Each was asked to nominate what their communities identified as the most important issues leading up to this weekend’s federal election.

Health was identified as the major issue of concern, followed by economic management and job creation (15 per cent), communications, mobile phone coverage and internet access (15 per cent) and education (9.8 per cent).

Most of those issues, among others, will be on the minds of central Victorians when they present at polling booths this weekend.

They will be voting for the person, and party, they believe shows commitment to growing central Victoria.

Whatever the outcome on Saturday, we hope our future leaders recognise the need for appropriate technology and communications to ensure the growth of our region.

Adequate mobile phone coverage and high-speed internet access for all homes, businesses and schools is a priority. This not only ensures we continue to be in a position to compete with outside markets at a business level, but also that our young people have access to the same education and possibilities as those in metropolitan areas.  And, it would literally save lives. We have patches across central Victoria where emergency services cannot communicate.

We need leaders who will recognise how difficult it is for young people in particular to find work. We don't want short-term solutions, we need policies that will work various industries to create growth and opportunity.  We need education to reflect the different areas of growth and the needs of all children, to ensure we are giving each and every one of them the best chance to not only be employed, but have the opportunity to lead healthy, independent rewarding lives.

Investing in education and young people is a solid investment in our future. Creating jobs and opportunities will ensure that investment is returned by keeping those young people in our region.

The Bendigo Advertiser  has asked each of the candidates for the federal seat of Bendigo for their vision for Bendigo. Today, we publish two of those opinions and will continue to publish two each day until Friday – with the hope it helps you make an informed decision about your vote.

Nicole Ferrie, editor