Saturday is polling day in the Port Stephens Council elections. We asked the lead candidates from East Ward to explain what they would bring to council, to help voters reach determine how they would vote.
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My wife Adriana and I have lived in the Bay for 38 years. I am a retired Marine Biologist and I have been an Independent Port Stephens councillor for 30 years, serving two years as mayor. My community involvement includes; chair of the Marine Park committee; Chair Estuary Management committee; president Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre; vice president Tomaree Sports Council. I am passionate about our pristine environment. I explore our waterways by Kayak and our National Park by bike or on foot. I bring to council my vast knowledge and experience, combined with enthusiasm and sound reasoning.
- John Nell, Independent
My goals as councillor will be to; continue to build council’s financial sustainability after turning around a daunting $13 million deficit in 2009 to a healthy $1.5 million surplus in 2017; continue to co-ordinate the planning and funding of the Fingal Bay Link Road; build a stronger, more cohesive council that will serve our community; roll out Port Stephens Council approved Pathway plan; continue to enhance strong partnerships with our amazing community groups. As a councillor for 13 years and deputy mayor for five years, I believe I have what it takes to lead council, in partnership with our community, into a flourishing future.
- Sally Dover, Independent
As your elected representative in East Ward, my team and I would take immediate steps to revitalise Nelson Bay town centre including much needed car parking. This would include connectivity of the town centre with the foreshore.This high priority project will generate long term jobs for our youth. My team will be actively pursuing tertiary education opportunities for our youth which will enhance their job prospects. We will also actively entice additional specialist health and community services to the Tomaree Peninsula including support for the vulnerable, victims of domestic violence and mental health services.
- Ryan Palmer, Independent
My name is David Simm. I live at Corlette, and have been an active member of our community for many years, working hard to improve our local area. I want to see the Tomaree Peninsula as a vibrant, exciting tourist hub, which also caters for locals and listens to their needs, wants and desires. As a Mining Health & Safety Representative, I’m used to representing people and working to advance their interests. The skills gained in this role will be vital in the new council. I want to see a community-led approach to ensure that planning and the needs of our area are considered and made clear for people wanting to improve our area.
- David Simm, Country Labor
I am a Salamander Bay local, president of the Port Stephens Liberal Party Branch and I spent the past seven years as president of Hunter Animal Rescue. My media career began in radio journalism, TV Newsreading and now my own PR business promoting events like the Nelson Bay Blue Water Country Music Festival. I'm a Squadron Leader in the RAAF Reserves. I'm a fresh face for council. I want to give residents a voice and be a champion for infrastructure especially for the Fingal Bay Link Road. The infighting at meetings must end - live webcasts of council meetings will improve behaviour and empower residents.
- Jaimie Abbott, Independent