Sutherland Shire Council 2024: Meet the candidates running in this year’s election
Former Liberals who have gone solo are just some of the candidates vying for a seat on the shaken-up Sutherland Shire 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 Sutherland Shire Council and a number of candidates, new and returning, are throwing their hats into the ring.
Sutherland Council is separated into five wards represented by three councillors each.
We have reached out to every candidate to understand who they are, what they stand for and why they are running for election.
A Ward
Carol Provan – Independent
I have been a councillor for 24 years, twice as mayor and several times as deputy mayor. I am a member of the Sydney South Planning Panel which determines large projects in the Shire.
I have helped around 5000 people solve their issues with council (not all successfully) whether they are minor or major. I am a trusted, respected and proven councillor.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
The major issue in A Ward is the traffic and parking. The ownership of cars per household has increased from less than one per household 50 years ago to over 2.2 cars per household at present, one of the highest car ownerships per household in Australia.
A number of individuals and community groups have made suggestions for improvements and some have been implemented. Our traffic team continues to investigate other solutions.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I do support high density housing up to 800m around transport hubs.
If we are to meet the housing targets dictated by the state government, I see this as the only feasible way to achieve the targets and maintain single dwellings in the rest of the Shire.
Kal Glanznig – Independent
Kal Glanznig is one of Australia’s leading youth ocean and climate champions. In 2019 he co-founded Plastic Free Cronulla with the Cronulla Chamber of Commerce, building a community movement that has helped achieve a legislative ban of single-use plastics.
Kal was awarded Sutherland Shire Young Australian of the Year 2020 and Environmental Citizen of the Year 2023.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Gunnamatta Bay’s water quality dropped to a “poor” rating in last year’s state government report because of increased faecal matter, pollution, and bacteria.
I am determined to change this to ensure we can have some of the cleanest waterways and beaches in Greater Sydney through increasing investment in stormwater and introducing innovative anti-pollution measures to ensure our bays are swimmable.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I don’t want to see the Shire lose its character and community dynamics. I think some of the recent developments around Cronulla, for example the development proposal above Pilgrims Cafe in Cronulla, are not suited for the character of our area.
With the LEP being reviewed this term, it is imperative all voices are at the table and effective community consultation is done.
Leanne Farmer – Independent
Leanne is a lifelong resident of A Ward who was elected as a genuine independent last election. She considers it an honour to work together with the community on the issues that affect the local area.
Leanne is a NSW In Home Childcare Provider of specialised care for families in need. In 2019, Leanne was nominated for the Australian Day Council’s ‘Young Australian of the Year’ award.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Infrastructure that supports accessibility still stands out as a major issue in all parts of my Ward.
With the Audley Weir and other access roads to Bundeena and Maianbar closed or restricted so often, residents are severely disadvantaged by this lack of basic infrastructure. Cronulla and Kurnell also struggle with limited access roads for the ever growing population.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
Cronulla has plenty of high density housing already and I truly believe if we are to supply more high density it can only be around the public transport hubs, as traffic congestion is already a major issue in the Shire.
Marcelle Elzerman – Liberal
I’m a young councillor passionate about enhancing essential services in A Ward and the broader Shire. I truly believe that strong communities are the heart of our society and am committed to a “back to basics” approach to improve core needs like roads, sporting fields, and parking.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
The lack of attention to essential services is a significant concern. Our sporting fields, roads, and parking solutions need investment – we need to get the basics right to make daily life less frustrating for residents.
I want to prioritise improving our sporting fields by enhancing drainage and maintenance, ensuring year-round access for local clubs and families.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I support a balanced approach that designates appropriate areas for development while ensuring our roads, stormwater systems, and public amenities can handle the growth.
It’s essential to minimise disruptions to small businesses and keep parking available as density rises.
Dianne Becker – Animal Justice Party
I have lived my whole life in my electorate. Being endorsed as a representative of the Animal Justice Party is an absolute honour and I’m very excited to have the opportunity to speak for my community and give a voice to the voiceless if elected.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Shark nets. They are ineffective, they give swimmers a false sense of security, and the threat they pose to marine life is unacceptable.
The cost to install and maintain the nets each summer could be better used on modern nonlethal solutions such as surveillance drones.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
There is definitely a place for high density housing around railway stations and public transport corridors so long as there are adequate facilities and green space provided.
My issue with developments is they have been used as a tool to make money for some instead of providing housing for many.
Jeremy Gadsden – Labor
As a resident of South Cronulla from a working-class background, Jeremy is a practising commercial lawyer who regularly takes on “pro bono” cases for those in need. Jeremy also maintains a keen interest in law and justice reform, currently serving on the Executive Committee of the NSW Society of Labor Lawyers.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Residents have expressed to me a concern their council is preoccupied with developing new, expensive, aesthetic projects while existing council assets and responsibilities decay or go ignored.
While the development of new capital works are important, it is necessary that our council plan for future change and appropriately resource what we already have so that we remain financially responsible and do not become a burden on ratepayers.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
We must protect the way of life that we have, while also making buying a home here easier for young people and our future generations.
The idea of high density housing in the Shire may be a scary thought to many locals, but when done well it will ease the burden on first home buyers and give them an opportunity to enter the market while living in their own community.
B Ward
Martin Moore – The Greens
The climate emergency has been my call to stand for council. I have undertaken extensive work as a community artist and housing advocate promoting peace, social justice and environmental activism.
I also bring experience as a sole trader in business, remembering those struggles.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
The proposal to rezone land around waterways in areas including Yowie Bay and Caringbah South was done without any community consultation after conducting non-public, councillor-only meetings about the proposal.
The Greens will maintain conservation zones in local environment plans and make sure that any new developments do not threaten environmentally sensitive land.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
Yes, but not at the cost of the environment, heritage, and public infrastructure. The Greens will push for increase in housing density to make homes more affordable and meet the needs of our communities, rather than wholesale rezoning to benefit big developers.
We would advocate for social and affordable housing components in all new developments, and agitate for more public housing from the state government.
Jack Boyd – Labor
Councillor Jack Boyd was first elected to council in 2016. Since election, he has driven a number of significant projects including the Seymour Shaw Active Sports Youth Precinct, Gymea Bay Baths Masterplan, a new library and community space at Kirrawee, as well as a number of park and playground upgrades.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
The rate of development and the impact this is having on traffic congestion. I want to see council partner with the state government to build more commuter carparking in places like Caringbah and Gymea, re-examine traffic flows around our town centres and on arterial roads, and building more parking when undertaking projects across the Shire.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I don’t oppose high density, we can’t avoid it, but what I do oppose is building it without a plan for how we will support our existing or new residents.
In 2015 the Liberals drastically redrew the Shire’s planning controls, causing an explosion in apartments with very little in the way of additional infrastructure to support that growth. I want to ensure that council matches any growth in apartments with supporting infrastructure.
Allira Wade – Independent
Born and raised in the Shire, Allira is a proud mother of two who is deeply committed to enhancing our community.
As an independent candidate for local council, Allira’s aim is to represent and give back to the community who has given her so much, free from the influence of political parties and solely accountable to the constituents.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
The issues in B Ward in the Sutherland Shire are similar to the issues in every ward in the Shire: overdevelopment, underfunding of maintenance for amenities, lack of parking and very little connection between the council and the community.
If elected I would work hard to reverse all these things, starting with more transparency and communication from the council.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
It has been proven high density housing can be beneficial for an area when it is planned for and executed well.
We need to make sure that we have the right forward planning to ensure our amenities are upgraded in line with our development so that parking, traffic flow, and other support services are able to keep up with the number of people the area can accommodate.
Melanie Gibbons – Liberal
I’m a former councillor for Sutherland and a former state member of parliament. I consider myself to be an advocate, having worked in the disability sector and now assisting an industry organisation.
I’m putting myself forward as I’d like to have the opportunity to continue helping people.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Port Hacking is a special part of the Shire. It needs to be protected with fully maintained infrastructure such as pollutant traps to ensure we provide a cleaner habitat for fish and birdlife and a place for us all to enjoy.
For too long, our waterways have been expected to cope with overflowing drains and siltation build up, too much rubbish, and a need for dredging.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
Miranda, Caringbah and Kirrawee are at their capacity and require supporting infrastructure before we could even contemplate further high-density units.
If the state government mandate additional density, then I would argue it be located near well serviced public transport hubs and within walking distance of local businesses.
C Ward
Gaye Cameron – Libertarian Party
Gaye Cameron has lived in the Shire and St George for 36 years. Gaye works locally as a social worker, and lectures part-time in mental health, community services, and counselling. Gaye is standing with the Libertarian Party to ensure council gets back to basics and cuts spending on woke ideologies to fix roads and slash rates.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Rapid urban development, especially high-density housing, is causing congestion, parking shortages, infrastructure strain, and loss of green spaces.
Redirecting high-density projects to under-utilised areas and ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with growth can balance development with quality of life.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I do not support high-density housing in the Sutherland Shire because it leads to increased traffic congestion, limited parking, and is a strain on already overburdened infrastructure.
It also threatens the character of our community by reducing green spaces and negatively impacting our natural environment.
Carmelo Pesce – Independent
Sutherland Shire Mayor Carmelo Pesce is currently serving his third term on Sutherland Shire Council, having first been elected to council in 2012.
He previously served as mayor from 2015-2020 and as deputy mayor from 2014-2015.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
The poor condition of our sporting fields has had a significant impact on our community, particularly our children.
If elected, I will prioritise the upgrade and maintenance of these fields to ensure they are safe, modern, and usable year-round.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
High-density housing is a necessary component of urban development, but it must be managed sensibly.
I believe high density developments should be concentrated in town centres where there is adequate infrastructure to support them, rather than in surrounding suburbs where they can disrupt the character of established communities.
Sensible development means ensuring any new housing projects are accompanied by the necessary amenities, such as public transport, schools, and green spaces, to support a growing population.
Jennifer Armstrong – Labor
Jennifer Armstrong is an operations manager for a Sutherland Shire not-for-profit organisation which promotes inclusion and equality.
As recipient of the 2016 NSW Premier’s Woman of the Year Award, Jennifer has been recognised for her advocacy work for victims of domestic violence.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
One of the major issues in C Ward is how we balance maintaining our natural environment, while also ensuring that our children, and grandchildren can afford to live, work and play in the Sutherland Shire.
I was proud to be supported unanimously when I proposed the Oyster Bay masterplan, which aims to restore Oyster Bay and surrounding foreshores to the gem they once were.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I am committed to addressing housing in the Shire, but only in areas that are deemed suitable and sensible in size after the careful consideration of the necessary surrounding transport options, schools, parks, facilities, and the impact to the character and natural environment of the area.
Due to the 2015 Liberal state government decision to restrict council’s planning controls, the Shire needs an elected council that will fight to have appropriate infrastructure and sensible builds for the area.
Haris Strangas – Liberal
I’m Haris – a 29-year-old small business owner. My candidacy for council is all about fighting to maintain and enhance our high quality of life in the Shire.
Should I be fortunate enough to be elected in September, I will continue to be an advocate for council to focus on lower rates and better services. I will also continue to be a strong voice for small and local businesses.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Residents in C Ward want investment in basic infrastructure. They want to pay their rates and go about their day-to-day lives, knowing council is looking after our roads, footpaths, parks, stormwater management systems, and town centres.
I have proposed council expand its capital works program. We need to invest more of the surplus budget into C Ward’s key projects and strengthen council’s infrastructure directorate through a restructure of council.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
While the housing crisis is a significant issue, the Shire has historically met its housing targets and should not be burdened by high density development in the wrong places.
My focus is on future proofing our suburbs – we need to ensure our infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of our community, without compromising the character and liveability of our neighbourhoods.
D Ward
Mark Christie – Independent
Mark is a married father of two children and has lived in D Ward for 25 years. He retired from the NSW Police Force in 2023 at the rank of chief inspector in Forensic Services.
He is a highly decorated career police officer having received national police service commendations for courage and for ethical and diligent service.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Family and domestic violence against women. I would look at creating women and girls only safe spaces in the main CBD’s including extra lighting at night between the train station and parking stations so women are safe on their commute to and from work.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I support development which is sensible and doesn’t impede traffic by creating choke points and limited on-street parking.
Affordable housing is paramount for our entire Shire, which may include negotiating with developers at the DA stage to create permanent pipelines for affordable housing.
Dominique Passmore – Independent
Dominique is a community advocate who speaks up without any hidden agenda or allegiance to a party or alliance.
Recently, Dominique made a career change to work with Women for Election Australia, a nonpartisan organisation dedicated to achieving equal gender representation in all levels of government.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Lack of appropriate accessible parking is an issue, with many spots either poorly located, or insufficient in number.
With an ageing population, we need to increase the number of accessible parking spots and have them centrally located around retail and medical centres.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
Housing issues are not addressed by supply only, so it would be irresponsible to answer a simple yes or no to this question. It is a complex relationship between taxation policy, financial lending practises, suitability of housing mix, and local environment.
I do support an updated LEP to give all residents clarity regarding zoning. The 2015 LEP was due for revision during the last council term, but it has been put on the “back burner” again. My fear is politics is getting in the way of these decisions and this is why the LEP is consistently delayed.
Diedree Steinwall – Labor
Diedree is a longstanding Shire english and history teacher, Justice of the Peace and local volunteer who has raised her family and lives in Heathcote.
She has worked hard over the last 12 years as a local councillor, delivering much needed facilities like Cooper Street Park, The Pavilion, the off-leash dog park in Heathcote, drainage, irrigation and lighting for our ovals, and numerous park upgrades.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Our town centres are increasing in congestion and more innovative ways need to be explored to ease parking.
Of particular focus will be a solution to the difficulties that residents face daily along Anzac Road and the Caldarra and Cambrai Ave roundabouts, along Loftus Ave, and the difficult access over the bridge at Sutherland train station.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
I support different housing sizes and types which cater for the varying needs of our community with higher densities closer to town centres and transport hubs.
Any density increase must allow for provision of affordable and key worker housing as well as meeting high standards of design and construction.
Brady Clarke – Independent
Brady Clarke is a dedicated community leader, serving as the captain of the Menai Fire Brigade and running a successful local business.
With extensive experience in emergency services, Brady has been a steadfast protector of the Shire, particularly during critical times such as bushfires and other natural disasters.
As a long-term resident of the Shire, Brady has an intimate understanding of the local area and its unique needs.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
One of the most pressing issues in D Ward is the lack of adequate parking around the town centre. This has caused significant inconvenience for residents, local businesses, and visitors, leading to congestion and frustration.
If elected, I will prioritise the development of a comprehensive parking strategy that includes expanding existing parking facilities, exploring opportunities for additional off-street parking, and improving signage and traffic flow to better manage the current demand.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
High-density housing can be a solution to address housing shortages and provide more affordable living options, but it must be carefully managed to ensure it aligns with the character of our area and the needs of our residents.
I support a balanced approach to high-density housing, where it is strategically located near transport hubs and essential services, and designed with community input to ensure it enhances rather than detracts from our neighbourhood.
Meredith Laverty – Liberal
Meredith Laverty has lived and worked in the Sutherland Shire for more than 30 years.
A mother of two children, she has a passion for helping the community and has served as a volunteer in a range of local organisations.
Meredith will work to ensure council rates are brought back under control as Sutherland Shire has some of the highest residential rates in NSW, adding to the cost of living pressure on local families.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
Residents of D Ward are concerned about the provision of basic services being delivered cost effectively.
If elected, I would call for immediate options on providing increased parking in and around the Engadine Town Centre. Council also needs a plan to upgrade vital stormwater facilities to mitigate flooding risks throughout the ward.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
The housing crisis is made worse locally by the failure of council to adequately invest in infrastructure.
While activating more housing around transport hubs makes sense, it must be supported by associated infrastructure investment – more community facilities, better maintained roads, and more community and residential parking.
E Ward
Laura Cowell – Independent
Laura Cowell is the CEO of Tender Loving Care and president of the Sutherland Shire Football Association.
Elected to the Sutherland Shire Council in 2021, she has driven significant initiatives which have improved local infrastructure and services, earning her recognition as Local Woman of the Year in both 2022 and 2024.
Laura is also the host of the radio show ‘Amplify with Laura Cowell,’ where she amplifies the voices of people with a disability.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
A significant issue in E Ward is the lack of accessible and well-maintained sports and recreational facilities.
If re-elected, I will continue to prioritise upgrading and maintaining these facilities to ensure they are modern, accessible, and beneficial for all ages and abilities.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
It’s crucial to balance growth with maintaining quality of life for current residents. This includes ensuring that infrastructure, green spaces, and community services can support an increased population.
If re-elected, I will continue to advocate for responsible development that prioritises sustainability, community consultation, and the preservation of our unique Shire identity.
Michael Maroney OAM – Labor
I’m a lifelong Shire local. I have enjoyed careers as a police officer and firefighter. I currently work as a teacher at Aquinas Catholic College in Menai.
I was honoured to represent Australia at the Commonwealth Games in triathlon and, after decades of volunteer and community work in sports and charities, received an Order of Australia Medal.
As your council representative I will fight for you and our wonderful community.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
E Ward residents identify a number of local concerns including traffic congestion, and protecting the unique character of our beautiful bushland and river environment.
Ways in which to facilitate this change include reviewing current traffic management plans to determine more effective ways to ease traffic around the suburban town centres, as well as building more parking when undertaking projects across the ward, and embedding this in our strategic planning.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
Parts of E Ward such as Menai and Barden Ridge are relatively ‘young’ suburbs in terms of housing and infrastructure.
They benefit from a more recent plan that facilitates housing growth commensurate with growing populations. Other areas of the ward have a natural propensity for higher density housing around transport hubs and train stations.
I am supportive of a responsible housing policy for E Ward that takes into consideration the unique features of our particular suburbs, coupled with developing the necessary infrastructure to support it.
Stephen Nikolovski – Liberal
I’m a committed local father, husband and small business owner, managing a financial planning, mortgage broking and accounting practice.
I am a lifelong resident of E Ward, living locally for the past 36 years. First elected in 2021, I have had the privilege to represent E Ward for the past three years, where I focused on listening to the concerns of local residents and addressing your issues through council to improve our community.
What have you identified as a major issue in your ward, and how would you address it if elected?
When I speak to local residents, they tell me council is too focused on providing services and facilities in other parts of the Shire, and our western end is looking tired.
Our town centres need to be refreshed and our roads need to be maintained to a higher standard. We have too big a backlog on road and capital works maintenance.
I want to make sure we get basic council services up to date.
Do you support high density housing in your area?
E Ward residents’ feedback to me is we need to ensure our ward remains an affordable, attractive and enviable place to live.
They also want our younger residents who currently rent, or live at home, to have the opportunity to purchase their own homes close to their family and friends, and their communities, without having to leave the Shire.
More locally, I am mindful E Ward in particular has significant environmental zonings and issues such as bushfire and flood mitigation must form part of any density consideration.
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