Cardinia Shire Council election candidates

As a mother of two children attending local schools, a long-time resident of over 14 years, and a research scientist with more than 25 years of experience in health research, I am deeply committed to our community's wellbeing and growth. My candidacy for local council stems from a passion for making our shire a better place to live, work, and raise a family. I recognise the importance of well-maintained roads, footpaths, and public transport, especially in the rural and remote parts of our shire. Safe and reliable infrastructure is essential for connecting our communities and supporting our local economy. I also understand the needs of working parents and the challenges we face in accessing adequate childcare and out-of-school care. That’s why I will prioritise improving these services, ensuring all families find the support they need. I am committed to advocating for more recreational facilities, especially for children, so that everyone in our shire can enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle. As your councillor, I will be a strong voice for transparent, evidence-based decision-making. I believe in open communication and will ensure that the community’s needs are always front and centre in council discussions. Together, we can make our community thrive.

Having spent my entire life living in Cardinia Shire, I am passionate about our community. As a long-term, current serving police officer and a father of three young children, I have an active interest in contributing to our community and ensuring that Beacon Hills Ward is a great, safe place to live and raise a family. During my time on council, I have established strong relationships with many community groups and residents, listened to their needs and advocated for a range of positive outcomes. If re-elected, I will continue to advocate for ongoing improvements to our unsealed roads and drainage, sealing of strategic connector roads along with improved path networks. I will prioritise emergency management and bush fire readiness and provide support for environmental groups and programs. Improvements to sporting facilities as well as playground upgrades and ensuring access and inclusion for all abilities will remain a priority. I will continue to be a strong advocate for responsible financial management and appropriate asset renewal. As an independent candidate, I am committed to open, transparent local government and I will represent you with dedication and enthusiasm. I will ensure that all residents are given a strong voice. I seek your support.

Local. Passionate. Community driven. A vote for Alanna Pomeroy means a key focus on having representation on the things that matter most to you. I’m a proud local, and my children are the sixth generation of Scanlon’s to call this region home. Committed to making a difference for our community, I bring strong decision-making and communication skills to Council, alongside governance qualifications and experience in CEO, board and management roles. An active volunteer, I’ve served on the Pakenham Racing Club and local school board as well as various fundraising committees. As our region grows, we need thoughtful planning, responsible spending, and strong decision-making to build safe, vibrant, active and connected communities with the services and infrastructure you need to thrive. I will champion this, alongside a strong focus on safer roads, local jobs and greater investment in our region. Together, we can create a brighter future for our region. As your independent representative, I will bring a strong, clear voice for Bunyip Ward. Vote 1 Alanna Pomeroy.

The opportunity to represent the Bunyip ward is something I would embrace with passion and commitment. Running as an independent, I am an engaging individual who is always willing to discuss local issues. The volunteers l am associated with are the heart of the community and have a greater understanding of what is required. If elected, I look forward to meeting residents and community organisations to listen, advocate and assist. As a Nar Nar Goon resident, the opportunity to establish a young family in a rural township was an easy decision. I have been self-employed for the last 20 years in landscaping and horticulture. Volunteering is a part of our family and are very fortunate to continue participating with dedicated community members. From experience, dealing with Council and Government agencies can be an overwhelming and frustrating proposition. My approach is open and honest, setting a clear agenda with the expectation of positive outcomes. My focus will be on providing the conduit for local issues to Council, so they can be acted upon and a resolution found. Bunyip ward offers a range of established and newly constructed urban environments, rural settlements, lifestyle blocks and farmland that should be celebrated and enhanced.

I'm the only councillor to have voted against excessive rate rises over the last 16 years. I'll only vote for low rate increases. I've raised my family locally over 26 years. I'm extremely aware of the cost of living rises and mortgage expense. A vote for me will also help renters from having landlords increase weekly rent excessively and home owners from high rate increases. I support local businesses and employment as a small business owner over 14 years. I've lived and worked in Pakenham for 32 years and I've spoken to over 40,000 residents in the last 16 years. I've attended 442 of 452 council meetings. My priorities are: To vote for lowest rate increases, to support community safety in our homes and streets, delivery of train crossing removals, widen Monash freeway and on/off ramps at McGregor Road, reducing debt, improve pet services, support the local arts, improve bus services, again support a Kmart/Spotlight/Cinema coming to Pakenham, support youth services, address senior/mature needs, maintain and improve parks/walkways/gardens. Support local sporting clubs delivered new athletics track, cultural groups and local events. I won't travel overseas at your expense. I'll work hard and passionately. Vote 1 Collin Ross 'Your strong voice'.

As a proud multicultural woman, I seek your support in the upcoming Cardinia Shire Elections. I have been a resident of Pakenham since 2017 and seen the area’s recent developments and the resilience of the community. My journey has been shaped by diverse Cultures and it has instilled a deep sense of appreciation for the community. I am committed to ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. Raising my young family in Pakenham and a professional background in Health and Community Engagement has equipped me with skills necessary to address the needs of our residents. I have dedicated my career to empowering marginalised voices and improving community well-being. With your support, I endeavour to 1. To support additional pathways for active and healthy lifestyle 2. Improve community safety and cultural safety 3. Increase awareness and improve access to Mental health services 4. Support local businesses and generate employment opportunities 5. Preserve our beautiful environment and support in creating sustainable recreational facilities. I promise that Central Ward residents have a strong voice in the council and advocate for transparency in local government.

My name is Shoheli Sunjda, and I have proudly called Cardinia home for over 12 years. As a local business owner and a mother of two boys, I am passionate about helping our community maintain a high quality of life, especially on a limited budget. Throughout my 12 years of volunteering and community involvement, many of you have shared your concerns about needing a council that truly listens and acts on the community's interests. Please give me a chance to be your advocate & ensure that our council operates with transparency, accountability, and focus on the issues that matter most to us, such as: Fair Spending of Rates. Support for Community Sports, Arts, and Recreation. Championing Local Businesses. Maintaining Community Assets. I bring a wealth of experience from various leadership roles, including serving as president, vice-president, and treasurer of multiple community houses and organizations. My involvement with the Pakenham Rotary Club and Men’s Shed has further deepened my commitment to community service. Additionally, my experience working in government offices, running a business, and currently serving as a real estate agent has equipped me with the skills needed to negotiate, delegate, and lead effectively. Vote 1 Shoheli Sunjda. Your community advocate.

If elected as your Independent Councillor I will listen to you and use my skills to make good decisions and get things done. I was proud to be awarded Cardinia Shire’s 2024 Citizen of the Year. Together with my husband Dave we enjoy raising our young family in Pakenham. I advocate quality and ‘value for money’ services and more funding for community groups and local business support. We need quality roads, community infrastructure for our growing population and support for seniors, young people and families to live well. In Henty Ward I’ll champion Council to complete works on the Youth Hub, McGregor Road duplication, PB Ronald Reserve Masterplan and Pakenham Town Centre revitalisation. Community volunteering is important to me. Over the last two decades I’ve been involved as: President Pakenham & District Toy Library, Paddy’s Kitchen volunteer, Church youth leader, U3A tutor, Vice president of a School Council and Kindergarten committee. I successfully advocated for needed paths and crossings. I have worked as a journalist, social planner, researcher and communications adviser; and supported my family business. I completed women’s leadership and governance training, preparing for a fresh approach as your Councillor. Henty at Heart! Vote 1 Liz Roberts, www.lizroberts.com.au 0437 481 061

I’m Cecilia Rabecca Mphande and running for a fairer Henty to bring fresh perspectives, proven dedication to our community. With a strong foundation in public service—following the footsteps of my father, who served as Malawi's Health Minister—and over a decade of active leadership in Pakenham, I know how to make positive impact. As Co-founder and Director of AfriAus iLEAC, I’ve united 29 organizations to support the most vulnerable in Cardinia Shire and beyond. My roles on the Victorian Multicultural Commission Regional Advisory Council and Cardinia Shire CALD Advisory Group have equipped me to advocate for fair resource distribution and community inclusion. Cardinia Council is increasingly becoming multicultural. I urge Henty voters to consider inclusive representation. With 37 years of teaching experience, I understand the importance of youth engagement and educational investment. My personal experiences with family violence have driven me to develop groundbreaking programs: Changing Narrative: GirlForce and CWIRE, aimed at preventing violence, enhancing economic security. If elected, my priorities include: to boost local economic growth, foster community integration, improve gender equality and family violence support, and enhance infrastructure and services, including mental health care. Together, we can build a more inclusive, thriving community. Vote 1 for Cecilia Rabecca Mphande.

Lived in Pakenham 45 years mother of three they all attended local schools I have a mortgage run small local business I know that times are really tough I feel it I get it I was elected in 2016 I bring with me a wealth of knowledge and experience having a clear understanding of the importance of good high quality services & supporting future business including small businesses doing it tough needing to be given a fair go and in time creating employment important retaining the historical side of my community I want Cardinia Shire residents to be positive about the future as a Councillor since 2016 if re-elected as an independent Councillor I will listen to your needs & concerns advocating on your behalf working hard towards achieving the best results in crime prevention creating a safer community infrastructure & services roads footpaths keeping rates affordable by rate capping creating more accessible services for mental health disabilities drug & alcohol services senior friendly groups youth & new small & businesses leading to more employment in creating equality for all within my shire - being your voice to be heard - vote 1 Carol Ryan carolaryan53@gmail.com Authorised by Carol Ryan

Hi, I’m Stephanie. I’m running as a Victorian Socialists candidate because I want to see a council that fights to improve our lives – by working to rein in skyrocketing rents, expanding access to quality council facilities, and ensuring that it is communities and not developers who decide what our neighbourhoods look like. In a wealthy society like Australia, everyone should have the chance to live a decent life. Today, those at the top see their wealth grow rapidly, while many at the bottom are left behind. Councils have a responsibility to tackle urgent issues like the cost of living crisis. I’m a Pakenham resident and have been a socialist activist for 12 years. As a member of the Public Housing Defence Network, I helped organise resistance to the government’s public housing privatisation plans. I’ve also been involved in campaigns against racism, for action on climate change, Palestine solidarity and LGBTIQA+ rights.

I'm an Independent candidate, who will offer strong, compassionate, common sense leadership. I'm committed to respectfully serving our community and listening to you. My family and I proudly call Officer home, and as a mum, I understand the importance of creating a safe, vibrant, supportive and prosperous environment for everyone. Professionally, I've worked in management, disability and aged care support. My volunteering highlights my dedication to community service. I actively champion inclusivity through founding and facilitating creative community events in Cardinia, being in local groups for multiculturalism, women's participation in sports, local cultural festivals and disability support, contributing to a more connected, equitable and vibrant community. My tertiary studies in business, the arts, community engagement and cultural development prepare me to make a meaningful impact. Vote for me because the potholes are Potter’s priority, I'll advocate for local economic growth and business development strategies to boost our town center, infrastructure improvements that focus on safety, support initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles, enhance mental wellness and inclusive social welfare programs and advocate for clear communication, listening and transparency from council. Let’s work together to shape Officer’s thriving future. I invite you to stay in touch via my facebook. https://www.facebook.com/CardiniaSJP

As a resident of Cardinia for well over ten years, and a husband and father, I am running for the Officer Ward to bring strong, intelligent and conservative representation back to our community. As a businessman, I get measured on producing desirable outcomes. I understand that hard working families want to see more of their hard-earned money back in their pockets, back in their community and invested in public safety initiatives and quality infrastructure. Critical thinking, courage to challenge political correctness and the ability to debate important issues, is central to my campaign. My mission is two-fold - make Cardinia a desirable place to live and work, and to preserve your rights, promote your values and protect your lifestyle. My priorities are to work on initiatives that reduce crime, result in economic / business growth and improve infrastructure, road capacity and traffic flow. I will listen to the needs of active community members, retirees and small businesses, so their concerns are properly addressed at the council level. I believe in restoring common sense, traditional values and accountability. Vote 1 for Ron Malhotra - your candidate who has the backbone to stand for your rights. Visit https://www.facebook.com/ronmalhotraforofficer or email officerward@ronmalhotra.com

I am standing in Ranges ward Council election to bring fresh perspectives and a new energy. I have worked in Hospital Pathology for 50 years. I believe my experience in management and community involvement has equipped me with the skills and aptitude necessary to serve effectively as a Councillor and support the community. I have lived in the hills for over 40 years and have a deep love and commitment for this community and want nothing better than to see it move forward and thrive in the future. I have been heavily involved in local community, recreational groups, schools, environmental groups and the Country Women's Association. I have been following the Agribusiness Audit and look forward to working with the community when it is released. I will advocate for clear communication and decision making within the Council ensuring all actions are transparent and accountable. I would be honoured to have your support in this Election, and I promise to always put the needs of our community first. Together, we can make a positive impact and create a better future for Cardinia Shire.

If you feel it's time for a change in how Ranges Ward is represented, please vote for me. If elected, my focus will be on improving the Council services that Hills residents need - and strengthening practical Council support for local community groups and volunteers. I will strive for a better balance than we have seen so far, of meeting imposed growth corridor needs (if we must) - versus providing good service to existing residents in rural areas. Somehow there is no current coherent plan for the future of our district or its townships and I'll work to fix that. Over time, no clear plan risks us losing what makes our area such a great place to live. I'll also work to support the already huge efforts of locals, in helping us all be as prepared for fires and storms as we can be. I've worked in Community Engagement, Risk Management, Business Continuity and Incident Management and am familiar with governance practices for large organisations. I'm a longtime local volunteer myself and have contributed to several community groups across the district over the years. I will apply this experience to the job of being your local councillor. Thankyou for your consideration.

Cardinia Council will collect $126m in rates/charges this year. How much will we see spent in our backyard? Every single dollar I can muster! The Ranges Ward is a beautiful unique area within our large and diverse Shire, our priorities and needs are very different to many other regions of Cardinia. We need a strong capable voice to effectively represent our communities in the Council chamber and I believe I am the best placed person to deliver this for our region! I have proudly served as the Ranges Ward Councillor for the previous two terms. Each term I’ve received the support of the wider Councillor group to serve as Cardinia’s Mayor, working closely and effectively with the senior management team. This support and team work is essential to deliver for our residents in the hills and with your support I can hit the ground running from day one to do this again. Increased resources for roads and drainage maintenance! Funding for future road sealing programs! Effective vegetation, open space management! Supporting our community groups, volunteers and sporting clubs! Emergency management planning! Strategic planning for our beautiful townships! Seeking your support to be that strong voice representing our region once again.

I love our community and have been honoured to be the Toomuc Ward Councillor from 2020 til now. My commitment is genuine, community representation. I am contactable, approachable and I listen. I advocated hard for Toomuc Ward; my results including securing Officer District Park Stage 1, progressing Cardinia Life’s much needed upgrade plans, securing co-funding in Council’s forward budget and detailed, strategic advocacy to attract the state and federal investment. I have represented you on Council’s Safer Communities Partnership, Access and Inclusion Committee, and Council’s Audit and Risk Committee (finance and transparency), I chair the Multicultural Advisory Group and am one of Victoria’s delegates on the National Growth Area advisory committee. With a 17 year career in engineering roles, mostly in state and local government, my work experience and professional skill set has empowered me to act and deliver; and I can promise my commitment is to continue providing the highest standards of representation for you. I am keen to establish a Community Panel for enhanced Community Engagement. My passion and drive for this work, comes from my respect of our community, my family (I’m a proud mum and Aunty) and I would be honoured by your vote of support.

A proud, born and bred shire local who will be your voice for action in Toomuc ward. I'm a musician, teacher and sports fanatic who has played local football and cricket my entire life. Combining my strengths in these areas and with expertise in events management, I aim to bring more events for locals to connect, further enhance the profile of what is already a great area of the Cardinia shire and generate income for local businesses. I am 100% independent with no hidden agendas with my only goal being how I can best connect and serve my community. As your councilor, the following realistic expectations will be addressed. 1. Prompt return on all communications. 2. Development of short and long term strategic plans for the courts and aquatic facilities at Cardinia Life. 3. Ensure that the shire maintains all parks and gardens to the highest standard so that residents from all across the shire are encouraged to use our facilities. 4. Consult with relevant authorities on better managing traffic flow and safety of intersections between Toomuc Valley Road and Cardinia Road. 5. Work with local authorities to improve crime prevention and create a greater sense of community safety.

As a Greens-endorsed candidate, proud Pakenham resident and local dad, I’m standing for Council to advocate for a sustainable and thriving community. Raising my family in Pakenham for nearly 7 years, I’m deeply connected to our vibrant local community. My experience as a volunteer coach at Officer City Soccer Club and as an active triathlete has shown me how sports and community initiatives can bring people together. I hold two master’s degrees—one in Operations Management from Melbourne University and another in Environment and Climate Emergency from Curtin University—which, along with my over 20 years of experience in supply chain management, equip me to bring strategic, long-lasting solutions to the challenges our community faces. My key focus areas include taking strong local action on climate change, reducing the cost of living through initiatives that promote energy efficiency, improving sports infrastructure to foster a healthy, active community, and enhancing active transport options to make our streets safer and more accessible. For more information or to get in touch, visit https://greens.org.au/vic/person/rodrigo-bardales or email me at rodrigo.bardales@vic.greens.org.au. Vote [1] Rodrigo Alonso Bardales Salguero for a stronger, more sustainable Toomuc Ward!

I have lived in Officer with my family for the past 10 years and am proud to call Cardinia home. As a father of two, I understand the needs of our community and what makes it a great place to live, work, and raise a family. If elected, my priorities will include strengthening community services, particularly for youth, people with disabilities, and elderly residents. I will focus on addressing the rise in crime to ensure a safer Cardinia, as well as improving public transport and reducing traffic congestion. Accountability in council decision-making is essential, and I will work to keep rates down and ensure transparency. I am committed to enhancing parks and recreational spaces for families, supporting local businesses, and promoting job creation to boost our local economy. Additionally, I believe in sustainable environmental practices to protect our natural resources for future generations. I understand the challenges posed by the cost of living and housing crisis, and I will continue to advocate for solutions in collaboration with state and federal representatives. My vision is for a safe and liveable Cardinia for all. I would be honoured to represent you and humbly ask for your vote 1 in the upcoming election.

Over my current term as Westernport Ward councillor, I have successfully advocated for residents on planning, better road maintenance and drainage issues. I promptly address resident's concerns through phone and email and endeavour to ensure swift resolutions. Notably, I secured over $4 million in funding for the Cora Lynn FBC to upgrade their change rooms. I prioritized and secured the sealing of Mt Lyall Road and obtained $5 million in election promises for Westernport Ward alone. I have also played a key role in reinstating partial funding for the Kooweerup netball courts after initial council withdrawls, and facilitated state funding applications for the project. My advocacy includes ensuring Lang Lang's public art reflects community desires, meeting with state Ministers and MP's to fund the Lang Lang bypass for resident safety and supporting the return of a permanent police presence at the Lang Lang. I actively participate in ward committee meetings, support the Westernport Biosphere, and advocate to protect Westernport Bay, opposing infrastructure detrimental to the bay. I am committed to calling out any injustices affecting our community and will continue to be a strong advocate for the residents of this remarkable ward. Thank you for your continued support.

Spending my childhood in Catani, attending its primary school and working on our beef farm gave me roots in Cardinia. My family ran various retail and transport businesses in Garfield and Pakenham. We chose Cardinia to raise our family of four children, for its small neighbourhood, local shops and abundance of fresh produce. I worked in IT for small and large corporates but changed career to focus on family. I spent 20 years working for a local children's choir and more recently an acclaimed Melbourne-based choir. Giving young people a voice, connection and purpose was highly rewarding. I believe that Council should focus on what matters - keeping our roads and footpaths maintained, rubbish managed and streets clean and safe. I'm running for Cardinia Council to bring real cost-of-living relief to families. I will focus on reducing wasteful spending and I pledge to never vote for a rates increase. I'm committed to protecting your property rights and to reduce the redtape it takes for you to run your home, farm, property, business or club. Transparency and action at Council is essential. I will fight to have the council work for you, not against you.