives being heavily involved in Gippsland councils many years ago, Adrian was aware of how rewarding it would be to be part of positive change. Adrian wants nothing more than to represent his community at a local government level where he can see the results of decisions first-hand.