I am a long–term Mandurah resident with a vision of seeing the city grow, prosper and become more vibrant into the future.
I am a qualified accountant with more than 24 years of business experience, including 10 years as a public accountant in Mandurah. I have a Bachelor of Commerce from Curtin University and I am a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. As I have a business background, I am keen to keep the City’s finances in check.
As well as being involved in Council committees, I am also a member of the Port Mandurah Waterways Advisory committee, Peel Thunder Football Club’s finance committee and the Disciplinary Tribunal – Institute of Public Accountants.
I am on the board of the WA Local Government Women’s Association, a role I take very seriously as I believe it is important to mentor other women looking to get into local government. Women may face time issues, family responsibilities or self esteem issues, but it is important they are encouraged to explore their capabilities. I would encourage all females to look into getting into local government.
I have been on the City of Mandurah Council for just over two years, and decided to get involved in local government as I wanted to give back to the community. Mandurah has provided so many wonderful opportunities for me, including lifestyle, employment and a great place to raise my family, so I wanted to give something back.
Mandurah is a great city with beaches and waterways, recreation opportunities and entertainment all at your doorstep. We have more than 50kms of coastline to enjoy, which brings many leisure pursuits such as fishing, crabbing, swimming and diving. What once was a quiet town has become a vibrant city which is now home to more than 75,000 people, and we still remain one of the fastest-growing regional councils in Australia.
I am committed to improving the quality of health care for the aged, and I believe this is one of the key challenges facing the area. I am also passionate about the Central Business District’s business development, creating meaningful employment opportunities, the environmental and recreational issues facing the local waterways and reducing crime and antisocial behaviour.
The hardest thing I’ve had to adjust to since becoming Mayor is the public speaking. I’m new to the role, so I have lots to learn, including the balance between home life and being the Mayor of a wonderful city.
I think the key aspects of being a good Mayor are to listen to the community and to be fair but firm. The best advice I’ve received so far is to just breathe, be prepared and to take some time out for myself, as it’s a big job.
I hope to leave a lasting impression on the community, including facilitating growth and seeing Mandurah become more of a business hub. Outside of Council duties, I enjoy golf, walking my dog Molly and diving in the local waterways. The three qualities I appreciate the most in people are honesty, integrity and fairness.
