Local Millicent mediator Mark Braes has been announced as SA Labor’s candidate contesting the 2022 State Election in the seat of MacKillop.

The former Wattle Range Mayor and NRM chairman will take on Liberal incumbent Nick McBride at the March 19 poll.

Mr Braes has worked as a lawyer in private practice, as a family and workplace mediator in the not-for-profit charity sector, and as a conciliation officer with the SA Workers Compensation Tribunal.

He now runs his own local mediation business, Braes Mediation Solutions.

Mr Braes and wife Lisa raised their son Oliver in Millicent and maintain strong local ties to the community they live in and love.

He has been active in community affairs in Millicent and the Wattle Range region through memberships of charities, service clubs and other local committees.

Mr Braes has held leadership roles locally in Regional Development and Natural Resource Management and has contributed to many statewide boards and committees.

Mr Braes said he was looking forward to raising issues within his electorate.

“I will work towards preserving and sustaining the environmental advantages of the Limestone Coast, Coorong and Southern Mallee,” he said.

“I want to ensure the many diverse communities within MacKillop have equitable access to medical, social and community services.

“This is essential for economic development.”

Labor leader Peter Malinauskas praised the MacKillop candidate.

“Mark is a long-standing, committed local who has a track record in representing, advocating and delivering for his local community,” Mr Malinauskas said.

“I’m excited to welcome Mark to our team of energetic candidates focussed on building a better future for South Australia.”