Banyule City Council election candidates

I am independent and local, having lived, worked, and grown up in Banyule for over 30 years. Now, I am starting my family here in Watsonia. Throughout my career, I have worked as a primary school and university teacher, organisational leader, and now lead policy development and statewide reform with the Victorian Government. I have extensive experience serving on committees and boards, collaborating with state and federal governments, peak bodies, and the community to solve complex social issues. Currently, I volunteer on the board of Watsonia Neighbourhood House, mentor young adults, and am a member of Sustainable Macleod. If elected, I will prioritise local consultation and amplify the voices of our most vulnerable. I will expand council support for grassroots organisations serving our community, particularly those providing cost-of-living relief. I will leverage the North-East Link project to grow local business and ensure the responsible and equitable use of public funds. As the world changes, local communities become even more vital due to the specialised services and connections they offer. Banyule has limitless potential to become even more connected, inclusive, liveable, and sustainable. My commitment to you is to work every day to provide this for both present and future residents.

I am here to represent you! If re-elected I will continue to act in the best interest of every resident, the Banyule community, and not for any political agendas. I am not and never have been a member of any political party. I am passionate and dedicated to improvements in community spaces; safety, public toilets, parks, shopping centres and transport. I am also committed to low rates while keeping all the community services and initiatives we rely on, with strict budgeting of every dollar Council receives and spends. I have a plan to make Banyule debt free in three years easing pressure on future rate rises and the costs of living. My family have lived in Banyule for 17 years. My wife and I volunteer for several local groups and our three daughters attend school locally, are active in Scouts, basketball and together we enjoy the many parks, wildlife, facilities and services in Banyule. With my experience as a Councillor and a previous Mayor I am committed now more than ever and promise to keep working closely and listening to the community, to deliver what you need. A vote for Mark is a true independent vote for you.

Hi, I’m Will. I’m running for council with Victorian Socialists because I believe in a society that puts people before profit. I have lived in this area my whole life. I’m a student activist and campaign for social and environmental justice as well as workers’ rights. I believe that politicians at all levels of government are in the pockets of the rich, and have grown increasingly out of touch with the people they’re supposed to represent. In a wealthy society like Australia, everyone should have the chance to live a decent life. Today, the people at the top are seeing their wealth grow rapidly, while many at the bottom are being left behind. Councils have a responsibility to address this, and tackle urgent issues like the housing shortage and cost of living crisis. I got involved in politics through the 2019 student strikes for climate change. Recently, I’ve campaigned in solidarity with Palestine. I believe councils should be a place where social justice issues are raised and acted on. If elected in October, I’ll fight for our community and for a fairer Banyule.

Banyule has been a lovely and leafy place to live and raise my family. I am endorsed by the Greens to give voters a progressive choice. With my IT background, I’m focused on practical and sustainable solutions to improve our local community and environment. My priorities are: 1) Ensuring the North East Link project returns the tree canopy and biodiversity across the council area, 2) Creating better people flows between shops, train stations, bike paths and bus stops, 3) Reducing the amount of illegal rubbish dumping, 4) Keeping council rates low by avoiding large capital projects. Vote[1] David Scott, [2] Nicola Rooks, [3] Stephen Hird then all other candidates according to your preference.

My name is Stephen Hird and I’m running for Banyule city Council to represent Bakewell Ward. I believe the job of a councillor first and foremost is listening and then taking action. As your local voice I’ll ensure the priorities of Greensborough and Watsonia residents are reflected across council. Having proudly lived in Banyule for over 40 years, I am invested in our local area and its future. I owned a local business for 20 years and believe my experience through my working life has given me a deep understanding of the challenges facing our community. I’ve also been a proud volunteer in many local organisations over the years including school council president and building grounds organiser for Watsonia Heights Primary School. Coach , assistant coach and organiser for Auskick, Junior football and Junior basketball clubs. My time volunteering has shown me how special our community is , and how important it is we have a strong , active and local voice standing up for us at council. Our community faces significant challengers, including the ongoing North East Link construction, protecting our natural environment and ensuring that residents have the facilities and services we need to continue living well locally. Your local voice,Stephen.

I am running as an independent candidate and if elected, would be the first female Councillor to represent Bakewell Ward. Having lived in Banyule for over 40 years I know what a fantastic place it is to raise a family. I want to protect our valuable parklands and open spaces and ensure the things we love about the area are not lost in the face of housing pressures. I am committed to the environment and good urban planning. I will support suitable, well-designed development that provides more housing without compromising our trees and gardens. I support action on climate change, support for local businesses, sporting and community groups. I believe strongly in integrity and transparent decision making. I know the value of community through serving on local pre-school, primary and secondary school committees and supporting the many sporting clubs my children have been involved with. I understand the complexities of local government having previously worked for Banyule Council as a strategic planner. I am well qualified to make decisions on financial and planning matters with an Economics degree and a Master of Urban Planning & Environment. I’m passionate about local government and working for, and with, the local community.

Hello, I’m Alida McKern, your local Councillor. As a long-term Ivanhoe resident, professional landscape architect, urban planner, and mum, I love our community and I’m passionate about ensuring that it’s a place where everyone thrives. When I was elected, I committed to work hard for development sympathetic to neighbourhood character; protection of our trees, parks, walking & cycling paths; more voice for residents in Council decision-making, support for sporting clubs, stimulation of businesses, action on climate change, and rates restraint. I’m proud that with your help, I’ve delivered on these commitments. I’ve made things happen. If re-elected my priorities will be: 1) More community engagement; 2) Advocacy for sympathetic residential and heritage planning decisions; 3) Streets with more trees, parks and cycle paths; 4) Council funding for Darebin Parklands; 5) Responsible rates restraint to ease cost of living pressures; 6) Continued support for sporting clubs and Ivanhoe Sports Precinct Plan; 7) Safety and accessibility upgrades around Ivanhoe Station; 8) Enhancement of Ivanhoe Shopping Centre and a festival for Ivanhoe. I’ll continue to work tirelessly to make things happen. Contact: 0435 316 318, vote1@alidamckern.com, FB.com/CrAlidaMcKern, IG.com/Cr_alida_mckern/. Put Our Community First. Vote for a more liveable Ivanhoe. Vote [1] Alida McKern.

Dear Resident, my name is Kristina Murray, and I’m excited to introduce myself as your neighbour and Banyule Council candidate in Chelsworth Ward. I’ve lived in this beautiful community for 19 years, and I am passionate about the issues that matter to us. With a wide range of experience from academic skills advisor, involvement on a school board, Banyule Council committee and volunteer to being a children’s book author and business owner. Having grown up in Northern Victoria, I’ve always cared about the environment believing it’s essential to protect and preserve our natural surroundings as we navigate progress and development. I am running as a self-funded independent. As a prospective local councillor, focusing on the benefits for all, with particular interest in infrastructure, such as improved pedestrian access at Ivanhoe Station and the Odenwald Rd Bridge, upgrading sports facilities, maintaining public footpaths and cycleways, and protecting neighbourhood character. With a passion for sport, I will advocate strongly for the funding of female change rooms at the West Ivanhoe sporting club. Local council is about governance, transparency, and collaboration. To support me in this election please vote 1 Kristina Murray and number every box. Let’s work together for a better Banyule.

I am standing as a candidate for Banyule Council’s Chelsworth Ward, to be a voice for the community and ensure that every person is heard and listened to. Growing up in Banyule and attending the local primary school as a child, has given me more insight and understanding of this vibrant and wonderful community. As a parent I understand the difficulties of balancing life, the costs of living and other pressures associated with day to day life. I am a mother of five wonderful children, three boys and twin girls who attend Ivanhoe Primary School, where I have previously been an active representative in the school council. I was raised in Banyule and I chose to raise my family in Banyule because I have a deep affection and connection to this community. I am a Lawyer, currently working as a consumer advocate. I am passionate about improving access to legal rights and representation for people across our community. It would be an honor to have the opportunity to serve as a Council member for Chelsworth Ward to support the community.

My name is David Griffiths. I want to use my experience in technology and fitness to help create a stronger community in Banyule, providing valuable and cost-effective opportunities for healthy activities and small business. I have first hand knowledge of the challenges. I am married with two grown up children, and for the last 20 years I have owned a home in Eaglemont. In 2012 I started a small business providing IT services. I have also been actively involved in a range of community sports in Banyule, as a coach, administrator, parent and player. You can find out a bit more about me on @dc_griffiths on x.com.

Vote 1 Keith McLachlan – Back to Business. I am a Banyule Ratepayer and grew up in Griffin Ward. I know the Yarra, ridden bikes on the trails. My children attended kindergarden and local schools, and played sport in local courts and ovals. I shop locally, frequent the cafes, and visit the local gym. I know the community. An Accountant with Management and Board Experience in industries including brewing, building, signage and health, I have the range and depth of experience to be a productive and consultative Councilor and to represent around 130,000 people, administering 1,000 employees and billions in assets. Griffin Ward is unique. It needs to be preserved, improved, and maintained. Its massive health, commercial, and sporting enterprises deserve nurturing. Our community of renters, ratepayers, and business owners, many working locally, needs to be cared for and encouraged; our open spaces and built-environment need to be respected and improved. Council’s five-year plans and Budget are probably out-of-date already. Costs are rising faster than Council rates and charges. Ratepayers have cost-of-living pressures and lacks rate equity and fairness. I can focus Audit and Budget. My campaign is funded without political or incumbent councilor support. Keith McLachlan Contact: 0451 962765

It has been an honour to be elected as your councillor for two terms, in which I also served as Mayor. I’ve lived in our community for over 35 years and it’s where I’ve chosen to raise my family. I have a civil engineering background and ran a design business. As a long-term local and experienced councillor, I have worked hard to deliver for our community. But there’s more to do to ensure our community is a place where everyone can thrive. If re-elected, my priorities are: (1) Enhancing neighbourhood character and focusing new developments in activity centres, while also providing additional housing choices, (2) Maintaining and improving our tree-lined streets, parks and gardens, (3) High-quality, safe and inclusive public spaces and sports clubs, (4) Taking strong climate action and improving waste recovery, (5) Reducing debts and placing council in a good financial position, keeping rates at CPI, while also targeting assistance to those who need it most. I have been endorsed by the Greens again this election as I believe strongly in transparency. Please email petercastaldo01@gmail.com or call 0426266824 if you have any questions. Vote [1] Peter Castaldo for a strong community voice.

Hi, I’m Rory. I’m running for Victorian Socialists because I believe in a society that puts people before profit. I’ve lived in Watsonia North and Greensborough my whole life and am currently studying at La Trobe Uni. People in Grimshaw deserve a council which invests in quality facilities for the entire community. Politicians at all levels of government are out of touch and in the pockets of the rich. Councils have a responsibility to tackle issues like the housing shortage and cost of living crisis. I will fight for a progressive council which champions social justice. In May I participated in the Gaza solidarity camp at La Trobe, protesting my university’s connection to the genocide in Palestine. I’ve also been involved in organising climate activism, protests for refugees, LGBTI rights and anti-fascist activism. If elected, I’ll fight for our community and for the better world that we need and deserve.

Thank you for the privilege to serve as your local Councillor. Together we are achieving good outcomes for our community: 1) We are delivering the Watsonia town square which includes open space, a complete bike path to the train station and new toilets for Watsonia. 2) We delivered a new pavilion, oval and cricket nets at Binnak Park with State Government. 3) We delivered a substantial upgrade of the Bundoora Community Hall. 4) We have enhanced Yulong Reserve. If re-elected, lets aim to upgrade Telfer Reserve, Warrawee Reserve and establish recreational facilities at Edmund Rice Parade Reserve. 5) We renewed the Redmond Court Wetland through desilting, weeding, fencing, decking and seating. Beyond local projects, we support residents facing financial hardship by providing a waiver of up to $550 on Council rates. We provide jobs for young people facing employment barriers – we have delivered over 150 jobs through our inclusive jobs program. There is more to do. I seek your support to continue our work together as we improve our community. I will draw on my experience as a Finance Director to deliver sound financial management of Council services and infrastructure while working to minimise rate increases for residents and ratepayers.

I’m a university student and hospitality team leader, and I’ve lived in our wonderful community for most of my life. While everyone struggles with the cost-of-living and housing crises, we need our council to do more for us. If I’m elected as your Greens councillor, I’ll: [1] advocate for more public and genuinely affordable housing; [2] advocate for expanding essential services to bring down your costs, such as maternal health, community childcare and recreation like sporting facilities and playgrounds; [3] support measures to bring down your energy costs and take climate action through solar bulk-buying, including for renters, support households to get off gas, and roll out public electric vehicle charging stations; [4] support investment in safe walking and cycling infrastructure like separated bike lanes and safer pedestrian crossings; and [5] expand our green spaces, and protect our bushland and established trees. You can find more information at http://greens.org.au/sam-boatwright or reach out at sam.boatwright@vic.greens.org.au. Put our community first, vote [1] Sam Boatwright.

Our community is always growing and evolving with new challenges every day, that is why Banyule needs people on its council with new ideas and a fresh perspective. Shaping Banyule together, starts with transparency and openness from the council representing us. That is why I am committed to building relationships within our community, listening to our residents and acting with integrity on your behalf. Some of the areas that I would like to advocate for are affordable cost of living, customer service, sustainability, community amenities, Banyule theatre and traffic management. I am deeply invested in building a community for current and future generations. I am not associated with any political party and have always acted with integrity and honesty. I will use my independence and values to advocate for positive outcomes for the greater Banyule community. Above all, I have the drive and passion to work hard to make Banyule an even better place to live for everyone. To know more you can visit www.rajbhatia.com.au or call me on 0401939123.

I am running as an independent candidate for local council because I believe in representing the community's true needs without party constraints. My goals are simple “Rates, roads, rubbish”. Rates: Keep rate rises minimal or non-existent, ensuring financial relief for residents. Rubbish Management: I advocate for efficient, cost-effective waste management to keep our environment clean. Infrastructure: I will prioritize the maintenance and improvement of our roads and footpaths, ensuring safe and accessible transport for all. Safety: Enhancing community safety through better street lighting, increased police presence, and community programs is paramount. Planning and Development: I am committed to thoughtful urban planning. While development is necessary, it must be sustainable and considerate of existing community structures. Overdevelopment will be limited to preserve our local character and prevent strain on resources. Construction: I will ensure that new construction projects benefit the community, are built to high standards, and respect local heritage and environment. By focusing on these key areas, I aim to foster a community that is safe, sustainable, and financially stable, ensuring that Banyule remains a great place to live for everyone.

I am a retired Senior Business Consultant and have lived in Banyule for the past 46 years. I have been on my children’s School Council, President of the Banyule Hawks Basketball Club and a Committee member of my local tennis club for 28 years, the last 5 years as Treasurer. My tertiary qualifications in science, education, computing, and finance allowed me to professionally consult across transport planning, education, electricity, telecommunications, funds management and taxation. I have the business breath and experience to be an effective Councillor. My focus would be to ensure Council services are delivered economically, promptly, and sustainably. My goals are: (i) to have a continually updated strategic vision, (ii) fiscal accountability and efficient spending, (iii) harmonious community and business development, (iv) community, family and maternal health improving and (v) visionary planning to deliver a vibrant, healthy, and environmentally sustainable community. I have the business skills, ethics, and time to deliver on these goals. If you want a competent, committed, and effective Councillor, then I ask you to vote 1 against my name. Together we can build a better future for your family and everyone in Hawdon and across Banyule. Vote 1 Kearney, Chris Mob: 0466 012 077 Email: Hawdon2024@gmail.com

Residents of Hawdon! I’m Matt Wood, your independent candidate in the Banyule City Council elections. Over the 20 years of calling Banyule my home, I have developed deep connections with the community. Our children attend the local schools and l have run my small business here for the past decade. I am also actively involved in local sporting clubs. My professional experience includes corporate business administration, strategic planning and financial control. If elected, I’ll provide strong leadership and good governance, focusing on initiatives to enhance our quality of life. My priorities include: 1. Enhancing Recreational Spaces: Upgrading local facilities and maximising open spaces to foster a healthy community with more recreational opportunities. 2. Advocating for local community benefits from Northeast Link: Ensuring the project benefits are long lasting and align with the interests of our community. 3. Improving Accessibility to the Yarra River: Connectivity to this valuable natural resource is needed through providing links to and over the river 4. Repurposing the Old Banyule Theatre Site: Transforming it into a community facility. 5. Prioritising response to Climate Change: Championing sustainable practices and community engagement. Together we can create a vibrant community. Vote [1] for Matt Wood for a better Banyule!

I've lived in Banyule my entire adult life, with my supportive husband, many nieces, nephews, godchildren, and a menagerie of rescued animals. I’m passionate about people, animals, nature and the environment and conservation. I’ll ensure transparent, responsible, and genuine sustainable development and procurement while maintaining the character of the area. I’m dedicated to ensuring Banyule is a great place to live and work. I’ve run parts of my businesses out of Banyule for over 10 years. I have a strong business background working in retail and food industries, including corporate, and I obtained a MBA from Swinburne University in 2017. I’ve been actively interacting with Banyule for at least 15 years, and I’ll advocate for transparency in council finances, reducing avoidable expenditures, and prevent unnecessary rate rises. I'll ensure the council prioritises local issues, supports small businesses over big conglomerates, and genuinely consult on matters directly impacting residents. I’ll support all demographics; I'll not discriminate against any residents or visitors to Banyule; we are one community. I’ll safeguard and increase all residents’ employment and service opportunities. Family and friends are important to me, and I want to ensure everyone can celebrate their heritage respectfully with those they love. https://melissamurphywebster.com.au/ 0415636947

My name is Paul Brown. I have been a resident of banyule for over 50 years. I am passionate about green spaces, kids and sport and our local small businesses. I have been involved in sport within banyule for 40 years, have been a small business owner and both my kids have been educated at local Banyule schools. Professionaly i have 30 years experience in risk and governance and plan to bring transparency and simplicity to interacting with council at a individual and interest group level. i am an independant who believes that council is not a politicaly motivated and all decisions should be for the good of the Ibbot ward and Banyule more broadly. Every day issues should be met with common sense approach and with an eye to the future.

I’m a proud Ibbott local of 17 years, working and volunteering in the community, walking in the dog friendly Rosanna parklands, and shopping in Macleod & Rosanna. If elected, I would be a strong voice for public transparency and collaboration, and being 100% independent, I would stand up against political influences that are not in our best interests. My background as a finance manager for large financial investment organisations, will help in steering a responsible council budget, to support local businesses to thrive whilst advocating for cost of living measures. As a community advocate for many years, I have fought to retain valued public land, save irreplaceable trees and prevent loss of wildlife corridors, as well as providing a community voice when council failed to properly engage us on important issues. If elected, I will work hard for Ibbott Ward, to protect what’s important and promote respectful development, welcoming new neighbours as we grow. Together, we can complete the YMCA Macleod masterplan, the Rosanna Parklands masterplan and look forward to a new Rosanna Library and Macleod Pavillion. Vote 1 – Alicia Curry - Local & Independent

Hi, I’m Marty. I’m running for council for the Victorian Socialists because building a better and fairer society begins at the local level. Victorian Socialists stand with the workers and the oppressed. We fight for renters, not landlords; we want more spending on health and welfare, not on military toys like $400 billion in useless submarines; we want a living wage for all and we defend the right to strike. I’m a Banyule local, a writer, an artist, and a member of the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance. Since the mid-1970s, I’ve been involved in anti-nuclear campaigns, fighting racism and for LGBTQI+ rights, I stand in solidarity with our First Nations people, and more recently I have been campaigning against the genocide of Palestine. Politicians at all levels are in the pockets of the rich. People at the top see their wealth grow rapidly, while many at the bottom are left behind. Councils are responsible for tackling the housing shortage and the cost-of-living crisis and must act now on issues such as climate change and social justice. If elected, I’ll fight for our community, for my neighbours, and for a better world. The world we need and deserve.

I’m a local mum and professional working for a charity, committed to a council that cares for all residents, protects our environment, and acts with integrity. In these tough economic times, strengthening council services is vital. If elected as your councillor, I’ll prioritise child and maternal health, youth and senior services, and expand inclusive employment options. Our community is wonderful, and I’ll work every day to make it even better. I’ll ensure we build a top-notch library in Rosanna, improve its main street with better pedestrian crossings and more greenery, and support local traders by hosting more community events in places like Macleod Park. Our community is fortunate to have significant parks, gardens, and native wildlife. I’ll work to protect our biodiversity by fully implementing the Urban Forest Strategy, delivering the Rosanna Parklands Master Plan, and supporting local climate action. If you want a thriving, caring, and greener Banyule, vote 1 Nina Crawley. You can find out more at greens.org.au/nina-crawley or reach out at nina.crawley@vic.greens.org.au or 0494179050. Put our community first, vote [1] Nina Crawley.

I am a local. I am 100% independent. I seek your support to be a strong, committed and passionate advocate for our community. My decision to stand stems from having led a successful campaign to retain Banyule’s 13,000 dogs’ off-lead access to many shared public spaces while promoting greater dog owner responsibility. Parts of Olympia need revitalising. Broken footpaths, illegal dumping, derelict properties must be addressed. Practical solutions are also needed for local parking and traffic issues. A thriving, inclusive and diverse Olympia needs improved social and community infrastructure and enhanced green spaces. I will focus on issues such as Olympia’s under-resourced health and social programs, initiatives to ease the cost of living such as extending Banyule’s Rate Financial Hardship policy to renters and funding the Darebin Creek Management Committee. More broadly, we must ensure planning principles address the pressures of increasing housing density. We need permanent homes for our not-for-profits such as BANSIC and Olympic Neighbourhood House, action on the redevelopment of the Olympic Leisure Centre and rejuvenation of the Bell Street Mall. I proudly live in West Heidelberg. Through my professional and research background I believe I have the knowledge and skills to represent Olympia ward. Contact: 0480739173.

My name is Craig Langdon and I am standing as an Independent with Labor values. I have lived, worked and volunteered in the Olympia Ward for over 40 years. I was the Labor Member for Ivanhoe from 1996 to 2010. Currently I am the Chair of 3081 Angels and a volunteer driver for over 6 years delivering much needed assistance to local familes of young children in need. Committee Member of Lions House (Accommodation for relatives of patients at the Mercy & Austin Hospitals). Over the last four years I believe Olympia Ward has been ignored by Council. Only projects I commenced as Councillor (2011-2020) seem to have been completed and many cancelled. Every where I go in the area I have been repeatedly asked to stand for Olympia Ward again. Time and time again I was advised the Councillor didn’t respond to phone calls or emails. I pledge to always respond within 48 hours. Olympia Ward needs a skilled community minded Councillor willing to work and fight for the area. A councillor with the skills to get things done. I commit myself to represent the area with honesty and a willingness to get the right results.

My name is Abdirizak Mohamed. I was born in Somalia and tertiary educated in Pakistan, graduating B. Commerce. I arrived in Melbourne from war-torn Somalia in 1993 and successfully sought refugee asylum. In 1996 I became a proud Australian citizen. My three Australian-born children were tertiary-educated in Melbourne and live with me and my wife. They are successfully and happily working in professional vocations. During the 1993-94 Australian recession I worked at a knitting factory for two years. I then started up a profitable public transport business. In 2007 I sold this business and started chilled lamb carcass exporting to Dubai. Widely respected and well-known community leader in Heidelberg West, I currently serve as Honorary President of Somali Voice Victoria Incorporated. I contend that I am uniquely experienced and capable of successfully representing all Olympia Ward residents. I will actively seek your input and listen to the broader Olympia community. I will insist that Council focuses on its core local government responsibilities and provide increased services to those in genuine need. I will sensibly oppose future high-rise development in 3081. I will carefully review Council revenue forecasts and expenses. I am not a member of any political party.

I am a proud resident of West Heidelberg along with my husband and baby girl. I am passionate about contributing to my local community through my work in the Health Promotion team at Banyule Community Health. I also have a wealth of experience in the sustainability sector. I will advocate for a safe, connected and equitable 3081 with thriving local businesses and a healthy natural environment. Here’s why I’m running and what I stand for 1. Equity for Olympia; A fair share in Banyule’s resources. 2. Stronger Somali and Aboriginal voices in local policy. 3. Olympic Village Leisure Centre revamp (children's pool, hydrotherapy). 4. Improve Olympic Village Shopping areas and The Mall. 5. Promote higher quality new builds and greater social housing liveability. 6. Increase renewable energy investment in Olympia Ward. 7. More support for local food banks and local growers. 8. Support call for ceasefire in Gaza. 9. Local actions for a safe climate.

Hello, neighbors and friends of Olympia Ward. My name is Amina Liban, and for the past 24 years, Heidelberg has been my cherished home. I’ve built my life here as a social worker, community volunteer, sister, wife, and, most importantly, as someone who cares deeply about our community's future. In my work as a social worker, I’ve seen firsthand the power of listening, supporting one another, and taking real action to create meaningful change. My passion has always been to uplift and empower the people around me, ensuring that everyone—no matter their background—has the opportunity to thrive. I believe in a Heidelberg where our voices are truly heard, where diversity is celebrated, and where every member of our community feels valued. That’s why I’m running for council. Together, we can build on what we love about this place and address the issues that matter most to you: better services, stronger connections, and more opportunities for all. I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and work hard for you. Let’s shape a future where everyone in Olympia Ward feels proud and empowered. I’m grateful for your trust and support.

Hi, I’m Lucas. As a socialist, I believe the fight for a better, fairer society begins locally. I’ve lived in Olympia for most of my life, and I’ve seen how our diverse community is often neglected, lacking the infrastructure and support we need—like a renovated Olympic Leisure Centre or a permanent home for Olympic Neighbourhood House. Essential services are missing, made worse by overdevelopment, inappropriate council rezoning, the selling of public land and assets (like the Rosanna library and the Water Tank site), and the outsourcing of council jobs. Right now, working-class people in Olympia don’t have anyone on the council willing to listen and stick up for them, especially the many young renters in the area like myself. I’ve been involved in community organising for over fifteen years. If elected, I’ll fight to make Banyule Council an accountable, transparent, progressive council that that delivers for the community and puts people before profits.

#Vote 1 Wendy Palliser Standing for Olympia Ward. I have been a resident and business owner in Banyule for more than 20 years and have seen many changes in this time. This election is an important election for the direction in which Banyule will go. I am passionate about preserving the character of Banyule and believe Banyule is under threat of over development to which we must provide and preserve infrastructure such as parks, reserves, schools community centres and more to support any increase. It is crucial these infrastructure's do not disappear with development and are maintained into the future for the livability and the beautiful character that is Banyule. I can be contacted for more information Mobile 0407532044 email palliser@live.com.au

I’m a local landscaper and garden designer, small business owner and dad. I’m committed to our wonderful community, holding a number of volunteer roles including as a founding member of the Bellfield Community Garden, and a member of the Ivanhoe Primary School and Thornbury High School Councils and the Banyule Urban Food Strategy and Implementation Group. While many of us are struggling with the cost of living crisis, council can play an important role in tackling the cost of living. If I’m elected as your councillor, I’ll: advocate for property developers to build sustainable, public and affordable housing in new developments; and take climate action through solar bulk-buying; look to have Bell Street Mall neon sign restored; push for a permanent library in 3081; bolster funding for local social and welfare services, like BANSIC (Banyule Support and Information Centre) and Olympic Neighbourhood House; and expand our green spaces, improve bicycle and pedestrian routes, and protect our bushland and established trees. For a thriving community, vote 1 Paul Morland. You can find out more at http://greens.org.au/paul-morland or reach out at paul.morland@vic.greens.org.au. Put our community first, vote [1] Paul Morland.

My name is Lauren Sandars, I’m asking for your vote in Sherbourne Ward. I’m a lifelong local and I now raise my young family here in Banyule. I know first-hand the challenges of running a small business, juggling a mortgage, and navigating the rising cost of living. I understand the pressures families are facing, because I’m facing them too. I believe that essential services (roads, rates, rubbish) should be Council’s top priority. I also share the frustrations many of you have about the state of our footpaths, which pose real risks for parents with prams, the elderly and residents with disabilities. We deserve better. I’m proud to call Banyule home, and we’re lucky to have wonderful open spaces, parks, and nature reserves. I believe our vibrant community organisations and sporting clubs are the heart of what makes our area so special. As a physiotherapist, I advocate for my patients every day, working to solve their problems and improve their quality of life. It would be my privilege to bring that same commitment to representing you as your Councillor. Vote 1 for Lauren Sandars (remember to number every other box) together, we can build a better future for Sherbourne Ward.

My name is Alison Champion. I'm running for re-election in Sherbourne Ward to continue supporting ongoing community requests for significant improvements. Since 2016, I have loved collaborating with you to find solutions, achieve results inspiring us to live within a sustainable, cooperative, high-functioning environment. As a Montmorency resident of 23 years, actively involved in my sons' education at Panorama Heights, Montmorency South 2007-2018, coordinating safer pedestrian access and parking facilities around Montmorency South 2009-2023, participating in local business since 2013, and well-connected through many local schools, clubs and business networks, I am personally, economically, socially invested in Sherbourne and Banyule. Experienced in the Hospitality, Vocational Education and Real Estate industries since 1991, I have acquired extensive skills to engage people, encourage participation, provide appropriate advice, listen to residents, create practical, logical solutions and make decisions leading to better outcomes for all who benefit. As an Independent, I am open-minded without political agenda or party alignment. I will continue to advocate for the variety of issues which are important in our community: safety, health, accessibility, sustainability and functionality. I will continue to encourage ideas, conversation, connection, collaboration and action. I will continue to support my community's needs as we grow.

You can count on me to provide community-focused results for Sherbourne. I have lived in Montmorency for 24 years and I have brought up my children here. I love the community, the quality of our environment, rivers, parks and wildlife and I don’t want that to change. Sherbourne is growing and I'm dedicated to balancing the impact of new development. We must manage the impact of increased traffic and make our streets safer for travel by car, bike and on foot. I have worked on community campaigns and I support diversity, inclusion, equality and fairness, and I will ensure that all our voices are heard and supported. I love footy, cricket, and cycling and understand what it will take to ensure that all our local clubs thrive. I am well-qualified to work for these goals on your behalf. I have worked in public administration for 30 years, specialising in budgeting, strategic planning, service planning and performance reporting. I know what good governance looks like and I know how to lead. I will work for all, especially for families and the vulnerable. I will turn up, listen, and be a strong voice for Sherbourne. See more about me at: ianrobertson.au

I’m a scientist, human rights advocate and local mum, and I love living and raising my family in our wonderful community. But we’re all struggling with the cost-of-living, rental/housing and climate crises – we need our council to do more for our community. If elected as your Green's councillor, I’ll prioritise: [1] ensuring responsible global citizenship is applied at a local level. This includes advocating locally and at a state and federal level to: consistently prioritise human rights, and oppose human rights abuses and war crimes across the globe; remove weapon’s parts manufacturing from our communities; and update procurement and investment policies to align with ethical standards; [2] expanding essential services that will alleviate cost-of-living pressures, such as maternal health, community childcare, libraries and recreation like sporting facilities and playgrounds; [3] investing in safe walking and cycling infrastructure like separated bike lanes and safer pedestrian crossings; [4] more frequent and reliable public transport; and [5] expanding our parks and green spaces, supporting wildlife and biodiversity, and protecting our established trees. You can find more information at http://greens.org.au/greta-gillies or reach out at greta.gillies@vic.greens.org.au. Put our community first by voting [1] Greta Gillies. Vote [2] Michelle Giovas.

In 2023, it was my privilege to be Banyule’s Citizen of the Year, awarded for my voluntary work on many community and government committees and for my successful advocacy for and across Banyule. This honour also comes off the back of the great work done by Montmorency based community and environmental groups of which I’m a part. I hope I made them proud and I continually acknowledge their important work for our community. I care deeply about all of Sherbourne Ward – Briar Hill, Lower Plenty and Montmorency. I will use my experience in environmental and risk management, compliance and governance to protect and enhance our much loved neighbourhood character and community assets whilst promoting healthy vibrant local centres and strengthened social connections. I stand for Accountability: for responsible, transparent and well evaluated Council decisions. Advocacy: for better planning, transport options and infrastructure while protecting our valued green spaces and trees. Action: for practical, innovative solutions from your feedback and ideas. Vote 1 Michelle Giovas, triple A candidate for Accountability, Advocacy and Action. I will serve our community with skill and unmatched passion to ensure that your voice is heard for stronger, fairer decisions and positive action at Council. .