Vote 1

BASS COAST SHIRE Council

Candidate for the Bunurong Ward

Who Am I?

Why I’m ​Running

KEY ​PRIORITIES

How to Create ​Change

FAQ

Contact Me

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Why I’m Running

I’m running because the status quo hasn’t worked. Year after ​year, we’ve faced the same issues—rising fees, neglected ​services, broken promises, and footpaths that lead to nowhere. ​The council has had its chance to act, but we’re still stuck in ​the same cycle of debate, delays, excuses, and repeat.

It’s time for new leadership that truly represents you, cuts ​through the red tape, and focuses on delivering results. Your ​opinions matter and I’m here to ensure your voice is heard and ​represented at council. Use me to amplify your true voice—I ​will always be your advocate, working for solutions that reflect ​our community’s needs. Together, we can create meaningful ​change.

Roads & Infrastructure

Beach Erosion & Surf Club

Cost of Living

Business & Agriculture

Local Sports Teams

Local Community Service

As your independent candidate, I understand that neglected roads, dangerous potholes and limited parking are affecting ​both safety and quality of life in our community. These issues are no longer just inconveniences—they pose real risks and ​frustrations that impact everyone.

Fixing dangerous and vehicle-damaging potholes is a top priority.

These potholes not only have the potential to cause accidents and vehicle damage but also create hazards for cyclists and ​pedestrians. I will push for immediate repairs on the most hazardous and frequently used roads. Our community has waited ​too long for these essential fixes and we need action now.

In addition, our community has outgrown the current parking infrastructure. With increased growth and demand, parking in ​key areas—whether near businesses, public services, or schools—has become a significant challenge. I will advocate for ​expanding and improving parking facilities, especially in high-traffic zones, to ensure residents and visitors can easily ​access the services they need.

Beyond these immediate needs, I will focus on:

• Long-term road maintenance to prevent recurring issues and reduce future costs.
  
• Sustainable planning that accounts for our community’s growth, ensuring we have adequate infrastructure and parking ​to support our future.
  
• Involving residents in decisions to ensure that the most critical areas receive attention first.
  

Why This Matters

Safe, accessible roads and parking are vital to the well-being of our community. Neglecting these issues affects everything ​from daily commutes to business access, and with our community growing, we can’t afford to let these problems worsen.

Taking proactive steps to repair our infrastructure and improve parking will make our community safer, more convenient, ​and better prepared for the future.

Our beaches define who we are—they're central to our community’s identity and vital to our local economy. But right now, ​they're under serious threat. Recent storm damage and coastal erosion aren’t just wearing away our coastline—they're ​putting the Surf Life Saving Club at risk, a crucial part of keeping residents and visitors safe on our beaches.

The Surf Life Saving Club does far more than provide safety; it’s the cornerstone of our community. For years, its dedicated ​volunteers have worked tirelessly to protect beachgoers, ensuring everyone—locals and tourists alike—can enjoy our ​coastline safely. The club also supports local children with programs like Nippers, teaching them vital water safety skills and ​fostering a love for the beach from a young age.

But with the damage we’re seeing now, we risk losing not just the club and our coastline, but also critical infrastructure, ​including roads. Without swift action, these losses will hurt both safety and accessibility, with ripple effects on our local ​economy and tourism. Losing the surf club would be a devastating blow to our community.

It’s not just about beach safety—this club embodies volunteerism, strengthens our sense of community and enriches our ​local identity. It’s an irreplaceable part of what makes this area special and we must act now to protect it.

My Commitment to Fixing Coastal Erosion and Supporting the Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club

As your independent candidate, with no ideology to appease, I am focused on addressing coastal erosion, protecting the ​Surf Life Saving Club and safeguarding our infrastructure in a practical and timely manner.

This is a controversial topic, but if we don’t act now, the outcome is certain—and it’s not what we want for our community.

I believe the Surf Life Saving Club should have the final say in its future. The volunteers and leaders who run the club know ​best what is needed to keep it thriving. That’s why I will ensure key members of the club are involved in making decisions ​about its needs.

I will take their priorities directly to the council and advocate on their behalf. The club plays an essential role in keeping our ​beaches safe and supporting community programs and I will work hard to secure the resources and funding needed to ​protect this vital part of our community.

Rising costs are a major concern for residents of Bunurong Ward. Over the years, we’ve seen increases in ​council rates, fees and levies such as the fire services levy. These rising costs put more pressure on families, ​seniors and businesses, making it harder to manage day-to-day expenses.

As your independent candidate, I am committed to holding the council accountable and ensuring that these ​funds are used efficiently and transparently.

What Our Community Needs

• Scrutiny of Rate Increases: While some increases may be unavoidable, I will push for greater scrutiny of ​any rate hikes, ensuring that they are justified and necessary. Ratepayers deserve to know where their ​money is going and how it benefits the community.
  

• Review of Fees and Levies: The fire services levy and other council fees have steadily increased, adding to ​the financial burden on households. I will advocate for regular reviews of these charges to ensure they are ​fair and proportionate.
  

• Ensuring Efficient Use of Funds: Too often, council funds are spent on projects that don’t deliver ​tangible benefits to the community. I will work to eliminate wasteful spending and ensure that ratepayer ​money is directed to projects and services that genuinely improve the lives of residents.
  

Why This Matters

Cost-of-living pressures affect everyone, from families to seniors. By holding the council accountable for ​how it spends ratepayer money, we can help ease these burdens and make sure funds are spent wisely ​and for the benefit of the entire community.

I will NEVER support removal of Rates cap!

Local businesses and agriculture are essential to Bunurong Ward’seconomy. From small family-owned ​shops to farms, these sectors provide jobs and services that sustain our community. As a council ​candidate, I will focus on achievable actions to support local business growth and agricultural success.

What Our Community Needs

• Business-Friendly Local Policies: Small businesses often face challenges like regulatory hurdles ​and rising costs. I will work to simplify council processes, such as permits and compliance, to make ​it easier for businesses to operate. I’ll also champion efficient pathways for business expansion ​without unnecessary council bureaucracy.
  

• Improving Digital Connectivity: Reliable internet access is essential for both businesses and ​farms. I will advocate for better digital infrastructure to help local enterprises grow, use modern ​tools and reach broader markets.
  

• Supporting Local Agriculture: The council can support farmers by improving local infrastructure, ​such as road maintenance and signage. I will also simplify the process for farm expansions and ​developments, ensuring zoning regulations don’t hinder growth. Additionally, I will explore ​options for rate relief during tough times, like droughts or natural disasters, to ease financial ​pressure on farmers.
  

Why This Matters

By improving infrastructure, reducing red tape, and advocating for local business and agriculture, we ​can strengthen our community’s economic foundation. Supporting these sectors will benefit everyone ​who lives and works in Bunurong Ward.

Local sports teams are the heart of our community. They bring people together, promote physical health, and foster ​a sense of belonging across all ages. As your candidate, I understand the importance of supporting our sports teams​—not just for recreation but for building a stronger, more connected community in Bunurong Ward.

What Our Community Needs

• Upgraded Sports Facilities: Many of our local sports facilities are outdated and don’t meet the needs of the ​growing community. Some teams are forced to share changing rooms with the opposition or even change ​outside. I will advocate for better funding to upgrade these facilities, ensuring they are safe, modern, and able to ​accommodate a wide range of activities for all age groups.
  

• Increased Funding for Youth Sports Programs: Encouraging young people to stay active and engaged ​through sports is crucial for their development. I will push for expanded youth sports programs that provide ​affordable and accessible options for all families.
  

• Support for Senior and Adult Leagues: Sports aren’t just for kids. I will work to ensure that adults and seniors ​also have access to recreational leagues and fitness programs, promoting health and social connection across all ​age groups.
  

Why This Matters

Local sports aren’t just about competition—they’re about community. Supporting sports teams means giving ​everyone a chance to stay active, healthy, and connected.

By investing in better facilities and expanding programs, we can ensure that Bunurong Ward remains a place where ​everyone, from children to seniors, has the opportunity to participate and thrive.

Investing in our children and youth is essential to securing a brighter future for our community. Bunurong ​Ward has grown, but services for children and young people have not kept pace. As your independent ​candidate, I will ensure that our community provides the resources and support young people need to thrive.

What Our Community Needs

• Expanded Youth Programs: We need more programs that engage our youth in sports, arts and ​leadership, giving them valuable life skills.
  

• Access to Mental Health Support: Today’s youth face growing pressures. I will advocate for better ​access to youth mental health resources, ensuring no young person has to face issues on their own.
  

• Improved Facilities: Our current youth facilities are outdated and underfunded. I will push for ​investment in safe, modern spaces for children to learn, grow and socialise.
  

A Collaborative Approach

Parents, schools and youth should help shape the services we provide. By working together, we can ensure ​that programs and facilities meet the real needs of our young people.

Why This Matters

Supporting youth services isn’t just about immediate needs—it’s about investing in our community’s future. ​When we provide opportunities for young people to succeed, we build a stronger, more resilient community ​for all.

Join the Conversation

I encourage parents, schools, and community members to share their ideas. Let’s work together to improve ​youth services and build a better future.

Our elderly community members deserve dignity, respect, and access to services that help them stay active and ​connected. As your independent candidate, I am committed to ensuring that Bunurong Ward offers practical, ​community-driven services for seniors that improve their quality of life.

What Our Community Needs

• Better Access to Local Health Services: While councils don’t manage healthcare directly, I will work to ​advocate for better coordination between local health providers and council services, making sure seniors are ​aware of the resources available to them, including transport options for medical appointments.
  

• Upgraded Community Facilities: Many of our community centers and facilities used by seniors need ​improvements. I will push for funding to upgrade these spaces, ensuring they are safe, accessible, and equipped ​to meet the needs of our aging population.
  

• Expanded Social and Recreational Programs: Councils can play a key role in supporting community programs ​that keep seniors engaged, active, and socially connected. I will work to support and expand initiatives such as ​exercise classes, social groups, and educational workshops that promote senior well-being.
  

A Practical Approach

The council's role in elderly services should be about providing the right infrastructure and fostering partnerships ​with local service providers. By working together with the community, I aim to create a more inclusive environment ​for seniors to thrive.

Why This Matters

Caring for our elderly isn’t just about services—it’s about ensuring they feel valued and included in community life. ​By focusing on practical improvements, we can enhance the lives of our seniors and ensure they remain connected ​and supported.

How Proportional Voting Works

In Bunurong Ward, your vote doesn’t just go to your first preference—it flows to other candidates based on ​how you rank them. If a candidate doesn’t reach the quota of votes, their votes are redistributed based on ​preferences. Even if your first choice doesn’t win, your vote can still influence who gets elected.

The Impact of Preferences

Candidates lower on the ballot can win if they ​receive enough second or third preferences. ​Preferences matter—they can boost candidates who ​may not have the most first-preference votes. ​Ranking all candidates helps ensure your vote has ​the greatest impact, and this is essential if we want ​to replace the established politicians who’ve had ​their time in council.

Your Vote Counts

I’ve been drawn as position 6 out of 9. Even if I’m not ​your first choice, consider giving me and other ​independents a chance by allocating your preferences ​to candidates with fresh ideas for real change. Every ​preference counts, and if we want change, we need to ​change it. Thoughtful voting brings independent ​voices and progress for our community.

Together, we can ensure this election isn’t decided by ​default. Thoughtful voting can create the change ​Bunurong needs.

Why are you running for council now?

Our community has been stuck in a cycle of delays and inaction for ​too long. After nearly 15 years here, I’ve seen the problems firsthand​—crumbling roads, underfunded sports teams, unnecessary ​bureaucracy and ignored community concerns. When faced with ​these challenges, I knew I couldn’t sit back any longer. It’s time for ​new leadership that listens and delivers real solutions. I’m running ​because Bass Coast deserves better, and the future depends on ​action, not more talk.

What makes you different from other candidates?

I’m 100% independent. I’m not tied to political parties, special ​interests, or ideologies that don’t benefit our community. My only ​loyalty is to you—primarily the Bunurong Ward and the broader ​Bass Coast. My independence, combined with decades of leadership ​experience, is my greatest strength and what truly sets me apart ​from the rest. I’m here to represent your voice and deliver the ​change you deserve.

How will you address the state of our roads and ​infrastructure?

Potholes and crumbling roads aren’t just frustrating—they’re a ​safety hazard. I’ll push for immediate repairs and long-term ​solutions. We need to stop wasting time on temporary fixes and ​invest in infrastructure that lasts. No more patchwork repairs—we ​need durable, well-planned solutions to ensure safer roads for ​everyone. I’ll make sure that the funds allocated for road ​maintenance are used efficiently, addressing the most pressing ​issues first.

What is your plan to protect our beaches and the Surf ​Life Saving Club?

Coastal erosion is an immediate threat, and we don’t have time to ​waste. There are at least a decade’s worth of reports sitting with the ​council, filled with potential solutions that need to be seriously ​considered and acted on. The Inverloch Surf Life Saving Club is ​more than just a safety hub—it’s central to our community’s identity ​and tourism. I will push for immediate action and make sure those ​solutions are prioritised, so we can protect both the club and our​ coastline before it’s too late.​

How will you support local sports teams?

Our local sports teams are struggling with outdated facilities—some ​teams even have to share changing rooms with the opposition. ​That’s unacceptable. Strong sports teams build strong communities. ​With upgraded facilities, we’ll give our young athletes and ​community members the resources they need to grow, excel, and ​take pride in their achievements. I’ll push for immediate upgrades ​so that our teams and clubs can thrive, and the community can take ​pride in their success.

What are your plans for youth services?

The youth are the future of Bass Coast, and they deserve better ​opportunities. I’ll fight for more funding to expand youth programs ​and create spaces where young people can thrive, grow and stay ​connected to the community.

How will you address the rising cost of living?

Families in Bass Coast are feeling the pressure of rising fees and ​rates. I’ll hold the council accountable for how it spends your ​money, ensuring it goes where it’s needed most. We need to stop ​wasting funds and focus on easing the financial burden for local ​families.

What will you do to help local businesses and farmers?

Local businesses and farmers are the backbone of our community, ​but they’re often held back by excessive red tape and lack of ​support. I’ll focus on cutting unnecessary red tape in areas like ​planning approvals and permits, so businesses and farmers can ​focus on what they do best—growing and serving the community.

How will you support seniors in the community?

Our seniors deserve more than just the basics. They deserve ​programs that keep them active, social and part of the community. ​I’ll work to enhance services for seniors, ensuring they stay ​connected, cared for and valued.

How will you communicate with the voters if elected?

I will be transparent and accessible. I’ll use social media to keep you ​informed and, where possible, provide a behind-the-scenes look at ​what’s happening in council. Your voice will always be heard and ​amplified.