Saturday is polling day in the Port Stephens Council elections. We asked the lead candidates from Central Ward to explain what they would bring to council, to help voters reach determine how they would vote.
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Editor’s note: Central Ward candidate Luis Gomez-Fort had not responded at the time of publication.
I am standing as an independent candidate for Central Ward. I live and work in Anna Bay. I am a mother, business owner and employer. I believe we need a new council to focus on the future of Port Stephens and make it an even better place to live, work and raise our children. As an elected Councillor I will listen to the community and act to ensure they are heard. Port Stephens needs a new, energetic, honest and transparent council. I will work with our community and strive to restore confidence in our council.
- Sarah Smith, Independent
I am supporting Steve Tucker’s bid* because he is a steady hand and considers all points of view. He has some big ideas which are great but doesn’t forget the important things for residents – their parks, footpaths, roads and their rubbish. He has a history of achievement on council and has plans for the future. I am very hopeful Steve can win the mayor’s job and I will be a hard worker for Central Ward if I get onto council. Aside from the mid-2000s when took me regional NSW and Afghanistan with the UN, I have lived in Port Stephens since I was 9. *The Tucker team chose to introduce Ben Niland as Steve Tucker's number two.
- Ben Niland, Independent
My husband Andrew and I have two sons and have lived in Medowie for 18 years. I am president of the P&C at Wirreanda School, and San Clemente. The last 17 years I have worked as a registered nurse in the Port Stephens LGA and have engaged with the community in this role. I am a proud member of the Tilligerry Football Club, and honorary and founding member of Tilli Men’s Shed, and of the Community Wellbeing Group. My plans for Central Ward include a Medowie bus interchange, Tanilba Bay Public School bus drop off/pickup area and more support for Red Zone residents.
- Jennifer Battrick, Independent
I am your current deputy mayor, Central Ward councillor, and a trusted and dedicated champion for our community. I have served for many years in the RAAF and I am a loyal supporter for the men and women who still serve us. I am a strong advocate for the people of Port Stephens and in particular those in the Central Ward. I love sports, and I have worked tirelessly to see our community facilities improved. I am a driver of innovation and improvement, supporting our council returning its finances back to a positive. I fought hard to prevent the merger, and continue to fight for better roads, paths and playgrounds.
- Chris Doohan, Independent
I’m a father and husband from Medowie, and have lived, worked and brought up my family in our local area for most of my life. I’m standing as a councillor as I believe the current council has neglected and ignored local communities. I know the needs of our community and I am always open and accessible; people can always contact me with issues, concerns or ideas, and I will give them a fair hearing. Medowie and the Tilligerry Peninsula are growing areas with huge potential, and while attempts have been made to plan for their futures, all have fallen short. I want to bring long-term, strategic planning to our towns.
- Des Maslen, Country Labor