When officially opening the High Street office yesterday, she said its doors were open for those needing help and others looking to become involved in politics.

“It’s taken a long time, but I’m really pleased to have it,” Ms McGowan said.

“This area will be part of the growth of Wodonga so I am pleased to be in the main street of the central business area.

“It’s a symbol of confidence in Wodonga and the business part of Wodonga.”

Ms McGowan said she was keen to encourage volunteers to work on solutions to regional problems.

“Representation is my job, but others can connect with people, understand the issues, and work on solutions,” she said.

“So when I go to Parliament I can be solutions-focused and talk to the government about what might work for rural and regional Australia.”

Ms McGowan yesterday spoke of her experiences during the election campaign and her time so far in office.

She already has a Wangaratta office and a mobile office to tour the electorate.

The Wodonga site is located near Tristar Medical.