What is your working background?
Initially I worked for the Department of Foreign Affairs directing high level courses for human resources managers from Asia, Africa, the Pacific and the Caribbean. My next role was Equal Employment Opportunity Coordinator at NSW Ministry of Education.
I left the public service to work for Westpac, managing its executive development and national communication programs.
I then established a consulting company, Executive Management Solutions, specialising in communications, change management, organisational design, executive development, and performance appraisal systems.
Its long-term clients included the Commonwealth Bank, Sydney Water, NSW Public Works and David Jones. I also undertook projects for UNESCO, Hornsby Council, Elders and Delta Electricity.
I was elected to Noosa Council in 2016 and fought to achieve improved transparency, evidence-based decision-making and a fair go for Noosa residents
Why are you running for Mayor?
I’m committed to ensuring well managed local solutions to impacts such as population growth, economic uncertainty and climate change.
An important priority is to work towards the intent of the Noosa Plan with its vision of creating a resilient community and thriving economy in harmony with the environment.
I’m concerned to see greater Council action on plans that go nowhere, greater transparency and accountability, and a more respectful culture.
What qualifies you to be Mayor?
My long managerial career and four years as a Noosa Councillor have prepared me for the role.
As a Councillor I took firm stands on important issues, weathering opposition from the then mayor and councillors. I had great community support and achieved live-streamed Council meetings and other important initiatives.
I have an MBA in Public Administration (AGSM, UNSW), a Graduate Diploma in Education (UNSW), a Bachelor of Arts (U of Alberta, Canada) and am a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Are you a member of a political party? If so, which one?
No.
What organisations in Noosa are you a member of or affiliated with?
I am a member of Noosa Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Noosa Arts & Crafts Association and Zero Emissions Noosa.
I have relinquished my management committee roles at the Noosa Chamber and Tewantin-Noosa CWA to avoid potential conflicts of interest.
If elected, will you be undertaking any other paid employment? If so, what would that be?
No.
List the four top Council issues you believe to be the most important to Noosa residents.
Council’s most recent Community Satisfaction Survey found residents continue to be dissatisfied with Council’s performance on traffic and parking, economic development and jobs, roads, and responsiveness to the community. I’m determined to address each of these and I’m committed to listening and being responsive to residents.
I want to see Council moving on plans which have been inadequately progressed, including the Transport Strategy, Economic Development Plan, gravel roads guidelines, and also the Housing Strategy, and Health and Wellbeing Plan.
