Cootamundra Ward

Jeffrey Rickard, Nyssa Leerveld, Greg Cheesman, Alec Ferguson, Andrew Munroe, Kieran Simpson

Jeffrey Rickard

Cootamundra Ward

I am committed to improving the planning and building process for better outcomes that recognise architectural quality, community amenity and streetscape quality. I am concerned that with the increasing residential developments along Whitehorse Road and deeper into the heartland of our Ward we will lose the treed character and open spaces that characterise Blackburn generally.

Whilst the Victorian State Government has taken much control by demanding a doubling of the housing density in Blackburn and surrounding areas we have the opportunity, now, to reframe regulations so that the forecast increase in numbers be balanced with better planning for more sensitive building outcomes. This can be achieved by using shared amenities, environmentally effective technologies and creative architectural solutions.

The planned Activity Centre in Box Hill in addition to local development will impact established infrastructure and services such as schooling, healthcare, asset maintenance, prevention of vandalism and waste management. These matters need to be addressed more thoroughly than are currently.

Also, the Creeklands is a very important part of our Ward and requires more dedicated assistance for weed control and general care. Further, when an opportunity arises for Council to expand the Creeklands footprint by purchasing a property such as 60 Main Street then it ought to be seen to explore every avenue available to achieve that outcome.

Whitehorse Cootamundra Ward is a fine example of how nature and residential development can co-exist harmoniously. Residents are proud of their surrounds and appreciate the responsibility we have as a community to maintain and improve all of our circumstances. I am keen that Council contribute to that attitude rather than become an imposition to it.

I have no political affiliations.

Authorised by Jeffrey Rickard, 16 The Avenue, Blackburn, VIC 3130

Nyssa Leereveld

Cootamundra Ward

Hi, my name is Nyssa Leereveld, and I’m a young academic running for council in the Cootamundra ward with the Greens Party. I’m passionate about making a difference in our community and ensuring that my generation, and future generations, have a livable and sustainable future.

I’m standing for council because we need leaders who truly listen to and represent the needs of the people, not just powerful corporations or developers. With my background in criminology and studies in human rights, law, and ethics, I understand the global injustices we face, and I’m dedicated to addressing them locally by creating a more inclusive, fair, and environmentally sustainable Whitehorse.

My key interests are tackling the climate crisis, promoting affordable housing, and building a community where everyone—regardless of class, race, gender, or ability—is heard and supported. I will advocate for strong local climate action, better public services, and policies that put people and the planet ahead of profits.

As a member of the Greens, I stand by our values of grassroots democracy, environmental sustainability, social justice, and non-violence. I refuse to take donations from property developers or corporations because I believe that our community, not corporate interests, should shape our future.

With your support, I will work tirelessly to create positive, meaningful change for everyone in Whitehorse. It’s time for a shift, and together we can build a healthier, more inclusive future for all. Your vote is powerful—thank you for trusting me to represent you.

Authorised by M. Shield, Victorian Greens, Suite 1.05, Level 1, Queen St Melbourne VIC 3000

Greg Cheesman

Cootamundra Ward

Thank you for considering me as your local Cootamundra council member. I work & live in your ward therefore have a vested interest in ensuring Whitehorse council is running according to our expectations.

With an important change of representative comes a reinvigorated approach to council. Decisions made on our behalf by a handful of people requires oversight, and as a businessman of 25plus years I seek to address a number of challenges:

• Yearly increases to property rates coupled with a decrease to services & service quality.
• Over-development of multi-storey apartment towers in residential areas.
• General neglect of basic maintenance, including graffiti & unrepaired potholes & footpaths.
• Government acquisition of community open spaces for developments benefiting others.
• Small business closures due to cost of living crisis impacts.
• Youth mental health support services & secondary school early leavers.

My skills & experience in communications, marketing & negotiations, as well as in public speaking, events hosting & community fundraising, will ensure I achieve the best outcomes for our community.

Please visit my website www.gregcheesman.com for more detailed information.

As one of you I will seek & welcome your input & work only for positive outcomes for our community. Vote 1 Greg Cheesman

Authorised by G Cheesman P.O. Box 1108 Blackburn Vic. 3130

Greg provided a more comprehensive response to all our questions.  We encourage you to click here to read his answers.

Andrew Munroe

Cootamundra Ward

As a sitting Councillor and a lifelong resident of the Cootamundra Ward it has been my privilege to serve. I bring a deep understanding of the Ward and the challenges that we face both locally and across the breadth of our municipality.

Many challenges confront Council, whether they be the planning pressures put on Council by the state government, the population targets we are expected to meet, the challenge to keep open space additions up with that growth, increasing government compliance mandates, our rate base falling behind cpi in each of the past four years and our community’s expectation of ever higher quality infrastructure. All these things need experienced and strong advocacy to ensure Whitehorse can keep up and even attempt to get ahead.

My community engagement started long before my time on Council. I can make a difference by connecting our community to what we do and activate residents to also be advocates for our community with the other tiers of Government (particularly State).

I am interested in ensuring Council has a greater presence in Box Hill as it is now referred to as Melbourne’s second CBD. There is now a critical mass of Business, government departments and community activity such that it is incumbent on Council to have a greater connection.

While I have been a continuous member of the Liberal Party since my late teens, I have not in all my years brought party political politics to Whitehorse (Council meeting recordings will bear out). Having said that, I am concerned that at this election in Cootamundra Ward there is a high level of politics.  Two of the endorsed party candidates are talking about issues way beyond the borders of Whitehorse.  I encourage you to be informed, look at the public statements and websites as you decide your preferred local government representative.

Authorised by Andrew Munroe, PO Box 30, Blackburn, 3130

Eley Ward

Daniel Griffiths, Euan Thomas, Yuhong Liu, David Solly, Trudy Skilbeck

Daniel Griffiths

Eley Ward

I’m running for council as an independent candidate from Blackburn South to ensure better value for money from local government, and to strengthen the voice of residents. My focus is on leading with common sense and evidence-based solutions within the council’s responsibilities.

As a Melbourne University academic, I focus on trimming wasteful spending in the healthcare system through a portfolio of health and policy research. My work involves collaborating with State and Commonwealth government agencies, and the private sector, to drive effective change. Now, I’m bringing this expertise to Whitehorse City Council to ensure we make cost-effective decisions to maximise improvements to our neighbourhood.

Here’s what I stand for:

1. Value for Money: I will ensure council funds are spent efficiently on core services like waste management, road maintenance, and capital works, while keeping rate increases below inflation.
2. Sustainable Development: I support growth that respects the character of our neighbourhood, protects green spaces, and integrates sustainable practices.
3. Integrity and Transparency: I am committed to open, accountable council decisions with genuine community engagement to strengthen residents’ voices, and to reduce the power imbalance between residents and the council.

On these matters, I also support reducing bureaucracy and strengthening oversight of the council CEO role’s performance (with a salary exceeding $420,000) to accelerate improvements.

Productive engagement with the State Government on key issues – such as the Suburban Rail Loop, municipal housing targets, and residential development provisions – will be crucial in shaping the future of Whitehorse.

Outside of my professional life, I’m passionate about music. I conduct community choirs, serve as a lay clerk (singer) at St Paul’s Cathedral, and enjoy regular walks around Orchard Grove Reserve.

I am dedicated to improving our neighbourhood through measured, effective leadership.

Daniel Griffiths: Independent candidate for Eley ward

Authorised by D. Griffiths, PO Box 278, Blackburn South, VIC 3130. griffithseley@gmail.com

Trudy Skilbeck

Eley Ward

I am re-standing in Whitehorse, for Eley Ward; where I live, work, walk, shop and volunteer.

A first-time Councillor from 2020, there is much more to do that leverages my governance, strategic, empathic, and organisational skills. I operate with calm and respect. I engage with hardly heard voices, as well as the louder ones.

I want continuity for Eley, to build on initiatives that are essential for community strengthening. Climate response is one. I led the move to a Whitehorse Climate Emergency Declaration in 2022 (which needs to be further activated with greater priority). Open space master planning is another (Mirrabooka/Wurrundjeri Walk, Ballyshannassy Park, Eley Park). Responses to State planning ‘reform’ (ResCode changes, Big Build projects, and housing targets) are top of the list.

All require deep understanding and a medium to long term view of what the community – as a whole – says is in its best interests.

All these issues require leaders who are great communicators. This includes being able to listen well, being meaningfully transparent and cost conscious, and being effective in engaging the people of Eley and Whitehorse in the transformation that is their own solutions.

I have never had any connection to any political party. It is my genuine independence and lack of political self-interest that makes a large part of the difference I bring.

I am a Member of Bungalook Nursery, Neighbourhood Watch, and the Whitehorse Interfaith Network. I engage with the Christian network that is Whitehorse Churches Care. These are the kinds of connections that help create an engaged, co-designed, fair, and sustainable future.

Authorised by Trudy Skilbeck, PO Box 2101, Blackburn South, 3130

www.trudyskilbeck.com/2024-election/, trudy4eley2024@gmail.com

Elgar Ward

Heather Maltby, Blair Barker, David Tenni, Thu Le

Kingsley Ward

Maeve Luu, Amanda McNeill, Greg Smith, Jotin Tonjamba Khuman, Gayle Goldsmith, Nadia Pitisano, Kirsten Langford

Amanda McNeill

Kingsley Ward

My name is Amanda McNeill and I am the full-time incumbent Councillor standing for re-election in Kingsley Ward, Whitehorse City Council.

Having served as Councillor over the past four years and raised my family in Whitehorse, I am devoted full time to this role. I have always been accessible, listened, and acted promptly to put residents’ concerns before Council.

I have worked hard to build strong connections and have substantial knowledge and experience of Council process, ensuring efficiency while serving. I am a Liberal Party member who takes a balanced and objective view of every matter that comes before Council, putting the community interest ahead of party politics.

I am passionate about Whitehorse retaining and expanding its green spaces and being a safe place with clean, modern facilities and services that meet the needs of all its residents and businesses. As such, I have advocated for the Mont Albert Heritage Station Building and Plaza rebuild, the Hamilton Streetscape upgrade, and the Wattle Park shopping strip enhancements.

Looking ahead, I’ll continue to work on: keeping rates well below inflation; prioritising environmental protection, sustainable design and open spaces; supporting significant improvements to Gawler Chain Parks; and opposing inappropriate and over development.

I’m also focused on improving community safety and security, including funding for on demand lighting, and a substantial plan to upgrade footpaths, roads and drains. I’ll seek further investment opportunities for girls and women, diverse communities, people with disabilities, youth, older adults, local business, libraries, organics recycling, and the new waste to energy conversion program.

I’m committed to Council’s ongoing financial sustainability and efficient service delivery, and will use my diverse skills and experience working in the private, public and community sector to advantage.

Authorised by Amanda McNeill, PO Box 285, Surrey Hills 3127

mcneillforkingsley@gmail.com

www.mcneillforkingsley.com.au

https://www.facebook.com/AmandaMcNeillforKingsley amandamcneill.com.au

Gayle Goldsmith

Kingsley Ward

I am a retiree and live in the Kingsley ward where I enjoy walking my two dogs around our beautiful tree lined streets.

For 25 years I ran my own garden design business and am passionate about parks, gardens and street scapes. These are the lungs of our cities and must be preserved and increased where ever possible.

I am aware there is a need to provide more housing and would like to see council cut red tape to assist builders and developers provide much needed homes. However, I oppose over development that reduces our green spaces and trees which are vital in keeping our city cooler and more liveable.

I support community solar initiatives such as battery storage, shade structures with solar to be built in open carparks and the installation of solar panels along railway lines as Japan is doing.

For 20 years I have been actively involved as a volunteer raising funds for a children’s charity. I believe volunteering programs should be encouraged, at all levels, to promote community engagement and giving back to society.

I support strengthening community programs for our aging population to avoid a sense of isolation and loneliness that comes with loss of mobility. It is vital that all public spaces, particularly footpaths, can be safe for all the community but especially those with mobility issues.

I am strongly against inappropriate use of rate payers funds and believe the council must put the basic needs of residents as the number one priority.  I am a member of the Liberal Party.

To make contact with Ms Goldsmith, please write to Eastsider News at PO Box 392, Mont Albert Vic 3127 or email eastsidernews1@gmail.com.  We will forward all correspondence to her.

Nadia Pitisano

Kingsley Ward

I’m Nadia Pitisano and I’m standing as your independent candidate for the Kingsley Ward in Whitehorse City Council.

I’ve lived in Whitehorse for ten years, and my husband and I are raising our three daughters here. The boundary of Belmore Road separates me from Kingsley, but my community and connections lie within it.

I have a background in data insights and analysis, and for the past decade, I’ve committed myself to family and community. I’ve volunteered extensively and led not-for-profit teams through cultural change and implementing good governance practices, including roles at Friend Street Kindergarten, Playstation Occasional Care and Boroondara Park Primary School. Many of the families I’ve served in these volunteer roles live, work and play in Kingsley.

Our municipality is rapidly changing, with population growth, housing targets and infrastructure projects significantly impacting health and wellbeing. I know from personal experience that civic engagement builds belonging, and when we feel part of a wider community, we contribute to and improve it for the benefit of all.

I’m focused on innovative and cost-effective initiatives to improve liveability, health and sustainability in Whitehorse, including access to quality open space and building an inclusive, connected, active community that fosters residents’ values and improves their quality of life.

I’m committed to transparency, and I’ve never been a political party member. If elected as your independent Councillor, my decision-making will always be informed by broad consultation, data and evidence. I’ll advocate fiercely for our community and work effectively with other Councillors to make balanced decisions. Most importantly, I have strong governance skills and a deep sense of integrity.

Please visit my website at nadia4kingsley.com.au for more details on my policy priorities or contact me directly by phone: 0490 089 900  or email: nadia@nadia4kingsley.com.au

Authorised by Nadia Pitisano, PO Box 237, Mont Albert, Victoria 3127

Kirsten Langford

Kingsley Ward

I am standing for Kingsley Ward in Whitehorse because I firmly believe local government is best served when the member lives within their ward.

As a true local of Kingsley and living here for over 30 years, I understand the issues affecting Whitehorse. I am a working mum with senior corporate experience to CEO level. I currently lecture part-time at Swinburne University teaching Planning, Project Management and Marketing. Our family is deeply embedded here. Our three children attended neighbourhood schools and swimming clubs.

As President of Friends of Lorne Parade Reserve, I am passionate about protectinng public open space. I strongly support Box Hill Brickworks becoming new parkland, creating a once in a generation opportunity for significant new open space in our community. I support a permanent off-leash dog park within Whitehorse.

Being active in Kingsley community groups, I champion proper community consultation. I support a petition to prioritise fixing our deteriorating footpaths.

Whitehorse face huge challenges with proposed Government changes to Planning Laws and intensive densification. I will uphold community rights over excessive and inappropriate developments that impact the liveability of our suburbs.

As a founding member of Mont Albert and Surrey Hills Traders, I fight to keep local businesses viable.

I promise every dollar spent delivers maximum value to minimise your rates. I will scrutinise reasons behind outsourcing of all council services, including Aquatic facilities.

Party politics should not influence the workings of local government. I stand as a strong, independently minded candidate who puts the community first. I will always vote for the best outcomes for residents of Whitehorse and Kingsley.

I love the people of Kingsley and the fabric that connects us. As a true local resident, I bring extensive professional and community experience.

You can rely on me to listen and always have your back.

Website:  http://www.kirstenlangford.com.au/

Kirsten4kingsley@gmail.com.

Phone: 0450 798 409

www.facebook.com/kirsten4kingsley/;

www.instagram.com/kirsten4kingsley/

Authorised by Kirsten Langford PO Box 255 Mont Albert Vic 3127

Lake Ward

Denise Massoud, Zak Fennell, Hong Lin Zheng, Hayley Weller

Denise Massoud

Lake Ward

A long term Whitehorse resident, volunteer and current councillor, I listen to you, representing your views honestly to Council. I am not endorsed by any political party.

My advocacy for tree protection and our environment is proven. I initiated discussions culminating in Significant Landscape Overlay 9 to protect tree canopy and biolinks. I continue to support community engagement regarding solutions to grow tree canopy through additional planting in open spaces and encouraging succession planting.

I uphold community expectations for appropriate development, neighbourhood character and residential amenity. We must enhance open spaces, investing in more when available.

Positive Ageing activities supporting community health and wellbeing are essential to build connected communities who engage with others. Watch for the seniors exercise park soon in Tunstall Park. This is alongside the Nunawading Community Hub, an outstanding destination for many (U3A, basketball, badminton, lapidary club and more) and now includes a social-enterprise café. The 1^st Nunawading Scout Hall upgrade adjacent to Tunstall Park is the envy of many local groups.

I also am proud of successful advocacy for Morton Park redevelopment, Slater Reserve playspace upgrade and Blackburn Lake enhancements including Visitors Centre, barbeque facilities, vegetation, pathways and signage.

It is important to also acknowledge the success of The Round as a premier destination for performing arts. Improved community facilities are essential.

I actively support local businesses, their economy and jobs for residents. I am proud of our latest waste to energy project to reduce our climate change impact.

I stand for transparency, accountability, appropriate services, improved infrastructure, and low rates delivering value. I will listen to you, hold ward forums, communicate and act.

Contact me: Phone: 0418309622. Email: denisemassoud.lakeward@gmail.com . Join me for a Zoom chat.

Re-elect me to continue to actively serve you as Lake Ward residents. Vote 1 Denise Massoud.

Authorised by Su Dempsey, 43 Jeffrey Street, Blackburn 3130

Hayley Weller

Lake Ward

Why am I standing for council? We live in a great municipality and council does fantastic work, but it has started to cut services. This concerns me because what is next to go? My grandmother enjoys living in her own home and has been impacted by council cutting home cleaning support. For my grandmother, it was more than having a clean home and gave her connection and social interaction with her regular cleaner. I care about and will work to ensure that no more services are cut, and more is invested to meet residents’ needs at all life stages.

I will make a difference by working as one with the community in an open and collaborative way to solve issues together. I believe that people should be included in decisions that affect them, and that issues are not just matters for a councillor to decide.

My key interests are: maintained and safe infrastructure – including footpaths, drains and lighting in streets for walking, bike paths for riding, and local and collector roads for driving and pedestrians; suitable sport and leisure facilities for healthy, active communities; soft plastics recycling is available in Whitehorse; responsible finances; and extensive tree canopy, uniform street planting, urban design, playgrounds and open spaces continue to be highly valued.

I am an Australian Labor Party member, but I am not endorsed nor funded by that party.

I can be contacted via my website at vote1hayleyweller.com or via email at vote1hayleyweller@gmail.com

Authorised by Hayley Weller PO Box 1061 Blackburn North Vic 3130

Mahoneys Ward

Jason Martin, Nildhara Gadani, Mark Lane, Anne V Makhijani

Mark Lane

Mahoneys Ward

As a two-time Mayor and working in Emergency Services, I care for our community and what impacts on our local environment.

Over the past four years, we as a council have achieved many great outcomes and commenced many more. For Mahoneys Ward, we have been focused on footpaths, roads, tree plantings, and establishing Masterplans for precincts. Precincts such as Mahoneys Reserve, Forest Hill Reserve, Davey Lane (in conjunction with Parks Victoria) and East Burwood Reserve all having significant community input and feedback incorporated into the development of the plans.

I continue to strive for the best outcomes possible in relation to our community amenity in planning decisions. Good governance is a motivator to ensure we get the representation we want and a true local, logical voice for the things that matter most in our community.

Striving to keep our community safe, healthy and maintaining liveability, the very reason many of us chose to live here!

I will:

• continue to bring Good Governance to Whitehorse,
• bring value for money for our rates,
• continue the replacement and maintenance of roads and footpaths,
• fight for fair for renewal of sports and community facilities and lobby government to pull their weight for our community.

My campaign is fully self funded and I am not endorsed by a political party but I do bring Liberal values with a local focus.

My goals for the coming four years are to:

• See the new pavilion built at Mahoneys Reserve, catering for all users.
• Completion of Master Plan for Forest Hill Reserve and redevelopment actions.
• Support and re-vitalise Brentford Square shopping centre.
• Push to keep the Customer Service Centre at Forest Hill Shopping Centre.
• Support all local traders in their fight for survival.

With myself and my family being involved in the local community it is important to see the area thrive into the future.

Authorised by Mark Lane, PO Box 2, Forest Hill, VIC 3131

Simpson Ward

Tim Kirke, Prue Cutts

Prue Cutts

Simpson Ward

Hi to all! I am Councillor Prue Cutts, currently representing Whitehorse Council’s Simpson Ward, which includes parts of Mitcham and Vermont. I seek your vote for re-election as your Simpson Ward Councillor so I can continue to be a strong advocate for our local community.

I am a genuine independent, unaligned to any political party, and have brought a balanced voice of reason to Council reflecting community sentiment for the last 8 years. My family has lived in Mitcham (Simpson Ward) for 11 years, and I have been a Whitehorse resident for 25 years.

I have worked as a Psychologist (Careers Counsellor) prior to my time on Council and am a registered Teacher, having worked across primary and secondary schools and in adult education.

As a Whitehorse Councillor, I’m hard-working and approachable, and understand the varied and complex needs of our diverse and multicultural community. I have pro-actively sought community views on things that matter to residents and have consistently advocated to successfully achieve desired outcomes.

Over these last 4 years we have completed the Heatherdale Reserve pavilion, Vermont Reserve oval and 3 new playgrounds, introduced FOGO (Food and Garden Organics) service, and upgraded many footpaths and other road infrastructure. 40 plus new park seats and picnic tables have improved the liveability of our beautiful area.

I support environmental sustainability including enhancing open spaces, protecting Whitehorse’s tree canopy and saving our neighbourhood from over-development. I pro-actively support small business and community groups as we face cost-of-living challenges. I will continue to back financial sustainability, transparency, accountability, and efficient use of Council rates.

Please contact me on 0425 701 796, by email at pruecutts@gmail.com, or Facebook @councillorpruecutts. Thank you to those who’ve taken the time to read my candidate statement. Please Vote 1 Prue Cutts!

Authorised by Prue Cutts, PO Box 2195, Rangeview Vic 3132.

Sparks Ward

Tina Liu, Carol Zhang, Aaron Qin, Saravina Afaj, Peter Allan

Tina Liu

Sparks Ward

As a local Whitehorse Councillor for the past eight years and a former Mayor, I have worked collaboratively with our community to drive positive change. Together, we’ve achieved great outcomes and there is more to do.

While change is a part of life, the pace of growth in Box Hill and Box Hill South, has brought opportunities as well as challenges. With Box Hill being a key activity centre, major State infrastructure projects such as the Suburban Rail Loop and the draft housing targets are also slated for our area.

As a longtime Box Hill resident, business owner and community leader, I offer strong, stable representation and a proven track record in advocating for the needs of our community. I am an effective leader, who is experienced, engaged and has in-depth understanding of our city, our diverse community and local government. My ongoing advocacy puts me in the best position to work with various stakeholders, including other levels of government.

My fight continues for better liveability, accessibility and sustainability – including further public open space opportunities – having successfully secured new open space funding for Box Hill and Box Hill South. I support initiatives boosting health, wellbeing, social connection and a thriving economy. I stand for sound governance and financial management, ensuring that Council delivers value to residents and ratepayers.

As an independent candidate, I am not, nor have I ever been a member of a political party. Community interests will always come first. I seek your support at this upcoming election to continue fighting for the issues that matter to you.

Visit: www.tina-liu.com for more information.

Authorised by Tina Liu, PO Box 5024, Laburnum VIC 3130

Peter Allan

Sparks Ward

I have nominated for Whitehorse Council as it is time to address significant issues that I believe have not been addressed.

The main issue, if elected, that I will raise in Council is to fight against the State Government’s plan to double the size of housing in the city to around 150,000 dwellings in the next 25 years. This plan, I believe will be a disaster for the livability of our City. The proposed loss of residents’ third party appeal rights on planning applications must be opposed.

I wish to serve my community and will be a point of difference as I will seek to make Whitehorse a great city with great roads, footpaths, more open space, parks and gardens, fantastic shopping centres with good services and the widest variety of goods possible. Great transport options. Assist in business opportunities that provide longevity of businesses and employment of locals. I am not a member of a political party.

Other key issues that I will raise and support are, as these are of special interest in my policy platform:

• No sell-off of council assets and no outsourcing of council community services.
• Council rate rises must be kept to a minimum and there should be a freeze on council charges and fees to assist in the cost of living.
• Support for affordable housing projects.
• Support for our sporting, community, arts groups and neighbourhood houses and facilities’ upgrades.
• Where possible, increase council child care places.
• Smart traffic solutions with residents’ support.
• Clean up our streets and more action on graffiti.
• Reintroduce two free tip vouchers.
• Establish the ‘Whitehorse Live Music Festival’ to give our local musicians a real go.
• Work with Police on public safety solutions, including more safety cameras.

Please feel free to contact me on 0430 000 838 or email: peterjallan@hotmail.com

Authorised by Peter Allan, 34 Elmhurst Road, Blackburn 3130

Terrara Ward

Jarrod Gunn, George Manos

Jarrod Gunn

Terrara Ward

My name is Jarrod Gunn and I am a local, independent and community-minded candidate for Whitehorse Council’s Terrara ward.

I have a proven track record for improving our community having been a board member for many local institutions including kindergartens, schools, sports clubs and the local Neighbourhood House.

I get involved in these bodies because I value having a say in matters that impact me and my community. I am active locally and have the energy and drive to represent this great community. I am an attentive listener and an expressive communicator and will be an asset to this community within Council.

As a local, I understand the pressures being faced by this community, from fear of change to our essential services and neighbourhood character to cost of living pressures and community safety concerns like crime and traffic around our schools.

Like my neighbours, I value our green tree scape but not at the cost to amenity, so I am championing a pragmatic approach to problematic tree management to specifically address resident’s frustration whilst increasing overall tree canopy.

As a community we value our open space, walking and cycling infrastructure and our local sporting and community facilities. As such I envision future improvement needed to the East Burwood Reserve and the Vermont South Library precincts.

I am not, nor have I ever been a member of a political party – I value my independence and believe Councils should be free from political influence. The issues debated in the Chamber should be local and relevant to our community, however, that does not mean we should be ignorant to the broader concerns of our constituents. A vote for me is a vote for sensible and responsive local government.

Authorised by Jarrod Gunn, PO Box 6197, Vermont South 3133.

jarrodgunnforterrara@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/jarrodgunnforterrara

Walker Ward

Stephanie Gaut, Ben Stennett, Josh Dwyer, Philip Daw, Preston Brown, Christine Davis

Stephanie Gaut

Walker Ward

I am delighted to have this opportunity to support my community as a Whitehorse councillor. I have been a part of the Whitehorse community since 1999.

I hope to create a more connected, vibrant and informed community by championing greater transparency at Whitehorse City Council, by ensuring access key council information and services, and by scrutinising council’s planning approvals to ensure Whitehorse gains only appropriate mid or high-density developments.

I will also promote a cleaner, greener Whitehorse with more equitable and accessible open spaces including Whitehorse’s first dedicated fenced dog park and provide a community voice for improved traffic management and road safety.

I will work to ensure council spends its funds where they are most needed. This will include helping our aging and our most vulnerable access necessities such as emergency food banks, crisis support and in-home care to help people stay at home safely for longer.

A strong community includes and respects all its members. As a Whitehorse councillor, I hope to use my Chinese-Australian heritage to support a more connected community through greater integration and accessible information for new migrants and international students. Together, we can make a difference in our community and create lasting, sustainable change.

I am NOT affiliated with any political party. I am standing as a 100% independent candidate for the community.

Contact me by email at gaut.stephanie@gmail.com

To make contact with Ms Gaut, please write to Eastsider News at PO Box 392, Mont Albert Vic 3127 or email eastsidernews1@gmail.com.  We will forward all correspondence to her.

Preston Brown

Walker Ward

As a candidate for Walker Ward councillor, I will be in favour of freezing rates to ease the financial burden on families. Speaking with parents at my daughter’s local school and kinder, the financial pressures on local families are in need of any assistance.

With a double diploma in building and construction and management, and over 20 years experience in construction, I will focus on maintenance and upgrades of local parks, schools, and roads. Proper planning and budgeting will ensure that projects are completed efficiently and effectively.

As a father and husband, I understand the importance of family values in our community. I will work to uphold these values and create a strong sense of unity among residents.

Having grown up in a small business family, I’m dedicated to supporting local businesses. I will personally work to ensure that they have access to resources and assistance they need to thrive in our community.

With a strong foundation in family values and a deep appreciation for our country and community, I am dedicated to serving the people of Walker Ward with integrity and compassion. I hope to earn your trust and vote in the upcoming election. Thank you for your consideration.

Authorised by Preston Brown, 4 Dalmor Ave Mitcham 3132.

Preston has given more comprehensive answers to all our questions. To read his answers on why he is standing for Council, how he will make a difference, what are his key interests or issues, and whether he is a member of a political party, and if so which party, please click here

Wattle Ward

Greg Dixon, Andrew Davenport, Sandy Li

Andrew Davenport

Wattle Ward

I’m running for re-election in Wattle Ward, where I’ve proudly served as your Councillor for 12 years. With my experience and 24 years in private sector and non-profit boards, I’m committed to protecting our neighbourhood’s character and reducing your cost of living.

If re-elected, I’ll continue to be your voice in Council, focusing on:

• Enhancing our library services, with the introduction of self-service extended opening hours;
• Defending neighbourhood character including opposing inappropriate development;
• Boosting the local economy;
• Introducing Council operational spending caps to avoid waste;
• Improving open spaces, like transforming Bennettswood Northern Oval to allow for organised support;
• Keep Aquatics in Public Hands;
• Supporting a Whitehorse transparency hub;
• Increasing funding for footpaths and drainage to improve climate change resilience;
• Implementing Victorian Safer Design Guidelines for public spaces to improve community safety; and
• Creating more opportunities for women, girls, youth, and seniors.

I’m active in our community, visiting local clubs, service organizations, and multicultural groups to hear your concerns and take appropriate action. As a keen supporter of active transport, I promote walking, public transport, and cycling.

My membership in the Liberal Party has helped me enhance my values of equality of opportunity, freedom of individual thought and choice, supporting volunteers and community organisations, and encouraging not-for-profit and private enterprises to thrive.

I’m here to listen and serve you. Reach out to me on one of the below methods to let me know how I can help you:

Mobile: 0494 142 416

Email: andrew.m.davenport1@gmail.com

Facebook: CrAndrewDavenport, WeChat: Andrew_Davenport

Authorised by Andrew Davenport PO Box 2230, Blackburn South, VIC, 3130