Nillumbik Shire Council election candidates

Energetic. Professional. Engaged with residents and community groups. Business & AICD Graduate. Family here 27 years. An independent Councillor, making decisions according to what is best for residents rather than any Party or local MP. Our best voice is a Blue Lake resident. The most effective voice is an experienced one. I produced results as a Councillor 2016-2020 & have continued as an active community participant. A founding member of Friends of Apollo Parkways, we were awarded $88,000 from NE Link Community Fund. I managed the fitness station project alongside DV Stadium with additional mature trees due in 2025. New Masterplans are needed for Yarrambat & Plenty Park. Both areas have many traffic, footpath, and drainage issues that require investment. Nillumbik Councillors need to reflect the people: Informed. Active, Nature-Loving. A Councilor must be respected by his/her colleagues & be able to persuasively articulate the needs of their community. Rate capping requires smart spending decisions. Innovative thinking is needed around recycling, climate impact, infrastructure, traffic management that will achieve more & cost less. I will advocate strongly to protect neighborhood character. These shared values will help me make a difference to this wonderful place we call home. See Policies brookerbestforbluelake@weebly.com.

Are you ready for real change in our Shire? As an engineer who grew up here, I understand the importance of smart, practical solutions for our community. My commitment is to address the issues that matter most to you: affordable housing, connecting walking trails, and keeping our rates steady. I’m dedicated to ensuring that every family has access to affordable housing options that fit their needs. By leveraging my engineering background, I’ll bring innovative solutions to create and preserve these vital homes. Additionally, I plan to expand our network of walking trails, connecting neighborhoods and making our Shire more accessible and enjoyable for all residents. Imagine a community where you can walk from one end of the Shire to the other, easily and safely. Most importantly, I pledge to keep our rates unchanged. You shouldn't have to choose between maintaining essential services and managing your budget. Together, we can build a thriving, connected, and affordable Shire. Vote for me to turn these plans into reality. Let’s work together to make our community a better place for everyone.

Originally from French-speaking Montreal, Canada, I have lived in Australia for over 20 years during which time I have had the good fortune of growing roots in Nillumbik. I have lived on a bush block in Panton Hill for a decade and was previously in St Andrews. Having worked in the telecommunications industry for over 20 years, I bring extensive experience in engineering, project and commercial management and business operations. I excel in transforming problems and ideas into opportunities, developing solutions, setting goals and delivering results through teamwork. The environment in which I live is key to my work-life balance and well-being; outside of spending time with family and friends, there’s nothing I love more than working outside on the property. I have been an owner-builder and continue to landscape around the house while managing the flora around the block. We must manage commercial and residential growth while minimising environmental impact to preserve the Green Wedge for future generations. My vision for Nillumbik is a council with high integrity, which delivers on commitments, listens to residents, and prioritises their needs with sound economic decisions while protecting the environment. Vote [1] Steve Yarosz; [2] Naomi Joiner

I have been a Councillor for the past 8 years, and there is still so much to fix and sort out in Nillumbik. Nothing of substance has occurred in this last term, and this needs to change. We need projects finished, not delayed. We need actions, not strategies and plans. We need money spent where residents want, and where they receive the benefit, not on federal issues. We need the rural residents to have equality in where the rates are spent - not just the urban areas. The elderly need their services returned, fire mitigation has stalled, and we need public transport. Roads need to be repaired & housing options need to be made available to all. Real consultation needs to be with those who are affected, not political or lobby groups. We need far better outcomes for residents in the rural areas. With proven leadership, business skills and an understanding of the issues that are important to the community. My record speaks for itself and I am committed to getting Nillumbik back on track to a much better place. Let’s make it happen together.

I’m running because it’s Time for a Change. I’m a life-long local, living in Hurstbridge with husband Andrew and my two kids. I’m a working mum with 15+ years experience in government roles. Growing up, I attended Hurstbridge Primary and my passions included Hurstbridge Horse & Pony Club, Brownies and bike riding. My family has always been deeply involved in the community including Nillumbik Landcare. As Doreen School Council President, I successfully fought for building upgrades and safe walking paths. On Hurstbridge Pre-school’s Committee, I helped fight off Council’s kindergarten closure threats to Hurstbridge and Panton Hill. My family lives and breathes sport - cricket, netball and karate in Hurstbridge, soccer in Wattle Glen and Auskick in Panton Hill. Locals have encouraged me to stand because they are tired of being let down. Where are our Netball Courts? Accessible toilets? Men’s Shed? The State Government granted $2 million and $364,352 for Council to build these in 2021! Plus planning funds for Sporting Facilities for Panton Hill. Not to mention Aged Care being contracted out! I’ll fight for community, local services, sustainability, small business and protecting the Green Wedge. Contact me on 0407 141 550 naomi4nillumbik.com or NaomiforNillumbik@outlook.com. Vote [1] Naomi Joiner

I’m Rosie. I discovered beautiful Hurstbridge 17 years ago when I started teaching in Nillumbik. Since then, my husband and I have had two children and I’ve been closely involved with the local community including playgroup, our excellent local school, Hurstbridge tennis, cricket club, and Wattle festival committee. I have initiated and coordinated projects that build community and connection, like Nillumbik Repair Café in Hurstbridge. It repairs and saves hundreds of items from landfill every year, helps household budgets, and builds resilience. I have also joined in others' great initiatives like Clean Energy Nillumbik’s Sustainable House Day, opening our home to share learnings with the local and wider community after a renovation for high efficiency and comfort. As a teacher and parent, I understand the day-to-day issues facing families in Bunjil. I also see the looming threat of climate catastrophe facing our children. Proactive and courageous council leadership, and action, are needed to tackle this urgent crisis. I will strengthen protection for our Green Wedge against housing pressure, support local businesses who are the heart of our townships, and increase local capacity to cope with the challenges of climate change. Vote [1] Rosie Morgan. Vote [2] Naomi Joiner

I have lived in Nillumbik all my life I want to continue improving community facilities and maintain the wonderfull area we live in.

My family and I are based in rural Bunjil. I work on our regenerative farm and in built environment innovation research at the faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning at Melbourne University. Previously I was on the Nillumbik Environment Advisory Committee, President of Arthurs Creek District Landcare Group, and a local campaigner against the illegal Chapel Lane landfills which led to change in the Nillumbik planning scheme. I have secured multiple grants including a whole school science education visit to Healesville sanctuary for my children’s primary school. I volunteer weekly in the Lort Smith Pet Therapy ‘Youth’ program with my beautiful dog, supporting marginalised young people. I will champion on the ground programs to achieve the objectives of the new biodiversity strategy. An ambitious rural roadside greening program, open space planting and positive support for residents to improve and manage biodiversity will lead to a healthier, more beautiful and climate resilient Nillumbik where indigenous birds and animals as well as humans will thrive. I will advocate within and beyond council for better transport connections, sporting infrastructure, community programs, and for solutions to local problems. I stand for good governance and transparency. Vote [1] Hunter, Sarah [2] Joiner, Naomi

I am Chris Gregory, long-time resident of Nillumbik: traditional Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung land. I'd like to tell you what values I hold dear, so you can measure them against your own when you vote. I believe that the Nillumbik 'brand' is of social and economic value only if it remains true to its Green Wedge legacy. I believe in supporting our locally owned businesses, lest we lose them; they create jobs, prosperity and self-determination within the shire. I believe that every effort must be made to support, enable and nurture children and young people, refugees, the vulnerable, people with disabilities, the elderly and the many diverse members of our rich community; they are our neighbours and we only thrive if we stand together. I believe that economic wellbeing starts with human wellbeing, not the reverse. Our active involvement in democracy, the arts, outdoor life, sport, community gatherings, volunteering, spiritual pursuits, work, trade, politics and problem-solving is what makes us strong. Above all, the health of our local and global environment is our most pressing issue. Fail on that, and we lose everything. If this resonates with you, please Vote [1] Chris Gregory. Vote[2] Alex Grimes.

I’m proud to have grown up in our wonderful community. I’m an avid gardener and work in my family’s small local business. As a member of the Nillumbik Greens, I’m passionate about protecting our Green Wedge and neighbourhood character. My priorities include: [1] protect our Green Wedge by implementing Council’s new Biodiversity and Urban Tree Canopy Strategies; [2] advocate strongly to improve the safety and quality of local roads; [3] push for more frequent and accessible public transport in the area; [4] support essential services such as maternal health, community childcare, libraries, sports facilities, playgrounds and Edendale Farm; and [5] build safe and accessible cycling and walking infrastructure. To find out more, contact me at alex.grimes@vic.greens.org.au. Vote [1] Alex Grimes for a councillor who will put our community first.

I am an independent candidate, with strong connections to the Eltham community having grown up here and raised my family here. As a long-term community volunteer on Transport Committee’s and environmental groups I am here to advocate transparently for our community with skills gained from working in the building industry, training & education and running my own company. I will advocate on behalf of our community first and foremost on local issues and therefore I bring no agenda. As a resident, I recognize that we have Immediate issues facing our community that need a progressive yet nuanced inclusive approach. Issues such as the Statement Government’s requirement to build 12,000 houses, impending Transport Strategies and Aging in place services. All issues that require a greater recognition of Local Government’s role in delivering solutions that protect our Green Wedge and urban growth boundaries. If elected l want to work with Federal & State Government funding bodies to enable better financial outcomes for our community in these areas and continue the good work in our current youth strategies.

Why do I deserve your vote? Firstly, because I value your vote, I value your opinion, and I commit to genuine representation of our community. Secondly, I believe my skills and attributes will be an asset to the Council and the community. As a career public servant and board director, I understand the mechanics of government and how to get things done! As a university qualified scientist, I’m well versed in critical-thinking and making data-based, objective decisions. I have no affiliation with any political party, I’m just one of your neighbours who is passionate about our community and seeks to serve. I live in Edendale Ward with my husband and three dogs. My core policy values are: infrastructure and services that support healthy, active living; sensible development in-keeping with local character and the green wedge; long-term strategic planning, good governance and effective spending. Key issues for which I advocate include road safety (the Windy Mile), the Diamond Creek Trail, animal management and dog parks, access to local produce (community gardens, farmer's markets) and aged care. And, most importantly, I want to know what matters to you – the voter I shall represent! Vote 1 for JOY in Edendale Ward.

Where is your rates money being spent? According to Council’s most recent Annual Report, the top four costs are, 16.91% of rates spent on waste and recycling, 16.24% on roads, footpaths and traffic, 10.68% on environment, parks and open space and 8.43% on customer service and corporate support. This is how Council prioritises its spending. Does this match your priorities? And why has Council never asked? We pay a premium on our rates to live in the Green Wedge Shire and our Council has a responsibility to spend our money wisely and in line with our expectations. I don’t mind paying my rates because I know the value of public infrastructure and services but I want to know that my money is in good hands. Vote [1] Tim Jacobs. Vote [2] Alex Grimes.

I’m running for council because I care about appropriate development. I was shocked to hear that according to the State Government’s housing targets, Nillumbik is required to have 12,000 new dwellings by 2051, an increase of 53%! What’s more concerning is a new leaked proposal from the State Government which takes away people’s right to object to planning applications. In 2018, my family objected to an application that would have removed 764 trees from the local environment. The developer took the matter to the Supreme Court, where we won, setting a landmark precedent that confirms anyone’s right to object to an inappropriate planning application. This is a crucial part of the planning process and Council must oppose the State Government’s plan to remove it. We are experiencing a housing crisis and we do need to plan for growth but that growth must be appropriate, close to transport and services and sensitive to the neighbourhood character, wildlife and tree canopy here in our Green Wedge Shire. Vote [1] Robyn Dahl. Vote [2] Alex Grimes.

Protecting Our Most Vulnerable, Empowering All. As a life-long resident of Nillumbik, local businessman and father of two, I am dedicated to enhancing our community. With 25 years of corporate management experience across various industries, I bring expertise in corporate governance, financial management, and strategic planning. I co-own a custom engineering business, Safe-in-Motion, specializing in vehicle passenger safety for children, the elderly, and those with special needs. As a NDIS registered company, I am accustomed to operating in a highly regulated industry. Additionally, I work at Kidsafe VIC, a not-for-profit, which focuses on child safety advocacy, consulting, and training government departments and community organisations. By leveraging my skills, I am committed to making Nillumbik a safer, more inclusive community for all. I am committed to: Promoting child safety and community-focused development; Reducing business red tape and simplifying council approvals; Resisting rate increases and advocating against excessive spending; Providing free child restraint checks and improving playground access for children with special needs; Opposing high-density developments to maintain our community's character. I pledge to innovate, manage resources efficiently, and remain approachable to address community concerns, ensuring Nillumbik remains safe, inclusive, and vibrant for all. Vote 1 Michael Schillaci, Independent.

My name is Maria, and I have been a resident of Diamond Creek for over a decade. Throughout this time, I have found the frequent trips to our town centre increasingly inconvenient, underscoring a larger issue of inadequate traffic management in our suburb. The current planning shortcomings are affecting our community's quality of life, and Diamond Creek deserves a revitalization to stand out as a model of excellence in the north. Prior to moving to Nillumbik, I successfully ran a thriving small business in a bustling inner-city shopping district. My efforts to foster collaboration among local businesses significantly enhanced the district’s attractiveness and functionality. If elected to the Council, I will not only fulfill my statutory duties but also work closely with local businesses to improve both the aesthetics and traffic management of Diamond Creek's center. I understand the frustrations of residents, especially given the many challenges households face today. With our rates now the second highest in the state, it is essential to freeze them to provide economic relief. Our township needs a fresh perspective and more effective representation to rejuvenate both our community and its leadership.

I have lived in Diamond Creek over the past 19 years. My working life consists of a trade background, business owner and a long career with a major insurance corporate, managing expenditure, governance and staff. Rates: Freeze rates in Nillumbik for 3 years, council needs to manage finance and work within its means, supplement finance elsewhere such as rates and funds from additional housing, this is part of the Nillumbik Housing Strategy. Governance: Advocate that all written material distributed by the Nillumbik Shire is displaying the Australian flag. Neighbourhood character and housing: Advocate for open space and acreage living for the families, Consider the benefits that that will be gained by the completion of the North- East link to Diamond Creek residents. Aging in place: Having attended the booked-out seniors housing forum, seniors request for council to provide many single-story dwellings, with open space for a garden, no stairs and no to high rise. I will advocate for this strongly as it is a criteria listed in the Nillumbik Housing Strategy to support aging in place. Advocate for an upgrade to Diamond Creek Rd which is to include a separate path for bicycles. Prioritize removal of Diamond Creek Railway Crossing.

As the longest ever serving Nillumbik Councillor and, after representing you for over 15 years, I now seek your support to continue my life’s work of improving our facilities and strengthening Diamond Creek. I have previously served as Captain of your CFA for 10 years, been Nillumbik Mayor twice, completed 4 years on the Board of the Municipal Association of Victoria and currently sit on the Board of the Yarra Plenty Regional Library. I have partnered with other governments to deliver important local upgrades including Community Bank Stadium, Marngrook Oval Pavillion and Lights, new lights at Coventry Oval, new Regional Playspace/Tram, extended our Shared Trail to Hurstbridge, new Netball Pavilion, Courts, lights and roof and also Nillumbik’s first Youth Hub. The Ryans Reserve Playspace rejuvenation project and upgrade of 2 courts at Diamond Creek Tennis Club are currently underway. Projects I am committed to include an expansion of our Men’s Shed, renewal of our outdoor pool and baseball facilities, and implementation of the Diamond Creek Community Facilities Masterplan. This will deliver a public library, more basketball courts and new leisure facility and clubrooms for Coventry Oval adjacent our much-loved outdoor pool. Put Diamo First! Contact me on 0490776594 or peterperkinslovesdiamo@gmail.com

I am Joe Marchio, a proud resident of Diamond Creek for the past 20 years, and I have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to community welfare and education. My journey began in the early 1970s when | started working with underprivileged primary school children, which sparked a lifelong passion for helping others. I have actively engaged in fundraising initiatives and community service projects, dedicating my time and leadership skills to make a difference. My extensive experience in diverse educational settings, particularly with Indigenous communities and students with additional learning needs, has deepened my understanding of the unique challenges many face. As a semi-retired professional, I continue to mentor the next generation as a lecturer at Parade College, ensuring that my knowledge and passion for empowering youth endure. With my background in both industrial and educational sectors, I consider myself a valuable asset to our community. The Ellis Ward needs a councillor who truly understands local issues, and my longstanding residence in Diamond Creek uniquely qualifies me to advocate for the needs of its residents.

I have lived in Kangaroo Ground for 32 years with my family. I’ve been involved in community groups including Scouts, CFA, Warrandyte Community Association and Surf Life Saving. My vocation is professional engineering, in national, international and local business, involving facility design and management of building, roads, railway, major engineering projects, manufacturing, budgeting and finance. I am most interested in appropriate development the Nillumbik Shire. This should include sustainable design and development. 2018 saw my family involved in a Victorian Supreme Court action and we were part of a community action to set a landmark precedent confirming anyone’s right to object to an inappropriate development application. I am now also concerned about the State Government’s proposal to build 12,000 new dwellings in Nillumbik by 2051, an increase of 53%. A recent proposal from the State Government may also plan to take away people’s rights to object to planning applications, which is of concern. We do need to plan for development growth to tackle the housing crisis but development should be sensitive and sustainable to the urban Green Wedge and our neighbourhood character. Development should be appropriately sited near amenities and transport. Vote [1] Kim Cope. Vote [2] Murray Paternoster.

I have been a ratepayer in the Shire of Nillumbik for nearly 40 years. My wife and I helped to build our house in the Bend of Islands. While our two boys were growing up, they participated in the Panton Hill Cricket Club, Kangaroo Ground Tennis Club, Jets Gymnastics in Eltham and they attended Kangaroo Ground Primary School. I am a retired telephone technician and am now a member of the Eltham U3A Golf for Fun, including helping to orient new people to the game. I am an active member of our local Fireguard group. I support the local Green Wedge. Over the years, I have been keenly aware that our rates are expensive in Nillumbik and we deserve a Council that will spend them wisely. When I pay my rates, I think of all the essential local services and infrastructure that I am paying for. Council must make sure that rates spending matches the priorities of the community. Wherever you live, you deserve your fair share of spending. Vote [1] Chris Steed. Vote [2] Murray Paternoster.

I’m Narelle Campbell. I have been asked to run as candidate for Sugarloaf Ward. I am a long term resident and advocate for the safety and prosperity of rural people. I work as a Victorian public servant. My employee code of conduct allows me to stand as candidate for local government but limits my policy and public statement profile. This means my candidacy will be, necessarily, campaign light. I have three areas of focus as candidate for Sugarloaf Ward. Firstly, Nillumbik is not doing its share to improve housing supply and affordability. My priority is it does. Secondly, council is not managing local roads and public lands for safety and amenity of residents. My priority is it does. Finally, average rates in Nillumbik remain in the top two Victorian councils for two reasons: the population scale is too small, and council expenditure practice favours discretionary niceties over direct resident services, and action to improve resident safety and amenity. We have an ageing population increasingly reliant on direct assistance, services and support to be safe at home. These service needs are growing. My priority is curtailing council discretionary spending on wants to be sure council meets resident needs.

I’m standing as the Greens candidate for Sugarloaf ward. I live in St Andrews and strongly believe that the Green Wedge must be defended so it can continue to protect our very special local environment. I will always fight for stronger action to prevent the loss of biodiversity and tree canopy as well as on the Climate Emergency. Since retiring, I’ve volunteered many hours with environmental organisations such as the Bob Brown Foundation and campaigned determinedly for forest protection. Vote [1] Rosemary Storey. Vote [2] Murray Paternoster.

As a former outdoor educator, I understand the value and enjoyment we gain from the beautiful natural environment that surrounds us. My vision is to leave my community better than I found it. I’m 35, I have a Bachelor of Education and I grew up and worked locally. I now work as a disability support worker. I volunteer for Landcare and local events and am a lifelong scouting member and local leader. I strongly believe Landowners and volunteers are playing an important role in caring for what we have and they deserve support from Council. I’m running as an independent candidate to give a strong voice to my community when decisions are made. My priorities are: (A) Safer roads and trails. (B) Protect our Green Wedge Shire and our precious wildlife. (C) Better value for local ratepayers. (D) Improved facilities for all families. To find out more, go to murray4nillumbik.com or contact me on 0468 322 911 or murray.paternoster@outlook.com. Vote [1] Murray Paternoster

I love living in Swipers Gully and raising my young children here. I’m deeply invested in this area and I’m actively involved in the local kinder, primary school, sporting clubs and Scouts. I’m an Intensive care Registered Nurse, caring and advocating for patients and colleagues for 17 years. I’m running for council to advocate for my community and ensure that residents thrive. As your councillor, I will listen to you and advocate strongly on your behalf. I will support the invaluable work that our community groups do, and will work to improve the standard of local amenities and services. I care about protecting our area’s special local character from inappropriate development. As a member of the Nillumbik Greens, I’m passionate about our green spaces and Green Wedge. I’m keen to support local food pantry programs and broaden recycling. Good financial management is essential, and I won’t allow your rates to be wasted. Local residents deserve a representative who will listen. I will be a strong voice for our community. Vote [1] for Kate McKay. Contact me on 0494 134 587 or katemckayforswipersgully@gmail.com

I promise to stand up for Swipers Gully. I have lived in Swipers for 32 years and our kids grew up here having attended Eltham North Primary and Eltham High where I was a School Councillor for some years. We chose to live in Eltham because of the Green Wedge Shire’s leafy environment. I am not and have never been a member of any political party. I have been increasingly involved in local issues since 2008. I am President of Friends of Eltham Lower Park and I was Friends of Nillumbik’s Treasurer for many years. I bring logical thinking, a career in research, public policy, and a commitment to good governance via informed financially sustainable policies. I will advocate for a more democratic budget process responsive to community needs and initiatives. My vision for Nillumbik is of a harmonious community where its needs are met through a budgetary process that protects the Shire’s unique biodiversity, environmental and physical assets and where people have the chance to achieve their personal goals. Please vote 1 Henry Haszler and 2 Kate McKay.

Championing Nillumbik’s Bright Future, Independent. I've turned adversity into success before, and I’m dedicated to achieving the same for you. My commitment to our community is deeply personal, shaped by a decade of overcoming hardship and driven by a genuine desire to make a difference. Since championing the Walk and Shine campaign in 2019 and honoured as Victorian Father of the Year in 2016, I have consistently worked to uplift others. With a background in corporate and entrepreneurial fields, and a steadfast dedication to family and community, I am poised to preserve our vital landmarks and enhance our services. I propose freezing rates to alleviate financial strain while prioritizing essential road maintenance and preserving our landmarks. Let’s build a thriving, inclusive community where every voice is heard and valued. Vote 1 for Terry Mitropoulos-let’s move forward together.

Hi, I’m Vivian. I’m running in this year’s council election as a candidate with Victorian Socialists because I believe that people should be put before profit. I’m an Eltham local, and spent much of my childhood here. I work in hospitality and am a proud member of the Australian Workers Union. Politicians at all levels of government are in the pockets of the rich, out of touch with the people they’re supposed to represent. Oil, gas, and mining bosses are raking it in while our planet burns. Climate change is an existential threat, and councils have a responsibility to fight against it. I’ve been a student organiser and activist at La Trobe University for the past couple years. I’ve been involved in campaigns against racism, chased Nazis out of Melbourne, and fought for radical action on climate change. In recent times, I’ve campaigned in solidarity with the people of Palestine and against Israel’s war in Gaza. I believe councils should be a fighting force, and take action on social justice questions.

As an economist, management consultant, and employer, I’ve made tough, financially responsible decisions throughout my career. I’ve lived in Eltham for 37 years and am deeply invested in our community’s future. With a strong background in public finance and strategic planning, I aim to bring both fiscal discipline and a forward-thinking approach to Council. Currently, I serve on the Shire’s Economic Development Advisory Committee and have proudly led the Friends of the Eltham Copper Butterfly for over 20 years. As a founding member of Nillumbio, I’m passionate about raising awareness of biodiversity and ensuring we balance growth with environmental stewardship. If elected, I’ll focus on protecting and enhancing our biodiversity, preserving neighborhood character, and aligning future development with our Green Wedge values. I believe in a Municipal Planning Strategy that respects our unique environment while promoting sustainable growth. Vote 1, Wayne Kinrade, for strong financial management, a voice for biodiversity, and a community-first approach to planning. Let’s safeguard Nillumbik’s future together. For your second preference, I encourage support for John Dumaresq, whose values closely align with mine.

As a social justice lawyer and mum of three, I am passionate about creating a thriving, inclusive community in Nillumbik. My focus will be on enhancing environmental sustainability through improved clean energy infrastructure, water management, waste collection and fire preparedness. I will advocate for better public transport, revitalised public spaces, and high-quality, medium-density development that provides affordable housing options for people at various stages of their lives. Embracing our community’s rich history while welcoming new ideas is essential. I am committed to actively engaging with residents, listening to your concerns, and working collaboratively to build a vibrant future for all. I was inspired to run for council by former councillor and neighbour, John Dumaresq, whose commitment to the wellbeing of our community is clear. For strong, principled leadership, vote 1 for Eve Gallagher and 2 for John Dumaresq.

My primary reason for standing is to help our community manage the challenge of providing sufficient, suitable housing options for ageing Nillumbik residents who want to downsize without having to leave the area. We need to stay in the community we have contributed to, the green wedge environment we have helped protect, close to friends, familiar networks, services and facilities. Current State targets for additional homes will require Council and community members to work together creatively to achieve a range of housing choices other than apartment dwellings or exile to other municipalities. I have lived here for 40 years with my husband and our two children who attended local schools. My community participation includes many years helping the Rotary Club of Eltham conduct Art Shows and Festivals and 30 years singing with the Chocolate Lilies. My past career in the public and private sector, includes human resources management, administration, corporate compliance and risk management. Since recently retiring as an executive coach and leadership trainer, I have become an active member of Nillumbik U3A. I also support candidate John Dumaresq who demonstrated similar values, determination and conscientiousness in his last term. Vote 1 Roma, 2 John Dumaresq.

I, John Graves, am standing for this Nillumbik Council election to represent the voters of Wingrove Ward. We have seen many changes and are about to see more with the increase in population and building that has been suggested to cope with the need for more housing. My professional background is in Traffic Management with VicRoads and I recognise that an increased population demands additional infrastructure. However, this must not compromise the unique environment, flora and fauna of Nillumbik for the present and in the future; the social and health benefits of living in Eltham are important to us all, and to future generations. I am passionate about longterm planning for all stages of life so that Eltham residents have options as they age within this community. I have lived in Nillumbik for nearly 50 years and have spent several terms on Council; I have a small vineyard in Eltham, and made and sold wine commercially for more than 30 years. I have been involved with many community activities, including a leadership role with local people to save the Eltham Copper Butterfly. Vote 1 John Graves. Vote 2 John Dumaresq.

I’m John Dumaresq, and I am standing for the Nillumbik Council to bring strong, experienced leadership to our community. With a proven record as a past Councillor and with deep roots in local organisations, I am committed to ensuring Nillumbik thrives. I live in Eltham with my partner and daughter who attends our local high school. I love Eltham’s village feel and artisan community, balancing urban facilities and infrastructure with protected green spaces and sustainable housing. I’m passionate about community activities including our festivals, art classes, markets, exhibitions and sports. And of course, our famous mudbrick houses, creeks and bushland! My community leadership roles have included Eltham Child Care Co-op, sports clubs and the Eltham Major Activity Centre Forum. As a former Eltham-based Nillumbik Councillor I developed a deep understanding of community needs. I am passionate about and will advocate for responsible community planning, sustainable development, protecting our Green Wedge, supporting local businesses, affordable housing, enhancing local services and infrastructure, upgrading parks and recreational facilities and supporting local events. I have the experience and track record of getting things done. I ask for your vote to ensure our community continues to be a great place to live, work, and play.

My name is Malcolm I’ve lived in Nillumbik for 40 years with my wonderful wife, raising our seven children in Nillumbik Shire. My son Hayden is well-known in the area because of his severe autism. The community has accepted him with all his interesting issues, and we’re very grateful. I’ve been self-employed running my own business for the last 26 years, promoting healthy eating and assisting over 550,000 people in making better food choices (treating Food as Medicine) throughout Australia, New Zealand, and America. If elected my focus will be on good governance and prudent financial management. I support real transparency and accountability for our community. I’ll vote to maintain the rate cap at CPI or below and a 1-year rate freeze in my 4 years to help with the high cost of living. I oppose the Victorian government housing target of 12,000 new homes and 8-story apartment buildings centered in and around Eltham’s activity centres. I’ll focus on core issues important to residents, such as delivering needed services to all residents, bushfire maintenance, potholes on local roads, and 1 free additional rubbish collected annually. I’ll fight for ratepayers ensuring your voices are heard. Vote 1 Malcolm

As a long-term resident of Nillumbik, I love and respect for our community. I believe in common sense strategies that promote deep connections and shared growth. At the heart of my vision is building a strong sense of community by focusing on family-friendly initiatives, where every family, no matter what it looks like, feels supported and valued. In an age where digital communication often replaces face-to-face interactions, it's more important than ever to encourage community-building initiatives that foster real-life connections and shared experiences. These shared moments—whether through local events, service programs, or volunteer efforts—strengthen the bonds that hold us together and create a deeper sense of belonging. Supporting our local businesses is key to this vision, as they are the heartbeat of our community life and gathering spaces. As a former business owner, I understand the importance of creating environments where entrepreneurs and small businesses thrive, becoming hubs for interaction and connection. I am dedicated to creating an environment where entrepreneurs and small business owners can flourish. With your support, we can strengthen and enjoy the richness of shared experiences and feel connected to one another to ensure our community remains a place of unity, connection, and belonging for all.