Your age and experience in politics: One of the more mature candidates at 61 .Some may be aware that I ran as an independent at the last NSW election,I also had a tilt at the local government here in Mudgee just missing out on a few preference votes I believe.I have had a year and a half on the local preschool board.I have been an active campaigner against CSG and greenfield coalmines.
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Profession outside of politics: Currently a humble postie,but entering the workforce in the middle of a recession I have taken several career paths I first trained as a saddler with a long standing company in Sydney(JP Talty's) I had a period as a bus and taxi driver before becoming a scuba instructor working in North Queensland and overseas. Nearly 20 years ago I settled into the tourist industry working as an Ecco driver guide; accredited to guide in Kakadu and tours to the blue mountains.
Why are you running for the seat of Dubbo? I am running again in Dubbo as I don't see any other candidates concerned and committed to urgently tackling climate change.
Why should people vote for the party you stand for? If people took the time to look at the Greens web site they would see a party committed to social justice, equality and protecting the environment.I believe they are a party greatly misunderstood in regional areas.
What are the top three issues in the electorate? There are so many pressing issues its hard to prioritise them but I believe the top three issues are and not in any particular order; the drought, which then breaks down to; the causes ,the use of water and how to manage its effects. Secondly would be the sustainability of the region how to grow employment to retain the skill base to maintain a viable regional economy. Third would be climate change and all the disastrous consequences it entails.
Why should people vote for you? I want people to vote for me to send a clear message to whoever wins government that they want urgent and effective action on climate change,as a minor party member I wont get a seat at the table but I sure as will be standing next to it banging on it loud and constantly to focus attention on the need to act with haste to minimise the effects of global warming.
READ ABOUT THE OTHER CANDIDATES
- Matthew Dickerson (Independent)
- Lara Quealy (Shooters, Fishers and Farmers)
- Dugald Saunders (Nationals)
- Stephen Lawrence (Country Labor)
- Joanne Coterill (Flux)
- April Salter (Australian Conservatives (NSW))
How do you propose to bring more jobs to the electorate? Dubbo is strategically located in one of the renewable energy hubs for NSW there are and will be many jobs associated with the renewable energy transition. Proposals already on the table have my full support like the bid for the Qantas training centre and the new rail facility.
What is your stance on renewable energy? Renewable energy is our future. It does not increases global warming over its generation lifespan, it will provide jobs, give us independence from fossil fuels and it will reduce power prices.
What do you feel is the biggest issue affecting people in your electorate? This is a difficult one to answer because of its subjective nature. I think people perceive an uncertain future,not just for one but several reasons ,we have a changing climate, we have an unprecedented drought we have successive governments that appear self serving rather than working and listening to the people, consequently increases in power prices due to the sale of state assets,poor financial decisions. Will the next elected government have the skill and the will to fix these problems and give people the confidence they are being governed in the interest of everyone not just a few.
How do you propose to help with this should you be elected? I have a very strong sense of social justice, if elected I will be there batting for the benefit of all.making sure government decisions are transparent and accountable, as Don Chipp said I will try to "keep the bastards honest."
Where do you stand on the second bridge / ring road for Dubbo? I have serious reservations about the River St proposal I question if two-thirds of people are opposed why is it the preferred option, we should seriously look at the ring road proposal which in my opinion would be the better way to go.
What is your stance on a drug court for Dubbo? I have always been in support of a Drug Court for Dubbo in combination with a residential rehab facility. Further I would encourage a consideration of implementing a justice reinvestment project the same as Bourke. The Greens have always encouraged education over incarceration.
What is your favourite book/hobby/activity? I love the author Rahl Dahl. My hobby is wood carving and sculpture and my favourite activity is being inactive (with three young boys a rarity these days).