Dean Evers, Hope for the Homeless leader, to run for Coffs Harbour Mayor

The first prospective mayoral candidate in the September local government elections has thrown their hat in the ring. Will they get your vote?

Dean Evers with the NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian after being presented a community service award on October 26, 2020.

Hope For the Homeless founder Dean Evers has put his hand up to be Coffs Harbour Mayor.

The former Department of Community Services worker is the first person to officially throw their hat in the ring for the September elections which were delayed a year due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

Mr Evers is well known for founding local community organisation Hope for the Homeless more than five years ago, which offers assistance and advocacy to vulnerable people on the Coffs Coast.

It has also significantly expanded its retail arm, operating five outlets.

Mr Evers was recently recognised with a Community Service Award from the NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian.

In a statement released through social media, Mr Evers said he was excited to be running at the encouragement of family and friends.

“This campaign is not about me. It is about the people that make up our great city. I just want to provide a city where people can safely live, work, and play,” he said.

“I will work to restore your trust in government and work with you to move this city forward together. Strong leadership without hidden agendas. Measured and considered actions not just words. Working together with you to grow our beautiful city.”

While he is the first Mayoral candidate, Mr Evers is the second person to announce they will nominate for a place on Coffs Harbour City Council after Woolgoolga resident and former state Labor candidate Tony Judge.