Aiming for a new high
KIRSTEN Moriarty is a journalist by day but she hopes on a wingsuit and a prayer to be part of the next Somerset Regional Council after tomorrow's election.
The extreme-sport enthusiast spends her leisure time strapped into her wingsuit, skydiving from high above the region she wants to represent.
Ms Moriarty's passion runs so deep for her thrillseeking hobby, she returned to it even after surviving a horrific accident nearly two years ago.
The 34-year-old hung from power lines for two hours at Mutdapilly in July 2010 after failing to see the obstacle during a jump. The accident left her hospitalised for three months.
With the recovery behind her, Ms Moriarty has donned her wingsuit again, returned to the sky and is looking for a career change.
She wants to play a part guiding the region's tourism and business futures.
Despite being the second youngest candidate, Ms Moriarty said her battle to overcome her injuries, combined with her professional experience, put her in good stead to represent the region.
"I have some very hard-earned wisdom because of my personal experiences, and I know life is too short to not pursue everything we want out here," she said.
"I promise to fight as hard as I can on behalf of our region and our residents, wherever possible, and everyone knows I am a fighter."
Ms Moriarty has age on her side and the energy to work hard to promote the Somerset region more broadly.
The candidate boasts a Masters of Journalism and Communications from the University of Queensland and a degree in Environmental Science.
