I am seeking re-election as councillor and running as an independent candidate for Mayor in 2024.
I have been a proud resident of Orange for over 45 years, raising my three children, Scott, Alyssa and Blake here.
I love Orange because it has been a significant part of my life. This city has always been good to me and my family, and I have always called it home. Growing up in Orange, I felt a strong desire to give back to the community, which led me to join the NSW Police Force. My first posting was in Forbes, where I worked in General Duties and served as a Police Student Liaison Officer. I later requested a transfer back to Orange, where I took on the role of Branch Programmer at the Orange Police Community Youth Club. Following that, I returned to General Duties and also worked in a specialised unit.
I am deeply passionate about supporting our community, particularly through my long-term involvement in football (soccer). I have served as President of the Orange & District Football Association for the past 14 years and as President of the Orange Ex-Services Soccer Club for the past 29 years.
In addition to my work in sports, I have dedicated my time to supporting youth at risk, particularly in the areas of mental health and suicide prevention. I have mentored individuals facing hardship and advocated for the installation of 15 blue benches throughout Orange to raise awareness for mental health.
I have also served as President of the Orange Ratepayers Association, continuing my commitment to community service.
In 2017, I had the honour and privilege of being elected as a councilor to Orange City Council. I saw this as a chance to make a difference and help shape the future of Orange. My motivation was to create an environment where families would want to work, raise their children, and eventually retire. I focused on making Orange an attractive place for businesses to establish themselves or relocate. I genuinely care about our community and am dedicated to representing them in the best way possible.
The broad skills and experience I have gained as a councilor have enabled me to join the board of Central West BizHQ, where I help connect businesses and local government to enhance economic activity.
We acknowledge the Wiradjuri people, the traditional custodians of the land on which we live and work. We pay our respects to their Elders, past, present, and emerging, and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters, and culture. We acknowledge the important contributions that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples make to our community and commit to working together to build a better future for all.