Bayside Council 2024: Meet the candidates running in this year’s election
Business owners, parents, new faces and returning councillors are just some of the candidates vying for a seat on Bayside Council. Take a look at who’s running in your ward.
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With less than one month before the 2024 local government elections on September 14, residents are gearing up to head to polling booths across the state.
There are 15 spots up for grabs on Bayside Council and a number of candidates, new and returning, are throwing their hats into the ring.
Bayside Council is separated into five wards and does not hold mayoral elections.
We have reached out to each candidate to understand who they are, what they stand for and why they are running for election.
Ward 1 – Botany, Banksmeadow, Pagewood, Hillsdale, Eastgardens, East Lakes and Daceyville
Christina Curry – Labor
Christina is seeking to be re-elected to the Bayside Council. She was also the first female mayor of the council, and has been awarded the Elected Representative Award in the Metro Division of the 2022 Ministers Awards for Women in Local Government.
Why should locals vote for you?
I am dedicated and an experienced local councillor, consistently advocating for a fair share for our community. Scott, Jo and I work tirelessly every day to enhance our area and improve local services.
Our commitment is championing enhanced local services, advocating for essential community infrastructure, expanding and upgrading parks, playgrounds, and sporting facilities, preserving our environment and ensuring your voice is heard and represented.
Maria ‘Miles’ Richards – The Greens
I am a member of the young greens, currently studying communications at the University of Technology. I have been a part of many political campaigns through my teen years as an activist for queer liberation, climate, and Indigenous justice. I am running for Bayside council as a local who has grown up in Eastlakes since I was a child, who has seen the area go through multiple eras of development and change. I also embrace the growing younger dynamic of the area.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
I have identified two major concerns in my ward; the first being a lack of secure and accessible public housing, as well as the unmet need for more walkable centres with connecting public/active transport routes within the Bayside area.
(I would) aim to stop the privatisation of council land all together, instead directing it towards public and social housing initiatives that mean that Bayside can be a place to live for everyone.
On council, I would also remain a staunch advocate for active transport methods.
Why should locals vote for you?
Locals should vote for me because I bring a fresh progressive face to council, and as a long time political activist and protester I also bring the discussion of social justice to the table.
I want it to be known that I can be counted on to platform the voices of struggling and marginalised communities in Bayside, and open the room to discussions about how we can create an environment which celebrates every individual.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I definitely support well-planned high density housing in Bayside. I think when we build high density housing that public and affordable services need to be built around, it can become congested with no space for growth.
Jennifer Muscat – Independent
Mrs Muscat did not respond to our questions in time.
Vincenzo Carrabs – Independent
For over 50 years, I’ve proudly called the Bayside Area my home. My wife and I are blessed with three wonderful adult children, all of whom still reside in this incredible neighbourhood.
With a diverse background in policing, government relations and media, I bring a wealth of experience to this cause.
Why should locals vote for you?
There is a lack of accountability within the council, and the best way to ensure transparency is to elect independent representatives who will challenge the motives behind these (rate increases on residents).
Do you support high density housing in your area?
We all deserve to live in homes that enhance our quality of life. This means that Rockdale must not only accommodate housing but also ensure a fair and equitable distribution of housing between Botany and Rockdale.
We need a vision that includes robust social infrastructure – such as services, parks, a thriving economy, schools and medical facilities – benefiting all residents.
Maria Poulos – Peaceful Bayside
I am a proud third-generation Pagewood resident with deep roots in Botany and a strong commitment to putting the community first. With a background in animal welfare, conservation, diplomacy, and crisis management, I am driven by a passion for justice and service.
My connection to Botany runs deep – my parents worked in the local factories, and my father stood alongside Jack Mundey to protect our suburbs and heritage. Fighting for Botany is in my DNA.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
If elected, I will work to ensure Bayside remains liveable by championing smart development that supports growth, affordable housing, thriving town centres and job creation — without overdevelopment. I will fight to restore and expand bus services, reduce congestion and enhance accessibility for all.
Why should locals vote for you?
I am a true Botany local with a proven track record of standing up for our community, protecting our environment and advocating for all residents — people and animals alike. I successfully safeguarded Yarra Bay from a proposed cruise terminal, preserving our coastline and heritage, and will do the same for all the places we love and value in Bayside.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
Meeting housing targets is an important state government priority and folks need affordable
housing. But we must ensure targets for Bayside are realistic and do not overburden our already congested area.
Ron Bezic – Liberal
Ron Bezic originally moved to the Bayside LGA in 1972. He is married with three children. He is a doctor who has a surgical practice based at Waratah Private Hospital and is the current Censor in Chief of a surgical college. Ron enjoys being involved in the community and serving the residents of his ward.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Cost of living is the number one issue impacting our community. If elected, we will ensure that there will be no excessive council rate hikes and that resident’s rates are spent effectively. We believe in rate relief for our local families and small businesses.
Why should locals vote for you?
We are a passionate united team of locals who want to do the best for our community. We will work hard everyday to ensure that Bayside Council delivers for the community. We will listen and respond to the issues impacting residents. For too many years, Bayside has been controlled by Labor councillors who remained focused on fighting over the mayoral chains rather than fighting for the interests of residents and ratepayers.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
We must put a stop to unwarranted overdevelopment in Bayside. While housing in the right place can be beneficial, we must look to protect our local amenity from unnecessary overdevelopment. We will fight the Labor state government on proposals that detrimentally impact our community. As parents with young kids, we will always advocate for more open space for our residents and children.
Ward 2 – Mascot, Rosebery, Wolli Creek, Arncliffe and Turrella
Olympia Hollink – Independent
Olympia was born to Greek immigrants who played a pivotal role in building a strong local
community during the 1970s. Continuing their legacy, she actively volunteers on the
Executive Committees of the Mascot Kings Soccer Club and the Greek Community of
Mascot Inc. A proud public servant, former ‘army wife’; and mother of two remarkable young
men who were also raised in Bayside, Olympia is deeply rooted in the community. She is
also the primary carer for her elderly mother.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Local friends and residents often tell me that our area looks neglected. From the fields and
playground at L’Estrange Park to the local shops, potholes, and overgrown grass strips, it’s
clear we need to get the basics right. We all love living here and want to take pride in our
surroundings. Residents deserve value for their rates, and we’ll fight to make sure they get it.
Why should locals vote for you?
Fairness is at the heart of everything I do. I want everyone to feel like they’re part of a bigger, stronger community, just like I did growing up here. A community where people connect with their neighbours, take pride in our local streets, and are represented by locals who genuinely listen and take action.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
We all know about the housing crisis in NSW, and Bayside isn’t immune. For me, it’s about finding the right balance. High-rise apartments can help with our land shortage, but they shouldn’t dominate the skyline. At the same time, we understand that Bayside is a sought-after place to live. We need a sensible approach that blends different types of housing with the necessary infrastructure and local amenities to support our growing community.
Jerome Boutelet – Liberal
Jerome Boutelet is a proud Bayside local who’s been living in Mascot for almost 10 years with his wife and two kids. He’s passionate about making sure Bayside Council does the best job possible for the community. Mr Boutelet works at a tech start-up and has worked for many years at the most senior levels of government.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Cost of living is the number one issue impacting our community. If elected, we will ensure that there will be no excessive council rate hikes and that resident’s rates are spent effectively. We believe in rate relief for our local families and small businesses.
Why should locals vote for you?
We are a passionate united team of locals who want to do the best for our community. We will work hard everyday to ensure that Bayside Council delivers for the community. We will listen and respond to the issues impacting residents. For too many years, Bayside has been controlled by Labor councillors who remained focused on fighting over the mayoral chains rather than fighting for the interests of residents and ratepayers.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
We must put a stop to unwarranted overdevelopment in Bayside. While housing in the right place can be beneficial, we must look to protect our local amenity from unnecessary overdevelopment. We will fight the Labor State Government on proposals that detrimentally impact our community. As parents with young kids, we will always advocate for more open space for our residents and children.
Carolin Wenzel – Peaceful Bayside
Since moving to Wolli Creek with my husband and two dogs in 2016, I have been active in making my local area better. I led a successful proposal to create a community garden in Wolli Creek and am a founding member of Electrify Wolli Creek to improve access to energy efficiency and renewable energy for those of us who own or rent apartments.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Poor traffic planning causing gridlock at peak times and lack of safe pedestrian access across the Princes Highway. I would ensure the Bayside Council identifies and addresses traffic and road safety issues across all wards and provides more active transport pathways between our extensive green spaces and waterways.
Why should locals vote for you?
My only motivation to be on the Bayside Council is to make our area better for everyone. I’ve never been a member of a major political party. A vote for Peaceful Bayside is a guarantee of a councillor dedicated only to addressing local needs.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I support well-planned environmentally responsible medium-density housing, and finding more affordable housing solutions to address the housing crisis. It makes sense to increase housing density around railway stations, but we need to make sure these are supported by active transport pathways and access to green space.
Soraya Kassim – Labor
I first moved to Turrella in 2009, from Kogarah. I’ve worked over two decades in community services, including managing the National Carer Gateway programs, mental health, family violence, and migrant and refugee services, and community services in two local councils.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
I am committed to working to create at least one market for residents and local businesses and to support any resident initiatives for a local Parkrun. We will also work to improve accessibility to the parks and facilities in all our suburbs through improved footpaths and cycleways.
Why should locals vote for you?
Labor is a safe pair of hands for Bayside. Growth and development of the scale we have undergone will always have its challenges. Yet we have managed to not only smooth out the process, but make significant improvements along the way. The team brings a perfect combination of fresh ideas and experience, including in community development and in local government.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
High density housing is a reality we now have, and an important part of ensuring that there are enough homes available for Sydney-siders without exacerbating problems of urban sprawl. For me, it is a necessity to make high density housing as liveable as possible.
Peter Strong – The Greens
I’m a father of two, living with my family in Arncliffe where I run a screen-printing and solar sound system events business. For over 30 years, I’ve been a community builder in Sydney’s inner west and inner southwest, deeply involved in social and environmental justice campaigns.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
The cost of living crisis is the most pressing issue in Ward 2, and it’s impacting residents across the board. As a community, we need to ensure that everyone has access to affordable and secure housing. This means prioritising a mix of affordable and social housing in all new developments, so no one is left behind.
Why should locals vote for you?
I’ve called Arncliffe home for much of this century, and my commitment to social and environmental justice has been a constant throughout my life. I’ve actively participated in numerous community events, both here and in Sydney’s inner west, always striving to make our neighbourhoods stronger and more connected.
As a proud member of the Greens, I’ve run in both local government and NSW State elections since 2016, always advocating for a fairer, more sustainable future.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
High-density housing is a major issue in Ward 2, particularly in areas like Wolli Creek and Mascot, where pressure for more development is constant. I believe any new developments must prioritise a mix of affordable housing, integrate sustainable energy systems, and create people-friendly environments, including parks, venues, and communal spaces.
Ward 3 – Rockdale, Banksia, Bardwell Park and Bardwell Valley
Michael Nagi – Liberal
Michael Nagi is a family man with four children. He lives and breathes for the local area having grown up and spent his whole adult life in the Bayside.
Michael started Ultimate Security, which turned into a large security business, alongside the well-loved Naji’s Charcoal Chicken and Kebabs and Naji’s Café. He leads the Bayside Liberal Team with 20 years extensive experience in local government.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Cost of living is the number one issue impacting our community. If elected, we will ensure that there will be no excessive council rate hikes and that resident’s rates are spent effectively. We believe in rate relief for our local families and small businesses.
Why should locals vote for you?
We are a passionate united team of locals who want to do the best for our community. We will work hard everyday to ensure that Bayside Council delivers for the community. For too many years, Bayside has been controlled by Labor councillors who remained focused on fighting over the mayoral chains rather than fighting for the interests of residents and ratepayers.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
We must put a stop to unwarranted overdevelopment in Bayside. While housing in the right place can be beneficial, we must look to protect our local area from unnecessary overdevelopment. We will fight the Labor state government on proposals that detrimentally impact our community.
Andrew Tsounis – Independent
I seek re-election to maintain this fiscal responsibility, to be a voice for maintaining our green
spaces, and keeping our neighbourhoods clean and safe.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
The council of the local government area essentially operates as a board of a corporation with an obligation to provide services to the rate payer and the wider community, under managed budgetary constraints, and while working within federal and state government legislation.
Why should locals vote for you?
While on council for the past 12 years, one term on Rockdale council and two on the
amalgamated Bayside council, I have shown to have a strong understanding of council’s fiscal position. I have enjoyed standing up for equity for all ratepayers, advocating for the retention of all and any green space for community use, and keeping costs down to keep our rates low especially in the current economic climate.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I do not support high density housing in existing low-density areas. High rise has, over the years, been zoned in packets across council areas, however, the recent mandate by the state government to identify zoning changes in order to fast-track housing construction in line with immigration population growth increases is not welcome in local low-rise communities.
Janin Bredehoeft – Peaceful Bayside
I live in Rockdale where I am raising my children with my partner. I am a trained nurse and now a CEO of a small not-for-profit organisation. My focus has always been on making people’s lives better and improving our community.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
One significant issue are our town centres. People struggle with crumbling sidewalks, no infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, few open green spaces to enjoy food, pothole-ridden roads, and a decline in local businesses, such as the closure of the post office. This has eroded the sense of community and pride that our town centre once fostered. If elected, I will focus on revitalising the town centre.
Why should locals vote for you?
My approach will prioritise community engagement every step of the way, ensuring that your voices are heard in every decision we make. I believe in transparency, accountability, and working together to create a stronger, more connected community.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I advocate for high-density housing that is thoughtfully designed to be affordable and accessible, while also preserving our community’s character and green spaces. This includes incorporating sustainable building practices, creating green spaces within developments, and ensuring that new projects include a mix of affordable housing options.
Greta Werner – The Greens
I am a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Sydney and a mother of three, and have served as a councillor since 2021.
My vision for Bayside is for a vibrant community, a thriving local economy, and a healthy environment.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
The biggest issues for many people in Ward 3 are affordability and liveability. This includes the cost of accommodation, the quality of our streets and neighbourhood centres, and access to public facilities like parks and libraries. Rockdale town centre needs to be redesigned, and I want to ensure that it becomes a more attractive destination for visitors where local businesses can thrive.
Why should locals vote for you?
I have a proven track record at Bayside Council of standing up for our community, social justice, the environment, and for increasing transparency at council. I am well connected in my local community and spend time listening to their concerns and feedback, which I use in preparing motions to present at council meetings. I also share information on important council proposals and initiatives with the community.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
Ward 3 already contains a lot of high-density housing. I support high density if it is done well and adds value to existing communities. This means improving local infrastructure and services, such as streetscapes, additional early childhood education facilities, transport upgrades, and stormwater management.
Christopher Saravinovski – Labor
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
I’m very concerned about local jobs and services in Rockdale, and will fight to keep government services operating in the Rockdale Town Centre. We can’t take the recent announcement that Australia Post will close its office at Rockdale lying down – I will be fighting to ensure this important facility remains open for residents, and that we aren’t at risk of losing further government services and jobs.
Why should locals vote for you?
I am standing as a fresh face for Ward 3 in Bayside Council, and will bring a youth perspective to the council. Our area has changed a lot in recent years, and I know that we need to keep fighting for investment into our area, and that we need to support our growing community with good infrastructure, open space, and places to work.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I support growing density around our train stations, but it needs to be accompanied by more high quality green spaces to support apartment living.
Sam Hoballah – Independent
Mr Hoballah did not respond to our questions.
Ward 4 – Kingsgrove, Carlton, Kogarah, Bexley and Bexley North
Joe Awada – Labor
Since the council amalgamation Joe Awada has served as mayor and is currently deputy mayor of Bayside Council. He has lived in Bayside for the last 42 years, loves sport, and
always wanted to be in a position to help and improve the lives of other people that are in need.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Local traffic and safety around schools has been of interest to me. I have been working with the related parties and the principles of the schools to find solutions in terms of providing short term parking at morning drop off and afternoon pick up times.
Why should locals vote for you?
For the last 20 years, I have carried my duties as a councillor, mayor and currently the deputy mayor of Bayside Council in a professional manner. I am committed, with my vast experience in local government, to serve the broader community and make decisions that are in the best interest of rate payers.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
We live in a LGA that is very close to Sydney International and Domestic Airport and land is scarce. I am in support of affordable housing which will offer a lifeline to low income families that are struggling to even put food on the table.
Fiona Douskou – Liberal
Fiona has been a resident of Bayside for 23 years and has been involved with many local community organisations. As a Rotary Club president, she has led initiatives such as raising money for the Bayside Women’s Shelter. Fiona recently started a cyber security business and she is passionate about giving local small businesses a voice.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Cost of living is the number one issue impacting our community. If elected, we will ensure that there will be no excessive council rate hikes and that resident’s rates are spent effectively. We believe in rate relief for our local families and small businesses.
Why should locals vote for you?
Fiona is a strong advocate for safer community amenities for families, the elderly, and women, and is campaigning to make Carlton, Kogarah, and Rockdale train stations safer by introducing more lighting and CCTV cameras. Fiona will be a strong advocate for the delivery of council services to the community, while ensuring strong budget management to ensure there are no unnecessary rate rises while local households are struggling through the cost of living crisis.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
We must put a stop to unwarranted overdevelopment in Bayside. While housing in the right place can be beneficial, we must look to protect our local area from unnecessary overdevelopment. We will fight the Labor state government on proposals that detrimentally impact our community.
Bashir Sawalha – The Greens
Born and raised in Palestine, since moving to Australia, I’ve been active in community development and anti-war campaigns. As a local resident, migrant, and father of four, I know how tough it can be to make ends meet. A top priority for me is to deliver more for those in need in our community.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Lack of affordable housing and accessible public services. If elected to the council, I would prioritise affordable housing initiatives, advocate for better public transport links, and push for the development of community centres and services that cater to all residents. I would work closely with state and local government bodies to secure funding and support for these projects, and involve the community in decision-making processes.
Why should locals vote for you?
I am deeply committed to addressing the issues that matter most to our community, such as affordable housing, better public services, and community engagement. I bring a strong track record of community service, and I understand the unique challenges our ward faces.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I support balanced development that considers the needs of the community. High-density housing can be beneficial if it’s well-planned, with adequate infrastructure, green spaces, and services to support it. However, it’s crucial to ensure that such developments do not compromise the character of the area or the quality of life for residents. If high-density housing is proposed, I would advocate for thorough community consultation and planning to ensure it benefits everyone.
Elizabeth Barlow – Independent
I have demonstrated my determination over the past 28 years to be a genuine independent that represents the residents. I have listened to your concerns and have always worked for residents’ best interest on council and not the interest of any political party.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
The main issue in Ward 4 has been when the toll was reinstated on the M5 and Bexley residents and businesses suffered. This is a state issue but our local members are the only ones that can hopefully achieve a solution. We as a council have to keep lobbying on this issue.
Why should locals vote for you?
Having dedicated the past 28 years to the community as a genuine independent, I would like to continue and share my experience with the new council. I have always been available, contactable and have always put the residents’ concerns first in my approach to all the issues that arise at council.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
As the State Government has made the issue of density their priority, we must ask for better designs in appropriate locations and the issue of “affordable housing” clarified.
Dominic Galvin – Peaceful Bayside
I am a local high school teacher with a background in the transport industry.
Before transitioning into teaching, I worked as a truck driver in the waste, building,
construction materials, quarries, and air and sea freight industries for businesses in the Bayside local government area, gaining first-hand experience of the challenges faced on our roads.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Recent pedestrian and cyclist fatalities make it clear that the safety of vulnerable road users is a major issue in this area. Anti-social driving behaviour is common and needs to be addressed. If elected, I will propose and support measures to protect vulnerable road users and encourage walking and cycling, particularly for students travelling to school.
Why should locals vote for you?
I live and work in Ward 4 of Bayside, am part of the community, and am invested in our neighbourhoods becoming safer and better. State government plans for a lot more apartments and high-rise will continue to impact us over the next four years and I will fight for outcomes that bring lasting benefits to all of us.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I support density in Ward 4 because people are suffering from Sydney’s housing shortage and there is a need for more accommodation close to the city.
Ward 5 – Brighton-Le-Sands, Kyeemagh, Monterey, Ramsgate Beach, Ramsgate, Dolls Point, Sans Souci and Sandringham
Edward McDouglas – Labor
Edward McDougall has been a councillor for seven years and has advocated for solutions to the problems of hooning and anti-social behaviour in the area. He successfully implemented a number of solutions including the night-time closure of foreshore carparks, traffic calming measures, and the recent introduction of speed and safety cameras on The Grand Parade.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Car and bike hooning and anti-social behaviour continues to be a major issue in my ward. I have fought to deliver local road safety improvements to suburban streets across the ward, and have also worked with the state government to deliver speed and safety cameras on The Grand Parade at Brighton-Le-Sands and Ramsgate, and soon we will be introducing noise cameras in a state-first trial.
Why should locals vote for you?
I’m asking local residents for their continued support as I believe I’ve been an effective local advocate for our ward. Over the last term of council, I’ve delivered playground, open space and sporting facility upgrades in every suburb in our ward, as well as the multimillion-dollar park upgrade at Barton Park.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
If we want to make sure our young people are able to afford to live in our local area, we need to accept increased density. However, we need to make sure this density is well planned and located, such as around train stations and transport hubs, and that we improve our local infrastructure and green spaces to support that growth.
Paul Wade – The Greens
I currently work in the not-for-profit sector and am a father of three. As a Bayside resident for over 15 years, I have been actively locally campaigning for better community services, protecting and enhancing our green spaces, and celebrating our rich cultural diversity.
My career and personal life have been shaped by a passion for ecological sustainability, social justice, and improving public services.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Vehicles are bigger, faster, and more numerous than ever before, and as a result our streets are becoming less safe for other uses. Many Ward 5 residents want to see this change by making our neighbourhood streets and centres places for people – where we can feel safe, connect with each other, and local businesses can thrive.
Why should locals vote for you?
Many of Bayside’s councillors have been around for a very long time, and the old parties are stuck in their ways. The community is crying out for a different approach from local councillors, so Bayside Council needs a refresh with different perspectives and new ideas. More Greens on the Bayside Council will give that to our community.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I support housing of all types, including higher density, so long as it’s done well. Increased density in Ward 5 would need to come with improved public transport options, increased and improved local services, and clear benefits to the communities that already live there.
Heidi Lee Douglas – Peaceful Bayside
I’m a local mum who founded the Peaceful Bayside Action Group in 2020 to push for safer streets. Peaceful Bayside has since grown into a local action group that pushes for a safer, greener, and more liveable Bayside.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Hooning and road safety are major issues in Ward 5, as is safety on our beaches with lots of dangerous anti-social jet ski driving. I’ve worked hard to address both in my first term on Council. I have helped get speed cameras on The Grand Parade, support for noise cameras and traffic calming across Bayside, as well as “piazza” trials on Bay Street.
Why should locals vote for you?
I’m a hardworking, transparent, community-focused councillor. I have made a constant effort to make sure that more of our community is aware of what our council is considering and have input into these decisions. I’ve also helped more residents get their issues on the council agenda. Bayside Council needs more fresh, visionary leadership, which is why I have established Peaceful Bayside as a local, community-first political party.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
We need to make sure that any push for high-rise housing really does address the need for more affordable housing supply, and is not just a land grab or cash cow for developers. Unfortunately, the state government is not currently being ambitious in affordable housing targets.
Vicki Poulos – Liberal
Vicki Poulos is once again contesting in Ward 5 and has been a resident of the LGA for the past 18 years. She was the previous Liberal councillor for this ward area up until 2021. Vicki is a working mum with three children who maintains strong community ties.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Cost of living is the number one issue impacting our community. If elected, we will ensure that there will be no excessive council rate hikes and that resident’s rates are spent effectively. We believe in rate relief for our local families and small businesses.
Why should locals vote for you?
We are a passionate united team of locals who want to do the best for our community. We will work hard everyday to ensure that Bayside Council delivers for the community. For too many years, Bayside has been controlled by Labor councillors who remained focused on fighting over the mayoral chains rather than fighting for the interests of residents and ratepayers.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
We must put a stop to unwarranted overdevelopment in Bayside. While housing in the right place can be beneficial, we must look to protect our local area from unnecessary overdevelopment. We will fight the Labor State Government on proposals that detrimentally impact our community.
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