2024 local government elections: Meet candidates for Cessnock, Lake Macquarie, Muswellbrook and Port Stephens
With a big list of candidates across the Hunter we’ve made voting a little easier with information you need to know to before September 14. Here’s Cessnock, Lake Macquarie, Muswellbrook and Port Stephens candidates.
Newcastle
Don't miss out on the headlines from Newcastle. Followed categories will be added to My News.
It’s that time again with just under two weeks left to vote in the 2024 local council elections.
Across the Hunter there is a big list of candidates across multiple councils.
To make voting a little easier we’ve compiled plenty of information about who is up for election and what they’re all about, so you can decide come September 14 who gets your tick of approval.
Meet the candidates from Cessnock, Lake Macquarie, Muswellbrook and Port Stephens councils.
Cessnock Council
Mayoral candidates
Jay Suvaal – Labor
The current mayor has lived in the Cessnock local government area for most of his life. Born in Cessnock Hospital, growing up in Kearsley, he is now raising his family in Kitchener.
He said he had been working hard to deliver for the Cessnock community.
“Listening to the concerns of residents, we have invested in local roads by doubling the roads maintenance budget and we have tripled the capital works program delivery with over $65m spent last year alone,” Cr Suvaal said.
“This has seen council upgrade roads across our community and also complete major upgrades to the Kurri Kurri CBD.
“We’ve built new shared pathways and upgraded our local parks, playgrounds and sporting facilities to make our community an even better place to live, work and raise a family.”
But he believes there is still more to do and hopes to keep delivering for Cessnock as Mayor and on the Labor team for council.
“The rapid growth our area is experiencing brings new challenges,” he added.
“We need an experienced and stable council to ensure that growth occurs in a sustainable way and new infrastructure is put in place early to support future developments.”
Daniel Watton – Independent
The current Independent Ward C councillor is running to stay on council and putting his hat in the ring to become mayor.
He prides himself on a deep commitment to advancing Cessnock in the right direction and is driven by a vision for a thriving community where the interests of residents take precedence.
The father-of-five said he is personally invested in securing a prosperous future for our local government area.
“With established roots as a business owner within the Cessnock LGA and overseeing operations at Kingdom Foodcare in Weston, I bring first-hand experience in fostering local enterprise and community initiatives,” he said.
“I believe Cessnock holds immense untapped potential that has been overlooked for too long.
“My leadership is dedicated to harnessing this potential through proactive strategies that prioritise growth, development, and sustainability.
“By leveraging our collective strengths and resources, I am committed to ensuring that Cessnock realises its full promise as a vibrant and prosperous community.”
Llynda Nairn – Greens
An authorised celebrant and JP, and former touring performer, Ms Nairn is a Millfield local vying for a seat in Ward A and running for mayor.
She wants to improve the standard of facilities such as the inclusion of fully accessible public toilets at all playgrounds, and pathways one kilometre in each direction from schools.
“Most parks in Ward A do not have public toilets, and many do not have shade cloth over play equipment,” she said.
“Fully accessible public toilets in parks will make it possible for a family to have a day out, for the cost of a picnic lunch.
“The addition of shade cloth over play equipment protects young children from the sun. Parents can relax and let their children play where it’s cooler, and safe.”
Ms Nairn also wants all residents to access tip vouchers easily for kerbside bulky waste pick-up and would push for an annual town hall meeting for residents to ask questions directly of their councillors and the general manager.
She believes council should also ask more of developers and seek more contributions from the State Government to build infrastructure but says no to high-density housing.
“We have very little public transport in Cessnock and our current infrastructure would not cope with the extra demands of the increased population of high-density housing,” she said.
WARD A
Jessica Jurd – Independent
Other candidates
Independent – Tracey Harrington, Sharon Kennedy
Labor – James Hawkins, Charlie Mclennan
Greens – Gregory Gilmour, Averil Drummond
WARD B
Quintin King – Independent
The father-of-two, who has lived in Cessnock for five years working as a plant mechanic in the Upper Hunter, is the lead Independent candidate for Ward B.
The “blue-collar worker” has actively pushed for more police presence, a ring road or bypass, and supported the Save Wollombi Road campaign to elevate local businesses and residents’ concerns.
“I’m running because Cessnock needs a dedicated advocate to address pressing issues like crumbling roads and financial challenges,” he said.
“My focus is on enhancing community engagement, improving road infrastructure, and establishing a long-term vision for our region’s prosperity.
“This initiative is about all of us. Together, we can challenge the current councils inefficiencies and implement necessary changes for Cessnock.
“I am committed to listening, advocating, and fighting for our community’s best interests.”
Sarah Pascoe – Independent
Christopher Madden – Labor
Other candidates:
Independent – Naomi Smith, Col Caban, Brett King, Brendan Peel
Labor – Fatmata Bangura, Steve George
WARD C
Sophie Palmowski – Labor
Nicholas Maher – Independent
Other candidates:
Independent – Mark Mason, Jack Franklin, Rachael Thomas, Cameron Derewianko-Bowes
Labor – Mitchell Lea, Anne Sander
WARD D
Susanne Dixon – Independent
Susanne Dixon will be heading the independent team for Ward D.
She believes people are tired of party politics in local council, and feels the ratepayers need to be represented in a fair and transparent fashion.
“For too long council have been ignoring the will of the people and moving ahead without consideration of the best outcomes for residents in the Cessnock LGA,” she said.
“My focus is for counsellors and residents to work together for the betterment of the area.”
Victoria Davies – Animal Justice Party
Mitchell Hill – Labor
Other candidates:
Independent – Chris Parker, David Cocking
Animal Justice Party – Graeme Davies, Anne McCondach
Labor – Rose Grine, Debb Dunne
MUSWELLBROOK COUNCIL
Amanda Barry
The current councillor, who has served for the past three years, is vying for re-election.
The Denman local has a primary focus of creating a sustainable tomorrow for the Muswellbrook Shire.
“With the looming industrial closures of several big employers, our community is facing significant challenges,” she said.
“It is crucial that we proactively address these changes to ensure a resilient and thriving future for our residents.”
If re-elected, she promises to bring experience, dedication and a deep understanding of the community’s needs.
“I have developed a strong foundation in local governance and have successfully worked to address many concerns of our residents,” Ms Barry added.
“High-density housing needs to be carefully considered within the context of our community’s unique needs and character. While high-density housing can be an effective way to address population growth and provide affordable options, it must be balanced with the preservation of our local environment, infrastructure capacity, and the overall quality of life for residents.”
Rod Scholes – Independent
Having spent many years on council, Mr Scholes is an experienced and effective councillor with a management background.
“Councils role is to provide core services to the community, water, waste, roads and community services,” he said.
“It is also an imperative that the liveability and viability of the community is maximised.
“Maximising grant money from government is critical to advance the Shire to assist with the cost of projects that provide these and enabling a balanced budget.”
He believes mining will be an important part of the community for many years to come with Bengalla, Mt Pleasant, Maxwell and Dartbrook.
“Mt Arthur closing puts a $6 million hole in our budget. We need to mitigate the impacts of this,” Mr Scholes added.
He’s urged that council must maintain services and make them sustainable and wants stronger and respected voices when dealing with the Government.
“We need concrete commitments for our community not tokenism in our dealings,” he said.
“Improving how we assist business to relocate and expand within the Shire, identify missing and maximise existing services for our elderly, youth and young families, and the community generally.
“Lack of housing is also a great issue in the community and all ways need to be investigated to rectify this.”
Graeme McNeil – Independent
Graham Varley – Independent
Mark Bowditch – Independent
Rohit Mahajan – Independent
Jennifer Lecky – Independent
Kim Granger – Independent
Darryl Marshall – Independent
David Morris – Independent
Jeff Drayton – Independent
The former deputy mayor is running for his third term on council.
He said he’d been disappointed with the relationship that the current council had with the community.
“I would like to build on that relationship. I see one of the key roles of a councillor is to bring the community along with them and involve them, particularly in the decision making process,” he said.
“I also plan to work with government and industry, particularly mining, to ensure we get our fair share from the massive profits produced right in the heart of our shire.
“The key area is the building of our community. With the opening and expansion of mines in our LGA, our community hasn’t been able to attract these workers to live in our towns.
“We need to work with the miners and government to change that.”
Mr Drayton believes each application for high density housing should be judged on its merit but couldn’t see a need for that type of housing in the area.
“I wish all candidates the best of luck and if elected be prepared to work hard, fight hard, real damn hard,” he added.
De-Anne Douglas – Independent
Other candidates:
Jacinta Ledlin, Tim Williams, Megan Black, Andrew Reynolds, Thomas Griffin, Louise Dunn, Clare Bailey, Stephen Ward, Rachael McInnes, Tracey Vicary, David Hartley, Kristin Goodhew, Dane Scandurra, Heidi Hartley
Lake Macquarie Council
Mayoral candidates
Melody Harding – Liberal
Born and raised in Lake Macquarie, Ms Harding has studied economics and educational leadership, as well as being a marriage celebrant.
She believes she has a lot to offer in the role of mayor and it would be a privilege to serve in the role and respond to the concerns and issues affecting ratepayers.
“The council needs to focus on its core responsibilities, like rates, roads and rubbish to ensure that ratepayers are getting value for their money,” she said.
“In the midst of the current cost of living crisis people are struggling to cope with everyday costs, like fuel, power and groceries.
“Our council must prioritise ratepayers needs, by focusing on keeping rates as low as possible and our services top notch to ensure that local small businesses and families are being supported.”
Having decades of experience in the education sector, Ms Harding believes she will have an organisational edge that will help to operate a council that is focused on the needs of ratepayers, and is prepared to stand up for the hardworking, aspirational everyday people who simply want a better, more liveable community for themselves and their families.
“Also housing supply simply cannot keep up with the demand, and the targets set by both the Federal and State Governments to address this crisis will not be met – as their policies make housing construction even more expensive,” he said.
John Gilbert – Our Local Community
Mr Gilbert has five years experience as a councillor and extensive experience in home community management and the housing sector.
“I bring a can-do attitude. I won’t stand for bureaucratic brick walls that prevent progress. The people vote for candidates, not bureaucrats,” he said.
“Home development, its related infrastructure and business growth (unhindered by red and green tape), are the key matters to be freed up in Lake Macquarie.
“It will take a candidate who is prepared to instigate cutting through the unnecessary delays in development applications and break the status quo. That’s me.”
He said a home was a human right and, while he believes federal and states governments have made a mess of housing over the decades, they are currently without structure to address the issue.
“Local government is at the coal face of housing supply as an authority. Land supply can be increased, fees can be frozen or even reduced, development control plans can be made more favourable for flexibility for increased construction,” Mr Gilbert added.
“A strategy for means-tested home ownership for lower income buyers can be implemented at local government level. This would create exclusive home buying opportunities for people who would otherwise have no chance of home ownership.”
He also stands firm on the protection of Australia Day, as is, and Anzac Day marches.
Adam Schultz – Labor
Mr Schultz has served as a councillor for the past eight years, including as deputy mayor of Lake Macquarie.
Born and bred in the region, having grown up in Warners Bay, the father-of-three believes he has the experience, energy and skills to be mayor and will work hard to ensure continued success of local residents and businesses.
“I am the only mayoral candidate who has the capacity to hit the ground running as mayor of Lake Macquarie,” he said.
“I have the experience, energy and skills to be mayor and I will work hard to ensure the continued success of residents and businesses in Lake Macquarie.”
His priorities are continuing to invest in and improve local playgrounds, parks, recreational facilities and public open spaces.
He also wants to encourage businesses to set up in Lake Macquarie so that residents can live, work and play here and get the most out of the lake and beaches by continuing to invest in public infrastructure improvements surrounding our world-renowned wonderful natural assets.
It is his intention to hold a housing forum if elected mayor, and seek key stakeholder input into facilitating increased private investment in housing within Lake Macquarie.
“It is important to hear all perspectives and that the councillors collaborate and strive to enable increased private investment in housing within our city,” he added.
Bryce Ham – Greens
Project manager at a local software company and local volunteer, Mr Ham said he was running for council because he believed they were not delivering for the community.
“Since January, I’ve been knocking on doors across Lake Macquarie, and what I’ve heard is clear – there’s a significant disconnect between the community and our current council,” he said.
“People are increasingly worried about infrastructure not keeping up with development and a broken planning system that gives residents very little say.
“A lack of investment in the public infrastructure we need has led to unsafe roads, traffic congestion, and insufficient public parkland and services.
“Private developers should be paying their fair share to ensure our infrastructure keeps pace with growth. We’re lucky to have an incredible natural environment here in Lake Macquarie, and locals consistently tell me they want it properly protected.”
He also believes high-density housing should be in the mix to address supply issues in a current housing crisis
“It is the role of council to ensure that it is carefully planned with robust infrastructure and public services in place to support it, ensuring that growth does not come at the expense of our residents’ quality of life or our natural environment,” Mr Ham added.
“Together, we can build a community that works for everyone, not just the wealthy few.”
Rosmairi Dawson – Independent
Kate Warner – Lake Mac Independents
WEST WARD
Anthony Swinsburg – Independent
The local from Kilaben Bay believes there is a significant lack of appropriate community representation on council, effective town planning, a limited infrastructure focus and years of neglect of West Ward which he is electing for.
“I will strive to ensure the community is engaged and listened to, enabling a shared vision between community and council,” he said.
“I don’t believe political parties should be on council and my loyalty is to the community, it is not divided. I have no party agenda and I want less government interference in all facets of our lives.
“Our community requires duplication of assets and therefore demands greater efficiency. Council must remain within its core business of community services and infrastructure.”
Mr Swinsburg’s main priorities are major developments to consider community impact and timely infrastructure delivery, comprehensive community engagement, support for small business and greater efficiency.
“I support measured development of any high-density housing plan which is appropriately located, considers community, is infrastructure-enabled and considers environmental impacts,” he added.
“I do not support densification in existing residential areas, or the ad hoc waiving of minimum lot sizes or height restrictions.”
Toni Bowyer – Our Local Community
Ingrid Schraner – Greens
“I am excited to work for a good future for all of us around our beautiful Lake,” Ms Schraner said.
Growing up in Switzerland, she studied economics and worked in community development on five continents.
After two decades as an economics and finance academic, she settled on the western shores of Lake Macquarie seven years ago.
“I love the lake and the country around it and want to contribute my experience to the work of our council,” she said.
“I focus on fostering a local economy that provides good, long-term jobs and sustains communities where people take care of each other and of the environment.
“I have experienced how local government can foster economic development that puts people before profits.”
The Coal-ash Community Alliance’s research co-ordinator wants to work towards developing industries that safely use the raw materials in the 100 million tonnes of coal-ash stored around Lake Macquarie, rather than letting the ash slowly poison the lake only because that’s cheaper for power stations.
“Our council can lead and facilitate economic development that meets the social, environmental and cultural needs and aspirations of our many local communities, from preschools and footpaths to skate parks, community hubs and infrastructure,” she added.
“High-density housing only has a chance to work, if the necessary infrastructure, from tree canopies and children’s playgrounds to public transport, roads and parking, but also libraries, sport grounds and community hubs are in place.”
Eddie Milton - Independent
The retired tax office employee has worked in the audit and facilities area, including a three year secondment to the PNG Internal Revenue Service. Mr Milton has also completed 25 years service with Red Cross Telecross.
The grandfather and great grandfather has lived in the Toronto area of Lake Macquarie his whole life except for a couple of years in Sydney and three years in PNG. He have been involved in P&C associations, local rugby league, little athletics and lawn bowls.
“I don’t believe in political parties in Local Government and I’m basically standing for accountability, transparency from council and the three R’s, Rates, Rubbish and Roads,” he said.
Madeline Bishop – Labor
Jason Pauling – Liberal
Other candidates:
Lake Mac Independents – Ashley Dorse, Steve Graham, Olenka Motyka
Our Local Community – Elizabeth Cooper, Alan Hegan, Paris Southee
Greens – Kim Grierson, Kerry Suwald, Charmian Eckerlsey
Labor – David Belcher, Mackenzie Robson, Stephen Ryan
Independent – Graham Davidson, Janette Coulter, Melissa Rogan, Lorna Edwards, David Pickard, Linda Lord
Liberal – Nicholas Jones, Julie Pauling, Michael Uidam
NORTH WARD
Colin Grigg – Lake Mac Independents
The grandfather of ten has spent the last eight years on council and has served as senior Pastor in New Hope Church, Caves Beach for over two decades.
He has maintained an emphasis on being a “Representative of the People” and is an advocate for maintaining a robust democratic system of government at all levels, and protecting freedoms for future generations.
“I am concerned with the NSW Government’s TOD program for high-density housing having no plans for infrastructure to accommodate the growth,” he said.
“I am not against immigration or housing, but we need the proper resources available for people to avoid living rough, as many sadly already do.
“The number of people already dealing with this has increased recently in our area by 29 per cent. Also, Lake Macquarie is now highest on the list in NSW for people wanting to live in a regional area.
“We need better roads, more schools, more hospitals, etc, before we take in thousands more people.”
He believes he can continue to bring more support for those suffering from the cost of living, eg high electricity bills, growing supermarket prices, wants to see the protection of the regions green zones and wildlife, and also standing up for women who are abused.
Brian Adamthwaite – Labor
As a retired school principal and RFS volunteer, councillor of the past 12 years, Mr Adamthwaite believes he understands the challenges of the community in the best and worst of times.
“I am motivated to become involved in local government by a desire to protect and improve the qualities of our city,” he said.
“My experience including being a former deputy mayor and serving on multiple council and community committees; Traffic, Coastal management, Heritage, Event Funding, Cultural collections, Hunter Water Community Consultative Committee as well as the Rural Fire Service Liaison Committee, I understand the complexities of the task.
“I believe council should be responsive to the needs of the community and provide the services and infrastructure necessary to enhance residents’ quality of life.”
His main priorities are to complete the Hunter Sports Centre upgrades, commence Cardiff Town Park, construct a new learn to swim pool at West Wallsend, deliver stage one of Charlestown Lions Park, commence the Charlestown to Whitebridge shared pathway and to continue the replacement of playgrounds in the north of light Macquarie.
In regards to high-density housing in the region, Mr Adamthwaite believes there needs to be the right balance of infill in areas with infrastructure and connectivity to the wider community.
“It not only enhances the lifestyle for those residents but means clearing large tracks for Greenfield development is unnecessary,” he added.
Jack Antcliffe – Liberal
Other candidates:
Lake Mac Independents – Tara Hall, Daniel Secomb, Timothy Sullivan
Greens – Gregory Watkinson, Tal Nelson, Andrew McLean
Liberal – Daniel Swane, Susan Antcliffe, Mark Pauling
Labor – Keara Conroy, Marks Howells, Gaurav Vijay
EAST WARD
Rowen Turnbull – Independent
Michael Hannah – Lake Mac Independents
Jane Oakley – Greens
Living in Lake Macquarie since 2008, Ms Oakley has been involved with school P&Cs, football club committees and local community groups.
“Our beautiful part of the world needs to be cared for and our community looked after,” Ms Oakley said.
“We all benefit from careful urban planning, native bushland, reliable infrastructure and a close-knit and caring community.
“I want our children to have safe walkways to school, their playgrounds covered with shade sail, and free pool access during our hot summers.
“We need more trees in our streets to help beat the summer heat, better planning as our city expands so parking isn’t a nightmare and public transport that efficiently gets people to where they need to go.”
She believes council should be responsive, transparent and trustworthy.
“In an increasingly divisive world I want to build our community and our shared values of kindness, compassion and personal integrity,” she added.
“In a heating climate we need to not only save our bushland but extend it.
“Medium and high-density dwellings should be our focus instead of destroying native habitat. Combined with good planning and the right supporting infrastructure, increased density can facilitate closer communities and safer neighbourhoods.”
Matthew Schultz – Liberal
Other candidates:
Labor – Stacey Radcliffe, Christine Buckley, Joseph Steel
Independent – Kaciee Wagstaff, Dyllan Harvey, Tina Sulis
Lake Mac Independents – David Gibson, John Edwards, Allison Hannah
Greens – Elizabeth Riley, Patricia Philippou, Stephanee Reay Bartsch
Liberal – Rod Chapman, Dianne Volker
Port Stephens Council
Mayoral candidates
Leah Anderson – Labor
The Labor candidate’s family moved to Port Stephens 20 years ago and she feels it is a beautiful part of the world and wants to become the next mayor.
Ms Anderson has 35 years’ experience in finance including as a small-business owner, and has volunteered for decades including as president of Business Port Stephens.
“I have spent my first term on council learning as much as I can and being the councillor you deserve,” she said.
“I have attended 100 per cent of council meetings and briefings, which I believe is important from your elected representatives. I also regularly attend community meetings and host mobile offices – not just at election time and this will all continue.
“I have no hidden interests and no hidden agendas. I won’t juggle being mayor with another day job. I will be your full-time mayor.”
She wants to improve local roads, pathways and infrastructure, keep rates low, improve on our rubbish services, build houses all across Port Stephens, support more events, protect our environment and more.
Lack of affordable and social housing is a major platform for Ms Anderson who formed and chairs the Homelessness Stakeholder advocacy group.
“We are working on solutions for the housing crisis in Port Stephens, and council has now prepared a master plan in conjunction with Hume Housing for additional social and affordable housing in Raymond Terrace,” she said.
“I listen, I care, and I act. I am confident that if I am the new mayor, you will not be disappointed,” she added.
Mark Watson – Independent
He’s is a family man that is focused on the best interests of the community.
“With a young daughter I want to see this area at its best as she grows,” he said.
After canvassing the community and listening to many concerns from residents, Mr Watson believes there are many issues that need highlighting in the area.
“The platform on which we stand will be being vocal for the community in the fight to against the hunter offshore wind farm, returning council to the basics, such as rates, roads and rubbish, ensuring ratepayers money is spent responsibly and in line with community expectations, providing sufficient sporting facilities for our youth, empowering our volunteers and ensuring we have sufficient community consultation,” he said.
He also believes there is certainly a need for more high-density housing across the region but feels options need to be explored and sensible decisions made.
“With further population increase so does the need for further infrastructure and services. The mix needs to be right and not just a rushed band aid solution,” he added.
“I won’t be afraid to ask the hard questions and will be focused on getting the job done for our community.”
Paul Le Motte – Independent
He believes he is an ideal candidate for mayor with extensive experience on council for the last nine years and former deputy mayor.
“The experience and knowledge I have gained from a number of roles – including former president of the Housing Industry Association and Life Member of the Port Stephens Cricket Club – has given me a broad insight into the views of the community, and the issues facing society,” he said.
“A massive amount of experience and an understanding that you can’t solve the second and third biggest problems in the world by ignoring the biggest problem which is population growth.”
His Independent team is determined to make council part of the solution to the housing crisis rather than being part of the problem and is determined to redirect council spending to roads and facilities and away from bureaucracy.
“My team are utterly opposed to party politics in councils, and we ask your support in keeping Port Stephens a council of the people, and not of Sydney or Canberra,” Mr Le Motte said.
“We are just as opposed to the ridiculous idea of a wind farm off our coastline and we would use all our influence to tell the federal government to rethink the idea, including the result of this election.”
Mr Le Motte also supports high-density housing in Port Stephens LGA, but only in existing urban areas “not just anywhere”.
WEST WARD
Giacomo Arnott – Labor
Dad, professional firefighter and lawyer, Mr Arnott says he always has the community as his number one priority.
“I have served two full council terms, being on council since 2017, I’ve been fortunate enough to serve with Leah Anderson, council’s deputy mayor and together we’ve achieved great things for West Ward and Port Stephens as a whole,” he said.
“I have spent my time on council supporting community groups by attending their meetings and actioning their concerns. Locals with council issues always get the attention they deserve, and I am a regular attendee at local events to ensure the great work being done in West Ward is being recognised.”
Born and raised in Raymond Terrace, Mr Arnott has an active presence on social media and continues to provide community information and connect with his constituents. He also believes local roads need a lot more work.
“This year, council has delivered its biggest roads budget in history, which is thanks to the advocacy of Deputy Mayor Leah Anderson, who secured millions of dollars in extra funding from the NSW Government for our local roads,” he added.
“I am continuing to work with the council to secure more funding and to redirect more of our own funding into proactively repairing our road network, keeping families safe on the roads is critical.
“Continuing the construction of pathways, including the missing link on the foreshore at Raymond Terrace, is going to be a focus of mine going forward.”
If re-elected, he promises to fight for the community, not for the interests of the big end of town.
He’s also spent the last seven years working to get council to recognise and prioritise high-density as a logical solution for delivering housing targets.
“With increased housing comes more infrastructure and services, more shops and businesses, and a stronger local economy,” he said.
Peter Kafer – Independent
Other candidates:
Independent – Joshua Moxey, Huxley Rowe, Lea Smith, Nathan Avnell
Labor – Peter Francis, Sue Sneesby, Lea Harris, David Jones
CENTRAL WARD
Jason Wells – Labor
Christopher Doohan – Independent
Benjamin Niland – Independent
The 2019 Port Stephens Citizen of the Year is contesting the Central Ward.
He moved to Raymond Terrace as a nine year old in 1989, living on the RAAF base as a child, and Medowie has been “home” since 1994.
He’s been part of the steering committee of the Medowie Sports and Community Club, later becoming Medowie Social and has served on numerous council committees and sports committees for rugby, golf and more.
The civil engineer runs his own small business and was project manager of the Bobs Farm to Anna Bay duplication of Nelson Bay Rd.
He believes his small business background and service to the council’s Audit Committee will serve business, residents and council well.
“I am running on a platform of the five Rs: Roads, Rates, Rubbish, Recreation and Respect,” he said.
“After a few wet years, our roads are busted, so I want to get investment into them as a priority, in fact it will probably be my first motion.
“On top of getting rubbish and drainage right, I want people to be able to access more paths and parks across the Port and to deliver improved recreation facilities.
“I will also be ensuring more respect for ratepayers if the people of Central Ward see fit to give me the honour of being their councillor.”
Mr Niland also supports responsible development.
“We can sensibly balance development and the environment,” he said.
“I think I bring empathy and a strong desire to see people get ahead. I am someone that listens to different points of view and thinks about those views. I work well with others also.”
Scott Leech – Independent
Other candidates:
Labor – Kelly Hammond, Beverley Rabbitt
Independent – Rosanne Colling, Jaike Doohan, Steve Tucker, Nathan Ashpole, Scott Schultz, Neville Sutrin, George Trinkler
EAST WARD
Nathan Errington – Liberal
Local soccer coach, Newcastle Hunter Rugby League Board member and former business chamber president Mr Errington is committed to fighting everyday for local residents and small business.
His focus is on upgrading local sporting facilities, urgently improving roads, and protecting the community from projects that don’t align with local values, including offshore wind farms off the Port Stephens coastline.
“Electing a Labor Mayor will only fast-track this project, so it’s vital to send Labor a message by voting Liberal this September to ensure we take action on the issues like this that truly matter to our community,” he said.
“We believe it’s time to move beyond just talking about road improvements in boardrooms, we need urgent action to fix our roads and ensure they are safe and accessible for everyone.
“Additionally, we are committed to enhancing local sporting facilities to promote a healthier lifestyle and stronger community bonds.”
He believes he will bring a strong voice for urgent action and real progress to the council if elected.
“I am dedicated to addressing key issues. I will push for immediate, tangible improvements rather than letting these issues be endlessly debated in meeting rooms,” Mr Errington added.
“My goal is to ensure that the council is focused on delivering practical results that improve the quality of life for everyone in our area.”
He also believes in a balanced approach to housing development and ensuring that any high-density housing is thoughtfully planned and considers the unique character and needs of the community.
Kimberley Scott – Greens
Other candidates:
Labor – Roz Armstrong, Mackenzie Goring, Sharon Smart
Liberal – Katy McHugh, Geoffrey McHugh
Greens – Mark Adamaski, Jane Rich
Independent – Jamie Green, Troy Radford
*All Hunter candidates were contacted to be involved in this article.
Alleged arsonist accused of spraying home with bullets
A Newcastle man has faced court after neighbouring detectives on two separate strike forces arrested the accused over an alleged $12m arson on a council chambers and a drive-by shooting.
Guns seized after man charged over home shoot-up
An arsenal of guns and a NSW Police baseball cap have been seized by police after a man was arrested and stands accused of spraying a home with bullets in Newcastle last month.