PRIORITIES:

Stronger leadership for our community

better vision and attention to infrastructure (thus better relationships with state and federal representatives)

Better representation, representation that listens and acts.

BIMC: Bathurst needs to ensure for its future prosperity that it is in a position to attract significant development while at the same time retaining, maintaining and protecting its heritage. It is also important that our CBD remains economically sound and vibrant. Further provision of first-class medical services and access to specialists is important. I support the BIMC proposal.

WATER SECURITY: Increased (possibly with incentives) storm-water retention (tanks). Progress the storm-water harvesting. Again, lobbying for state/federal funding with respect to increasing capacity of Chifley Dam.

RIVER CROSSING: Yes, close examination proves that extending Stewart Street would be the most effective and efficient. There is strong merit in doing this prior to raising the Edgel Bridge (to 5.5m).

AMBULANCE STATION: There are many discussions as to how, all have merit. What is important is that a way forward is found to repurpose the building and it not be allowed to sit empty like the TAFE building has. Personally, its location would serve as an excellent location for a bigger better and permeant home for the Bathurst Historical Museum with cafe and small shop. Such an arrangement could also include an extensive display as to our gold history and the photographic work of Bernardt Holtermann - just an idea.

GO-KART TRACK: It is a matter of extensive discussions with the go-kart community and broader community noting this location has previously been rejected. There is merit in Bathurst having a go-kart track and if we have one, have one of international standard. I am not opposed to some community funds being used to achieve such a facility so long as it is publicly accessible but not at the expense of other more important infrastructure projects.

RATES CAP: It is not possible to answer this question without a greater appreciation as to the exact position which can only be gleaned once elected. Certainly, any decision to raise rates above the cap would need to be widely supported by the community and they would need to be assured as to the purpose of the funds raised, it also being noted that any such proposal would need to be inter-related with significant state and federal government infrastructure grants.

BUSINESS COMMUNITY: Simply a better and close working relationship with the Business chamber. At the same time the Business Chamber must expand and improve its representation and membership. There is merit in another candidate's idea to restructure council streamlining some functions and providing direct management to others to better promote Bathurst.

WOMEN'S VOICE: It is a pity that not more women have positioned themselves to gain a seat on council. In saying that it is important regardless of gender that candidates are elected on their merit. There will remain opportunities for women to have a voice, and regardless who is on council it is important that councillors listen to their concerns.

COUNCIL DIVISIONS: It is about respect; it is about being responsible with what you say (noting ones right to say it). It is about maturity in the debate by discussing the issues, and not the person. It is about setting the standard by leading by example and then demonstrating that leadership by being consistent and holding those who stray to account. It is about culture.

FUNDING: None. None sought for nor received. And if offered, declined. I am meeting all of my costs and expenses personally - nor did I pay somebody to deliver my how to vote flyers - all were personally delivered.