Tom Crook is among the 21 candidates contesting the forthcoming East Gippsland Shire Council elections.

A father of two, Mr Crook, aged 42, has lived in East Gippsland for over twenty years.

He holds a science degree with a specialisation in forest management and is passionate about wanting to contribute to the community.

If elected, Mr Crook said he will be a “caring, cohesive force in the council and act with integrity.”