Surf Coast Shire election 2024: Torquay candidate survey

Find out about this year’s candidates.

Picture: Alan Barber

Martin Duke

Torquay candidate Martin Duke

Age: 65

Occupation: Spectacle Maker

Do you live in the ward? Yes, I have lived in Torquay for over 33 years.

Are you or have you ever been a member of a political party? If so, which one(s)? No, I am running as an independent candidate and have never been a member of a political party.

What are the three key issues you are campaigning on? Mental health support, strengthening community services (youth and seniors), and promoting sustainable progress that preserves the Surf Coast’s natural environment.

Should council only focus on the three Rs - roads, rates and rubbish? No, council must also prioritise mental health, community services, and environmental sustainability to create a thriving, balanced community.

Do you believe Australia Day should remain on January 26? I believe the community should have a respectful and inclusive discussion on the date to ensure it reflects our shared values.

Do you think we are currently facing a climate emergency? Yes, we are facing a climate emergency, and urgent action is needed to protect our environment for future generations.

Phoebe Crockett

Torquay candidate Phoebe Crockett

Age: 31

Occupation: Placemaking Officer

Do you live in the ward? I currently rent in Anglesea

Are you or have you ever been a member of a political party?If so, which one(s)? I am a Greens endorsed candidate

What are the three key issues you are campaigning on? Let’s look after our natural environment and one another.

3 focus areas:

[1] climate resilience, environmental protection [2] happy neighbourhoods [3] thriving main streets.

Should council only focus on the three Rs - roads, rates and rubbish? Infrastructure such as roads and rubbish removal are essential. However, Council has a much broader scope, so a balanced approach is required to meet evolving needs.

Do you believe Australia Day should remain on January 26? January 26 is not the date to celebrate, it is a day of mourning. We can change the date for a more inclusive celebration.

Do you think we are currently facing a climate emergency?I agree with and support Surf Coast Shire’s declaration of a climate emergency, we need to act urgently to build our resilience to climate impacts.

Liz Pattison

Torquay candidate Liz Pattison

Age: 41

Occupation: Mayor of Surf Coast Shire

Do you live in the ward? Yes

Are you or have you ever been a member of a political party?If so, which one(s)? I am an independent candidate

What are the three key issues you are campaigning on? I am committed to creating a healthy connected community; revitalising Torquay’s centre, climate action, safe foot and bike paths for our kids and supporting our community’s clubs.

Should council only focus on the three Rs - roads, rates and rubbish? Mindful of cost of living, council must support services important to our residents, like waste collection, maintaining assets (e.g roads, sporting facilities and playgrounds) and operating libraries

Do you believe Australia Day should remain on January 26? Australia Day is a National issue and one to be decided by our federal government. It is important that all Australian’s have a day to come together and celebrate being Australian.

Do you think we are currently facing a climate emergency? Yes, and I am committed to taking a local climate action leadership role to preserve the beautiful community we live in for our future generations.

Rebecca Bourke

Did not respond

Paul Barker

Did not respond

Eric Menogue

Did not respond

Originally published as Surf Coast Shire election 2024: Torquay candidate survey