Ward: Kinglake.
Portfolio: Corporate and Customer Services.
What do you enjoy most about your role as Councillor?
Having the opportunity to convey the needs, desires and aspirations of our communities at the big table and advocating for their implementation.
What surprised you most about your role as Councillor?
I can only speak for the current Council but I have been very surprised by the level of collaboration, respect and teamwork amongst all of the Councillors and Council officers. I was expecting a group of strong willed individuals butting heads over personal agendas with a strong opposition to change and I am very surprised (and grateful) that that is not what we’ve got.
What do you love most about where you live?
The community spirit and the feeling of belonging.
What do you hope will be your legacy when your role as Councillor finishes?
I have been a very active participant in my community in various capacities over many years and also the recipient of overwhelming community support when it was needed after the loss of my family home in 2015. For that, I have a debt of gratitude that will never be fully repaid but by providing a voice, listening to, and advocating for the community to which I owe so much – I hope, in some small way this may go towards repaying some of that debt.
What books are you reading?
While I enjoy reading, current commitments don’t really allow much time for it. When I do, I enjoy the odd mystery novel or more commonly non-fiction personal development books.
What are you listening to?
Anything but rap, and preferably the older stuff from the 80s
How do you like to spend weekends?
With friends.
What is your idea of a holiday?
Experiencing and learning about other cultures by engaging with it as opposed to simply watching it from a distance. Sitting on a banana lounge, drinking cocktails and being waited on hand and foot at a 5 star resort is not my idea of a holiday. I much prefer to get away from the touristy areas and see and learn things from a local perspective.
Who inspires you?
I am inspired by anybody who works selflessly for the benefit of others. There are many famous examples who have achieved some fantastic results but I am particularly inspired by the ordinary, everyday people who work tirelessly within all of our communities. The ones who don’t seek recognition or pats on the back, and just get out there and do it.
Text & Images ©COPYRIGHT 2017 Kinglake Ranges News.
With Murrindindi Shire Council.
