Bendigo Monthly Election Supplement

12 Page Liftout Bendigo Council Election Special s e t a d i d n a C e Meet th n o i t a m r o f n I l a Elector . . . e r o M & s w e i v r Inte

More music with your breakfast...

Bendigo 96.5 Castlemaine 106.3 • Request/studio line: 5444 1355 • Office: 5444 1377 • www.klfm.com.au

Pg.12

October 2020

Electoral Information

Complete List of Candidates in Ballot paper order

Whipstick Ward

Julie Sloan Mob: 0492 929 648 julie.sloan.ajp@gmail.com Pauline Murtagh Mob: 0401 823 154 pauline.murtagh@live.com. au Luke Martin Mob: 0428 694 276 Lukeforwhipstick@gmail. com Source: Victorian Sharon Flaherty Electoral Commission Mob: 0490 485 597 sharonflahertyforcouncillor@gmail.com Lockwood Ward Michelle Goldsmith John Drake Cooper Mob: 0439 465 589 BH: (03) 5447 0312 michellegoldsmith2020@ AH: (03) 5447 0312 gmail.com Mob: 0488 564 640 Malcolm Pethybridge johndrakecooper@gmail.

Mob: 0427 376 983 com moon.shine2@bigpond.com Rod Fyffe James Rouel BH: (03) 5443 7673 Mob: 0427 165 356 AH: (03) 5443 7673 james.rouel@gmail.com Mob: 0474 451 254 Andrea Metcalf rodfyffe@gmail.com BH: (03) 5448 4839 Vyonne McLelland-Howe AH: (03) 5448 4839 Mob: 0409 599 335 Mob: 0402 848 529 barachi2@live.com.au ammetcalf@hotmail.com BYRNE, Narelle Jayne Andrew James Quin Narelle Jayne Byrne Mob: 0474 209 918 Mob: 0400 054 839 narelleb.gallery@gmail.com Andrew.Quin@outlook.com David Fagg Barry Lyons Mob: 0421 764 699 Mob: 0408 510 622 dffagg@gmail.com barry@p1property.com.au Thomas Prince Jennifer Alden Mob: 0437 928 361 Mob: 0488 235 680 hello@thomasprince.com.au jenalden@bigpond.com Monique Jan Pagliaro Nathan Rogers Mob: 0434 376 066 Mob: 0424 970 190 yoursay@nathan-rogers.com jan_pagliaro@hotmail.com Kathryn Stanislawski Vaughan Williams Mob: 0429 981 475 Mob: 0479 152 245 vaughan@vaughanwilliams. kathrynwhipstick@gmail. com com.au

Eppalock Ward

Greg Jacobs Mob: 0447 004 363 greg.jacobs17@bigpond.com Brett Mitchell Mob: 0410 433 644 brettmitchell4eppalock@ gmail.com George Flack Mob: 0418 507 992 george.flack@fasg.com.au David Hewitt Mob: 0403 642 181 davidhewittforeppalock@ gmail.com Robin Chapman BH: (03) 5425 3258 AH: (03) 5425 3258 rchapman876@gmail.com Lewis Freeman-Harrison Mob: 0413 144 434 lewisfreemanharrison@ gmail.com Gregory Penna BH: (03) 5443 5375 Mob: 0427 400 930 pennagregory@gmail.com Helen Leach Mob: 0408 346 240 leachhelen663@google.com Matthew Evans Mob: 0474 490 008 mattyevansmedia@gmail. com Margaret O’Rourke Mob: 0427 019 900 marg@morconsulting.com. au Susie Hawke Mob: 0447 801 710 susiehawke3@gmail.com

THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Greater Bendigo council has three wards: Eppalock, Lockwood and Whipstick.

Three councillors will be elected in each of the three wards. Nine in total for a four-year term of office.

October 24 election day This will be the first year postal voting is used by all councils.

Ballot packs will be sent out between October 6 - 8.

Votes have to be sent by 6pm on October 23.

Results will be declared on November 13.

Why advertise in other newspapers you have to buy and only reach a portion of your market

can help you •Independent News •Engage with a larger audience •Free to homes and on line -

Contact Us Today To Make An Appointment To Discuss Your Needs.

•Plant Equipment •Motor Vehicle •Residential & Commercial Property 0418 506 974 dean@lakeys.com.au Kayla Webb 0476 437 348 kayla@lakeys.com.au

no costly ongoing fees •Supporting local business and community groups

Phone the team on 5448 4339

51 Bull St Bendigo Vic 3550

PHOENIX FM 106.7

The Voice of Your Community Become a sponsor - Get your message out there! - A cost effective way to promote your business!

www.phoenixfm.org.au

Email: admin@phoenixfm.org.au

October 2020

Pg13

Electoral Information Message from the Bendigo Alliance Max Turner President Bendigo Alliance - turnermj@bigpond.com

Your Council Vote Makes a Difference At the 2020 Council elections your vote really matters. Councillors decide how much you pay in rates fees and charges and how that money is spent on your behalf.

You need to have more say - Residents have a right to be part of the decision-making.

Bendigo Alliance (BA) was formed by an open nonaligned group of residents because of concerns that the majority of compliant Councillors and the Chief Executive Officer were dismissive of residents wishes and concerns. B.A saw residents silenced.

More than 800 people have already participated in Bendigo Alliance virtual meetings. This article reflects their views. The numbers dramatically contrast with Mayor Margaret O’Rourke’s claim that only a handful of residents had concerns; 800 is more residents than have participated in any recent Council activity.

Your vote influences what is built for the community from roads to bridges, and what services council should provide, and what staff are employed. Importantly, the CEO’s contract expires soon, and the new Councillors will have the responsibility of advertising nationwide and selecting the best candidate.

Bendigo Alliance believes it’s time Councillors and the CEO treated residents with greater respect. The new Council must be more open and connected with the residents, and BA hopes you share that view.

The candidates who are elected in the coming election should represent you - and shape Greater Bendigo’s future; from Harcourt North to Elmore, Heathcote to Raywood, and urban Bendigo.

Bendigo Alliance’s perception is the majority of present Councillors engage in group-think with senior officers and are subservient to government, and special interest groups. BA opposes

rule by a Council Monarchy, or an unelected administration and a proxy elite. Our Council must not become an operative of any government or group, nor should it fancy itself as a mini-state or regional governance body.

Pre-COVID-19 Mayor O’Rourke and the submissive Councillors doggedly refused to hold public meetings to gauge the views of ratepayers on Council matters. Even when council forms committees with community representation, like the Epsom / Huntly Drainage Committee, the views of long-term residents are glossed over, and bureaucrats’ rule and seemingly have control of final reports. Despite countless hours put in by the Committee nothing much changed The best, and most recent example of Council’s arrogance is the sale of Lyttleton Terrace offices and land to the State Government to build an unnecessary GovHub that strips residents of locally-owned assets and commits them to ongoing debt. The silent overwhelming majority of residents were either against the project, or did not have sufficient information to engage councillors because Council did not provide information in a timely manner. Many in the community are oblivious to the fact that the City Office, owned by us will be demolished in the next week or so. So much for real consultation.

Another clear example of council’s failure to inform, engage and consult with the community is around parking to service the GovHub and other new government developments in the area. We know the GovHub will have no public parking, and little (or none) for the 1,000 employees who will occupy the building.

Will they clog up the streets?

Candidates need to seek out council’s hidden plans for a Multi-Story Carpark anticipated cost, and who will pay.

Tell the voters. It is not good enough to stay silent and let the next Council shoulder responsibility and decades of

ratepayers the massive debt.

Too many stuff-ups in the past.

Much of what recent Councils and the CEO have done was done to impress and serve outside influencers or councillor’s personal agenda rather than serve the majority of residents. The continual increase in your rates, fees, and charges to achieve the appeasers’ aims doesn’t appear to bother most councillors. Only councillors Metcalf, Flack and Alden dared to differ in opinion to the CEO’s Budget.

An ongoing search for savings, or how to operate more efficiently is only talked about, not practised.

Despite the COVID 19 crisis a majority of Councillors approved the CEO’s recommendations to unnecessarily jack-up stressed residents’ rates by 2% and some fees and charges by even more, only to then blow $4M to employ 37 non-critical non-COVID related new staff, $500K on shade cloth for the failing Hargreaves Mall, and throw away millions renting office space to cover poor planning around a GovHub. In recent years, supported by councillors like Rod Fyffe and CEO Niemann, tens of millions of your money has also been chewed up, wasted, or vanished for little gain.

Deserted Hargreaves Mall - $10M plus and growing; failed Marong business park and Carter Farm fiasco $2M plus; destroying perfectly sound roundabouts in the CBD - $100K’s; knocking down community Hall for a KF pool - $4M; lost $M’s pursuing a GovHub; overspending $M’s on the library and Walk Bendigo; ignoring residents and chasing parking options around the dissolved Aspire project -$???K, and the inefficiencies around the Golden Square Swimming Pool and Recreation Reserve Plan hundreds of thousands of dollars and growing.

More millions of your money is drained replicating services better handled by private sector, government agencies, or not-for profit organisations. All this needs to change. Accountability

has vaporised.

The CEO and some Councillors publicly oppose the 2% government’s rate cap wishing to put their hands deeper into your pocket with higher rates, levies, fees, and charges. They now look at sneaky ways around the cap by approving and trialling a community infrastructure levy of $1,200 on new dwellings in Maiden Gully; be certain it will hit your area soon.

What the council won’t do is consult, listen and more importantly respond, and allow the whole community to be engaged and canvass every option until the best for Greater Bendigo is gained to drive long-term, sustainable local jobs, support local small business and build confidence across our community. Rural areas and townships are treated as dependent children.

Information sharing is a key to delivering better and more efficient services.

Council needs to promote and vastly improve public access to Council information, accountability, and community engagement and consultation.

Many Councillors over the past four-years have been invisible to the general public. A request for a Public Forum and debate to explain and hear community concerns regarding the GovHub was formally rejected by the Mayor in writing. Not good enough, there needs to be more face-to-face debates with the public, and

councillors writing public position papers on important matters prior to a Council debate. When did you ever hear a councillor stand up in front of a crowd and make a case for your Ward and answer questions?

The Bendigo Alliance will support candidates - in the October election whose platform supports: · limiting rate, fee, and

charges increases · refocusing on basic services for residents like roads, parks, drainage, gutters, etc · putting Bendigo first and ending the extravagant and costly betrayal of our city and the loss of our independence to external bodies · provision of publicly available cost-benefit

analysis for all projects over $1million · mandatory genuine community engagement and consultation. · improved accountability, and access to council information. · Culling, uncluttering, and simplifying the mountains of Council public documents Look for candidates who make these kinds of statements publicly and who you have confidence that they will perform and not roll over to the wishes of the CEO and Government.

Candidates who may be commercially conflicted, or who are single issue players pushing federal or state matters are of little use. Look for candidates with integrity

who will speak out on behalf of their constituents. Only two councillors have done this on a consistent basis, Councillors Metcalf and Alden.

Look for candidates who understand you, and who you understand.

Bendigo Alliance believes Councillors Fyffe, O’Rourke, Pethybridge and Hawke have, without sufficient public consultation and due process, voted and supported matters that were not in the best interest of residents. Good examples include Budget increases in rate, fees and charges, the GovHub, and the $1,200 Maiden Gully levy. These councillors uncritically backed the officers and gave scant thought to the adverse financial and well-being impact on future councils and residents. We encourage you to put these candidates last.

YOUR VOTE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

ADVERTISEMENT

HAWKE

PETHYBRIDGE

FYFFE

O’ROURKE

D E S I A THEY R S E T A R YOUR

PUT THEM LAST

Authorised By City of Greater Bendigo Ratepayers Association Inc. PO Box 315 Golden Square Victoria 3555

Pg.14

October 2020

Meet The Candidates

George Flack N.Nicholas Editor

George Flack is again running for a second term as Councillor for the City of Greater Bendigo in the Eppalock Ward.

George brings with him a depth of knowledge and expertise unparalleled by his rivals. His list of achievements outside of Council is indeed quite staggering. Recently being

awarded the prestigious Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in the General Division for ‘service to the community of Bendigo and to finance. George, who was born and raised in Bendigo, received his OAM for his service to the Bendigo community, which includes: President and Board Member of the Bendigo

Athletic Club since 2000; President of the Victorian Athletic League, 2000-2007; Voluntary Chair, Relay for Life Bendigo, 2000-2005; Member of the Marist Brass Band since 1964; Past secretary, treasurer and member of the Bendigo Country Fire Authority, since 1967; Member of the Bendigo Tourism Board, 20012007; and Chair of the Bendigo Tourism Board, 2004-2006.e’,as part of the

Financial Planner of the Year. This award is almost impossible to win once let alone twice and is testament to George’s sound financialmind.

In his last term as Councillor, George has tried to bring a common sense approach to all matters. He recently strongly opposed the sale of our Council Chambers to the State Government for the purpose of developing a GovHub. Being proven to be one of the most sound financial minds in the country and laying out for Council exactly how they could finance their own building development it was amazing 2020 Australia Day Honours how the Mayor and others could be so quick to dismiss List. his logic and not even seem With his long list of community involvement, it’s to take it into consideration before casting their vote. not surprising that George Now we the ratepayers are has received numerous saddled with years of debt awards over the years, and have lost an asset we including being named previously owned. Georges Citizen of the Year for the plan was to build our own City of Greater Bendigo in 2000, as well as being a torch version of GovHub and in turn lease space back to bearer for part of the relay leg for the Sydney Olympics other Government agencies that same year. And in 1996 in turn creating revenue for the Council not debt. and 2004, George was also George is passionate if named Money Management

re-elected in developing and implementing strategies, to assist business in Bendigo who have suffered via recent forced closures. He has a range of ideas from reducing rates and abolishing various fees to help get them back on their feet. As George states, “Councils grand plans to re-develop the CBD won’t be much use if there are no tenants left in the CBD, swift action is required by Council to make sure this doesn’t happen, this is not the time for rate increases and additional fees, rather reductions and Council should be looking more to tightening it’s own belt and helping others, not grand plans.”

George encourages anyone who wants to know more or have suggestions of their own on the future of our City and surrounds to contact him via details below.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Contact George direct Ph: 0418 507 992 E: george.flack@fasg. com.au

ADVERTISEMENT

Acting in the best interests of ratepayers

VOTE 1

George Flack Eppalock Ward

Independent Experienced Advocate for business Community first focus Always available to discuss any issues 0418 507 992 george.flack@fasg.com.au Authorised by George Flack PO Box 758 Bendigo Centre Victoria 3055

October 2020

Andrea Metcalf

Meet The Candidates

to become a tenant and pay rent in the Gov Hub. She was also critical of council’s recent budget, saying it had not done enough for local For any resident whom has businesses in these Covid-19 ever attended a times. listening post in the She was instrumental in Whipstick Ward you will helping to achieve the best know that Andrea Metcalf outcomes for Bendigo’s is a regular fixture. Ever youth within the ward. Her responsive to residents needs ‘Walk to School’ with the she is always available, i-pad Epsom Primary School in hand to hear concerns resulted in a petition and assist in liaising with organised by students. council, where required.

The outcome was a school She’s lodged about 1,000 crossing supervisor being customer requests on behalf appointed to the crossing of residents over her term on at the traffic lights at the council. corner of Howard Street and A hands on, no-nonsense Midland Highway, thanks practical approach is what to her petition suggestion.

Andrea has bought to the The Walk to School with the fore over the years within Eaglehawk North students Local Government. She is resulted in a footpath for the one of the few in this papers students, to the School. view that has listened to She encouraged Aidan community concerns and Baldwin to put in a budget voted with their best submission for a skate park interests at heart. at Epsom in 2016 and it is She voted yes to keep the now built, thanks to him.

Golden Square Pool open, Andrea strongly advocated voted no to the compulfor the retention of the sory acquisition of the Melbury Court playground Carter farm for the Marong using the residents’ own business park and voted words, as to why it should no to sell off the council be kept. owned land and building , Andrea is passionate when

it comes to waste management and one of her goals if re-elected is a review of council’s current waste management policies. Red bins for household rubbish are a typical example. “There is an opportunity to look at a fortnightly collection of the red bin using different models, but the community has to agree to it. It would reduce people’s rates, but the community needs to have all of the information to be included in the decision making. There can be no

pre-conceived outcome.”

Readers will note the notices of motions that Andrea has put forward in her current term as councillor.

These include: A review of the Council procurement policy to make it mandatory for the use of recycled products in construction projects wherever possible. An example of this is the new road at the Eaglehawk landfill made using recycled materials; A request to the State Government for effective

waste and resource recovery resourcing for Local Governments; A request to the Minister for Energy, the Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio seeking her support for a container deposit scheme and asking her to advocate for a national, well- funded approach to a circular economy.

Andrea promises from day one if re-elected to organise a committee of local business leaders to tackle the challenges presented to them

Pg15

by Covid and how to best render effective and timely assistance.

For those who wish to know more or engage with Andrea, you can reach her on mobile, Facebook or via email.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Contact Andrea direct Ph: 0458 098 267 www.facebook.com/ andrea4whipstick

ADVERTISEMENT

For a STRONG VOICE on Council Listened to the community on key decisions • Retaining the community run Golden Square Pool • Voting no to the compulsory aquisition of a family farm • Voting no to selling Council land to become a tenant in the GovHub

Independent

• Prepared to challenge and question organisational recommendations • No political party affiliations

Supporting local business

• Advocated for rate waivers for Covid impacted businesses

Experience in the role • Ready from day 1

To Ensure Your Voice Is Heard

VOTE 1 0458 098 267

Andrea Metcalf Whipstick Ward

ametcalf4whipstick@gmail.com

VOTE 1

www.facebook.com/andrea4whipstick Authorised by A Metcalf, 45 Strickland St, Ascot 3551

Pg.18

October 2020

Meet The Candidates

Speaking with Councillor Dr Jennifer Alden its clear that track records matter to her.

of Council. This includes putting public health first, defending community recreation facilities such as the Golden Square swimming pool.

Jennifer is running again for Council as there are many initiatives underway to which she would like to continue to make a difference.

As she says, “Community matters and our future matters.

In her four years on Bendigo is looking for Council she has worked tirelessly for the community support to resume life to the maximum following - in public and behind the COVID-19. Our prosperity scenes. It has involved depends on how we can constantly questioning processes and strategies and bring flexibility in assisting our businesses, our vulneradvocating for change. able community members “Its important for a and those doing it tough. councillor to ask the hard questions” says Jennifer. “In Importantly, this needs to include maintaining Council’s addition, I speak to issues in-home services, keeping affecting our community at every Council meeting. I do older residents socially connected”. my homework.”

At a recent Council meeting “We have the opportunity she said: “I know that when to create prosperity with jobs in the renewables and community interest and recycling and manufacturing social benefit comes up industries and by supporting against ‘orderly planning building of environmenoutcomes’ my support tally sustainable affordable usually lies with the community. This has played housing that will create employment for youth. We out as support for several proposals over the past term can support enterprise with

increased local food production and local tourism post COVID-19 with our City of Gastronomy brand.”

“During this term on Council I am proud that my hard work for action on Climate and Biodiversity Breakdown has led to divestment from investment in fossil fuels and work on climate action with zero carbon and city resilience plans and a biodiversity strategy in the pipeline. We can provide an example of what can be achieved by local government in creating well-designed, resilient, inclusive and prosperous communities. I want to be part of that” she says.

“During my time as a councillor I have come to believe that true independence of Council and councillors is best for the community.

I am proud to be an Independent voice for our community and our future.

No vested interests. No politics. I ask your support for me to continue to represent you on Council.

Vote 1 Jennifer Alden.”

Small business owner, Lewis Freeman-Harrison, is running for Eppalock Ward for the first time ever. The 25 year-old Flora Hill resident is campaigning on principles of equality, fairness, support of small business and as a voice for young citizens. He believes now is the opportune time for him to take on a greater role in his community.

“The City of Greater Bendigo needs a fresh injection of youth to assist; both in terms of the current econmic crisis and proposing new ideas to council. After all, it is my generation and the next that will have to go through the detrimental effects of this debt and deficit.

Lewis, has committed to bringing a consistent level of accountability and openness to local council if elected.

“In representative democracies, citizens delegate power to elected officials through periodic

elections to represent or act in their interest. This is the way it should be, however, this is not always the reality.

Power in the hands of the wrong people can be destructive and this is what has occasionally been displayed at all levels across government in recent times.”

Mr. Freeman-Harrison reiterated his passion for standing up on behalf of Eppalock Ward citizens of all ages, backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities, religions, and sexualities.

“I want to be a voice for all Eppalock Ward citizens. I am sticking to my principles of equality and fairness, enthusiastic about stimulating the small business sector and providing mental health training for the public to assist people who are experiencing hardship.

Furthermore, I particularly aim to ensure that our state and federal MP’s are held accountable and are subject to routine checks ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

Jennifer Alden Your Independent community voice.

ACCOUNTABILITY IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT A TOP PRIORITY LEWIS FREEMAN-HARRISON

Vote 1

Lockwood Ward City of Greater Bendigo Council Elections

Always working for our community and our future.

Authorised by J Alden, PO Box 5067, Sandhurst East 3550

and balances.”

Mr. Freeman-Harrison says he understands the need for actions to correlate with words and is confident he has been demonstrating this since the beginning of his campaign.

“We need councillors who will act in the best interests of ratepayers; councillors who are authentic, integral and transparent. I want to listen to the community when elected, just as I am doing now. Let us work together to bring Bendigo through this difficult time.”

October 2020

Meet The Candidates

Matthew Evans

graduate, I know how important communication is. I will bring my skills in communication to bring your voice to the council table. I will be accessible, consultative, and active.

I passionately believe that change in our community is always led by the people.

Change is Led by the Community. I will provide my full support for the community’s leadership in driving change.

Listening to you, taking Our city and region has action! an optimistic future. That is That is what I will do if why next term of council is elected as an Eppalock Ward vital in shaping the future Councillor on the City of of our future. We must Greater Bendigo Council. ensure that our future is on As a councillor, I will ensure the right path and that the the responsible management people are front and centre of ratepayer’s money, that of our decision making and investment is spread right planning. across our city, suburban With Bendigo’s estimated and rural areas, create new population of 200,000 opportunities in a postpeople by 2050, planning COVID world, build a and investing in our sustainable future for all community has never been generations, support our more important. Our vision community to deliver strong for the future must support outcomes, and bring the & provide opportunities for future forward. families, businesses, and As a communications community organisations to professional and journalism thrive.

As a 23-year-old, I know my long-term future is in Bendigo.

I want to be more active in shaping and improving our community for the better.

That is why I am standing.

Whoever you are, wherever you live, and whatever you do, you have the ideas and leadership that drives change in our community. I am here to support that, listen to you, and taking action!

A bit about me, I am a proud resident of Strathdale. I play footy for Golden Square, as well as cricket for the West Bendigo Cricket Club. I am an education support staff member who is responsible for communications at BSE, one of our region’s finest schools. I love our regions great food and coffee, as well as walkies in our natural parks with my fiancée and two dogs.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Contact Matthew direct Ph: 0474 490 008 www.facebook.com/ mattyevansmedia

ADVERTISEMENT

LISTENING TO YOU, TAKING ACTION!

Nathan Rogers

that I have the right skills and abilities to communicate and listen to the people of Bendigo and be their Voice in council” said Nathan at a Former CFA Volunteer, recent media conference.

Charity CEO and founder “My personal values are reNathan Rogers is standing spect, integrity, compassion to represent the Lockwood and empathy, combined with Ward in this Octobers the ability to listen to people council elections. which I believe is what the Nathan has been involved people of Bendigo need right in the Bendigo community now, the Covid 19 pandemic over many years in various has effected people in many aspects from local sports different ways and they are both local and state level going to need a council that Football league (VFL) from can listen to their needs and 2008 until 2010, and being a be able to deliver comCFA Volunteer from 2000 munity projects that help until 2016, Following on businesses and community from being a CFA get back together and restore Volunteer Nathan cash flow, recreate jobs and established and founded the opportunities to help Greater Bushfire Foundation Inc. Bendigo recover. I will put “Having been involved in all issues on the table that local sport and emergency place Bendigo and its people services and being able on the right path and work to work with vulnerable hard with all industry and people, build rapport and community leaders to move trust amongst those who the Bendigo forward in these foundation has assisted and uncertain times” stated having being able to build Nathan. partnerships that have Nathan’s main priorities if created employment skills elected are: and pathways in • Improving or addressing regeneration of fire damaged the Mall situation and working bushland , is something I with and consulting with the am proud of, and I believe community to revitalise and

Pg19

bring it back to a thriving hub of activity. • Better support and assistance for community groups to help them grow and develop.

• Review and improve community safety which includes emergency response and develop a more community focused approach to preparedness response and recovery, which includes animals and wildlife. • Improve the city’s ability to host national and international sports on a permanent basis such as AFL, A League Soccer, Big Bash and One Day Cricket.

• Covid 19 recovery for all aspects of the community To have your say and tell me your issues, concerns and improvement ideas for the Lockwood ward or any matter in the greater Bendigo region please contact Nathan via details below.

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Contact Nathan direct Ph: 0424 970 190 www.facebook.com/ yourvoicebendigo

VOTE 1

ADVERTISEMENT

Nathan Rogers YOUR VOICE FOR A BETTER BENDIGO CANDIDATE FOR LOCKWOOD WARD MY KEY PRIORITIES FOR A BETTER BENDIGO Mall Revitalisation - Consult the community regards the future of Hargreaves Mall.

> RESPONSIBLE MANAGEMENT OF RATEPAYER’S MONEY > INVESTMENT SPREAD ACROSS OUR CITY, SUBURBAN & RURAL AREAS > CREATING OPPORTUNITIES IN A POST COVID ECONOMY > BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR CURRENT & FUTURE GENERATIONS

> SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY TO DELIVER STRONG OUTCOMES > BETTER REPRESENTING YOU > BRINGING OUR FUTURE FORWARD

Increased support for community groups and volunteers. To help them grow and develop.

Community safety - Develop a more focused approach to preparedness response and recovery.

Sport - Improve the shires capabilty to host major events and increased facilities for residents.

“Dear Bendigo I am standing for Council to be your voice and make Bendigo a better place to live, work and spend time together.”

Follow me and have your say www.nathan rogers.com yourvoicebendigo

Authorised by Matthew Evans PO Box 34 Strathdale VIC 3550

natrogvote1

Authorised by N.Rogers 3 View St Kangaroo Flat 3555

RogersVote1

Pg.20

October 2020

Meet The Candidates

Barry Lyons

The CBD will be undergoing a sizable redevelopment over the next 4 years (this coming Former Mayor and term) with the building of Councillor Barry Lyons, is $100m GovHub, proposed again running for the seat of 2 possibly 3 high rise hotels Lockwood in this Octobers and other major makeovers Council elections. Barry has (law courts etc.) all at the called Bendigo home for expense of outside interests. over four decades, married Now is the time for with five children and transparency and straight currently eleven forward thinking”. grandchildren, all of whom Barry in his past roles as in turn call Bendigo home. both Councilor and Mayor If elected this will be Barry’s was involved in many third term in office. projects the highlights he Having had a brief respite say’s being; the Yulumbara from Local politics he is Theatre, Gurri again ready to play a role in Wanyarra (pool), City shaping Bendigo’s future.

Library, Edwards St car Barry represents a wealth park, tennis centre, stadium of local knowledge and expansion (new courts & experience coupled with a events), extension to the City common sense approach Art Gallery and numerous high end projects in that needs Council’s to local issues. Barry’s past improvements to sporting preference to the basic needs immediate attention. experience plus his fields across Bendigo. of the community. Projects Barry is also heavily involvement with the Due to Covid restrictions committed to seeing more community and his position such as footpaths, roads, Barry is running a funds for basic on several boards such as the public transport and waste Facebook page through management should be infrastructure being diverted Showgrounds management which residents can engage the priority. I would like to to Maiden Gully, Huntly, team make him an ideal with him: https://www. see an increase in services Goorong, Elmore, candidate. facebook.com/BarryLyonsMandurang, Sedgwick, “My main drive is purely to offered to residents and not forBendigo/ other than that a decrease as is the current Marong, Sebastian, ensure resident’s concerns Barry is trying to get out are being heard and enacted trend” said Barry in a recent Raywood, Axedale and upon in Local Government. interview with the Monthly. Heathcote. These towns and and about where possible to “Take the footpaths or lack suburbs should be a priority. meet and hear the views of Too much of Councils as many people as permits of in Marong for “Bendigo consists of more current agenda is being within the example; this is something than the CBD” say’s Barry. taken up with what I see as Lockwood Ward.

ADVERTISEMENT

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Contact Barry direct Ph: 0408 510 622 www.facebook.com/ BarryLyonsforBendigo/

Readers Don’t Forget Election Day is October 24th ADVERTISEMENT

Stability & Reliability How we manage the coming term is critical for the future of Bendigo and district

Pauline Murtagh

Pauline if elected will also advocate for more transparency between residents and council.

“I’ve been working in community engagement and We recently met Pauline Murtagh who is running for consultation since 2015. I’m excited and interested to see election in the Whipstick so many candidates list it as Ward in this year’s Council a priority. As well as being elections. ’Bubbling over certified by the with positive energy for Bendigo’ is the only way one International Association of Public Participation in could describe her community engagement I enthusiasm for her native truly believe that residents city and if elected she will having a say in decision definitely bring that to the making is vital to Council Chambers, democracy. That’s why it’s something that is definitely needed. At 37 this a priority for my campaign and something I’m is Pauline’s first campaign passionate about.” Said for election.

Pauline currently resides in Pauline. Volunteers and White Hills with her partner community groups will also be pleased to hear that and her two dogs May and Pauline if elected will be Murph, being an avid dog working tirelessly to support lover and marathon you in all endeavours. “I runner it is not surprising want to be a part of council that improved recreation that supports and celebrates reserves and dog parks are those people.” high on her agenda.

Please visit Pauline’s Readers may have seen Facebook site or contact her Pauline’s recent appearance directly via mobile below. on WIN News Bendigo talking about the need for upgrades to the Peter Krenz WANT TO KNOW Leisure Centre.

“Again and again people tell MORE? me how much this facility Contact Pauline direct means to them- and that’s Ph: 0401 823 154 why I keep talking about it. www.facebook.com/ It would be wonderful to see PaulineWhipstickward/ improvements sooner rather than later.”

PAULINE MURTAGH PROUD OF BENDIGO AND THE PEOPLE WHO LIVE HERE Independent candidate Expertise in community engagement

VOTE 1 WHIPSTICK WARD

Committed to improving Bendigo’s sport and recreational facilities.

Will champion the needs of volunteer and community groups. www.facebook.com/paulinewhipstickward Authorised By P Murtagh 10 Skibo Heights White Hills 3550

October 2020

Meet The Candidates

David Hewitt Eppalock Ward As a ratepayer and long time local community member, I expect efficient spending of council rates and for funding decisions to be transparent.

I believe that business creates wealth and jobs, and Governments tax and spend part of that wealth. So all governments, including Council have a big responsibility to spend efficiently and equitably. We must support our businesses in order to be able to assist the disadvantaged and ensure equity in our communities.

We have a responsibility to protect the environment, develop our region in a

sustainable way, buy local where practical, not sell off assets, help the disadvantaged, support business, form partnerships, help our residents stay healthy, and promote tourism. They are not mutually exclusive aims and will be my focus if I am elected to Council.

It’s hard to imagine a tourist coming to Bendigo and being drawn to our Mall. It has been a decades-long experiment

by Council to see what the effects of keeping vehicles away from businesses can be. Many CBD businesses have voted with their feet on this issue.

Let’s support our businesses first and then see what can be done about the Mall – no more bandaid solutions. If we need to hold an event, then many other venues are available.

We need fresh eyes to look at Council processes, with consultation and transparency for our decisions. Even with decisions made by other layers of Government we still need to ensure the best input for our community.

For example: · Do we need big lumbering buses carrying a few people and running “every 30-60 minutes on most routes”, or smaller vehicles which could be more responsive? · Could we assist other organisations to deliver better outcomes for our communities? · Are we examining the returns on our investments and improving our processes?

If elected I will be asking our communities to email their biggest issues so that Council can prioritise and decide what action could be taken.

I will be looking after your interests if you vote for me before Friday October 23.

For more detail on my views please go to davidhewitt2020.blogspot. com

Pg. 21

views. Community consultation is extremely important to me and I have no hidden agenda or political affiliations”.

“Please consider voting for me, I will not let you down!”

Policy Considerations •Investigate opportunities for traineeships and apprentice training.

•Investigate more efficient public transport for central Bendigo.

•Support worthwhile events showcasing Bendigo & attracting people to the region.

•Look into upgrading & modernising Showgrounds.

•Demand financial accountability from council.

•Pursue greater transparency from council dealings and staff. good stead when I began •Look into Innovative and working in the family progressive initiatives in business of Les Penna waste recycling & waste Motorcycles in Myers Street, management.

Bendigo in 1976. After •Reduce the burden of red the death of our father, my tape when dealing with brother Richard and I took council departments over the running of the •Genuine Covid-19 relief Business. I am now semi/support to persons and retired giving me the time businesses suffering because and opportunity to run for of it.

Council to work toward the • Free annual hard waste betterment of Bendigo”. (furniture & household “Over the years I attended useable items) kerbside TAFE, completing collection. courses for DLI Welding, an •One or two free tip Upholstery Course, a Brick vouchers available to Laying Course, a Computer ratepayers.

Programming Course and •Remove “Preferred an Explosives Course. In Business” preferences 1995 I obtained my Pilots opening up quotes to all Licence. Throughout my businesses and consider the life I have always looked for cost aspect. new challenges and ways to •Allow businesses who be more proactively involved quoted for council work but in the community in which were unsuccessful to view I live”. specs of winning quote.

“If you put your faith in •Capping of Rates me and vote for me as your “I have the Support and Councillor in the Eppalock Endorsement of The Greater Ward where I live, I will do Bendigo Ratepayers everything within my power Association”. to represent you and your

Greg Penna Eppalock Ward

Greg was born and grew up in Bendigo, and now feels it’s time to give back to the City that has given him so much.

“I am a proud Bendigonian having attended the Flora Hill Primary School and White Hills Secondary School.

In 1965, aged 15, I joined the RAAF as an Apprentice where I obtained my Trade as a Motor Transport Fitter and served up until 1976. I gained qualifications during that time as an A Grade Mechanic skilled in Refrigeration & Air-Conditioning, Caterpillar Vehicle Maintenance, Fuel Farm & Refuelling vehicles, Ground Lockwood ward people, support equipment and families, communities, business, clubs and organisa- Maintenance Control in HQ. On Discharge from the tions to give everybody a fair go. Footpaths, drainage RAAF I joined the Army Reserve 15 Transport Squadupgrades and better road ron in Mollison Street, until maintenance are high 1990, serving as RAEME priorities to allow safer maintaining Army Vehicles linkages for the Lockwood Ward residents. Tackle costly and Administration Logistics.” projects, overblown “These skills stood me in budgets and staffing costs under the current council ADVERTISEMENT and convert funds into meaningful projects offering a sustainable financial return for the community within the Lockwood Ward • I WILL LISTEN TO & and across REPRESENT YOU! Bendigo council region. For a council that will listen and • NO POLITICAL represent AFFILIATIONS you: Vote 1 Vaughan • A STRONG VOICE as we come out of these hard Williams. times. I’ll support FOR COMMUNITY refocusing priorities towards CONSULTATION local industry and the local • ENDORSED BY THE economy to create greater job opportunities such as RATEPAYERS ASSOC. creating a new OF BENDIGO Technology-centric industry as we come out of COVID. The time for change is now and I will support ongoing pennagregory@gmail.com 0427 400 930 external reviews of Authorised by Gregory Penna 17 Bambarra Close, Kennington 3550 council. More support for

VOTE 1 GREGORY PENNA FOR EPPALOCK

Vaughn Williams Lockwood Ward As a Golden Square resident and local businessman, it is my intention that Bendigo Council builds a sustainable future which depends on positive forward planning. I stand for transparency, accountability and support a responsive council. In the current COVID climate, I believe in a rate freeze and cost reductions to help all ratepayers

Pg.22

October 2020

Meet The Candidates

• Pauline Murtagh at Lake Neangar talking to locals about the upcoming elections.

ADVERTISEMENT

EPPALOCK WARD ***

Bendigo Council Elections

Over 70’S now need to vote***

* Suggested Voting Order* 9

JACOBS, Gregory

8

MITCHELL, Brett

7

FLACK, George

6

HEWITT, David

5

CHAPMAN, Robin

4

FREEMAN-HARRISON, Lewis

2

PENNA, Gregory LEACH, Helen

1

EVANS, Matthew

3

10 11

O’ROURKE, Margaret

HAWKE, Susie

## Why O’Rourke and Hawke last? ##

They both voted for the 2% Rate increase and fees hike in recent council budget.

They both voted for the GovHub. YOUR Council offices have been SOLD. Council will now rent indefinetely. - Higher Rates!!

PLEASE KEEP - Ballot papers arrive in October.

MAKE YOUR VOTE COUNT Authorised by Colin Carrington PO Box 626 Heathcote Vic 3523

Helen Leach Eppalock Ward

I have real concern regarding the proposed GovHub with the community not consulted and any poll taken showing 85% of Bendigonians were against it. Selling our land and knocking down a building that could have been extended two floors does not make sense. Paying rent to an unknown owner

that funds should bespread equitably throughout the municipality; for example, for 40 years is even worse. there are projects in the The GovHub and many Heathcote Community other issueshave caused my Plan - such as the Dementia decision to run for council.

Village - that have still not Higher rates and charges in this difficult Covid19 climate progressed from several years ago. There’s is economic opportunity for madness. It is likely we employment as well as a care will suffer severe hardship from an extended recession solution. Footpaths, and street lighting should be a because of Covid19; but it priority for all parts of the seems theCity of Greater Bendigo council is unaware Greater City of Bendigo.

Real community of the financial pain that consultation is something I individual ratepayers and have always actively engaged small businesses are in and if elected I would suffering. Small business is continue to do. the lifeblood of the econoHargreaves Mall - I see two my, but they need a fair go.

A local procurement policy possibilities for that -- either turn it into a food court; or should be mandatory. The CoGB should be giving local my preferred solution, which is a one way through road companies more similar to Bull Street -with opportunity to gain a cafes onone side. contract and employ.

Either way this is a project I propose a rates and for an improved economy charges freeze until the and not as a sinkhole for effects of the recession can be properly assessed. I have public money.

I will continue to lobby a trackrecord of opposing for a better solution to the higher rates and charges in problem of household waste my previous role as disposal: Iam on the record councillor in Bendigo. I as a proponent of Waste to believe that this council Energy as a long-term should be cutting its cloth solution as well as to suit the budget, which in decontamination and turn should reflect the reality of our circumstances. greater use of old mining land for Industrial use.

I also continue to believe

Andrew Quin Whipstick Ward

Let me start by saying that I am a proud Bendigonian; I was raised here, and I am raising my own family here, to say I love this city is cliché, but I truly do.

A bit about myself, I am a 52-year-old father of 5. I spent my youth enjoying all that Bendigo had to offer including, but not limited to Zoo Roller Disco, Golden Twin Cinemas, Vibrations and Rechters.

Looking back, I think that I had a fantastic childhood.

I joined the Defence Force and spent 11 years serving

in several locations across Australia. Learning leadership, teamwork and camaraderie.

Over the years I have been active within my children’s kinder having held the position of president on three occasions.

I was involved with the Australian Air Force Cadets here in Bendigo for 10 years with the last 3 years as part of the executive for 4th Wing (Victoria) serving as the Wing Warrant Officer.

My wife and I ran a hospitality business for 6

years.I feel that I would bring a lot of experience to council having been both an employee and employer; single parent and a married man; unemployed and in full time work; homeowner and renter.

My wish is to serve and represent the Greater Bendigo community and work towards building a vibrant and inclusive place to live.

My wish to be able support the growth of our community and ensure that all sections of the community, both young and old, have a voice on council.

I was born and raised in Bendigo and I am raising my family here. I have a great interest in seeing our beautiful part of the country shine and grow. I am a great believer that all parts of the Greater Bendigo area need good representation and I am determined to ensure at all peoples within the Ward are heard. I have been a business owner and been involved with youth organisations and believe that this has given me a great perspective on our city