Jake Cassar to stand for Robertson

Environmentalist and social justice campaigner Mr Jake Cassar will run as an independent candidate for the seat of Robertson in this year's Federal election.

Mr Cassar, 37, said the fact that he and his partner are expecting their first child has motivated him even more to step up to make the Central Coast a better and safer place for future generations to enjoy.

"Statistically, the Central Coast has one of the highest rates for giving to charities in the State," said Mr Cassar.

"That's something locals should all be extremely proud of and I believe that this strength is a key to moving forward as a region.

"It's this type of positive local culture that can help us to bind together to curb some of the less desirable statistics we have to tackle, such as our totally unacceptable high levels of suicide, youth unemployment, homelessness and preventable juvenile incarceration.

"Having grown up in Woy Woy, I have a real passion to see the Peninsula move forward.

"World class sustainable development and a focus on the arts, culture and entertainment, will aid in building tourism and business in general on the Central Coast.

"A thriving and ecologically sustainable tourism industry for Gosford and the Peninsula in particular, is a several fold win.

"It guarantees jobs, it helps to protect our environment by curbing mass development by defining our area as having a pristine environment and promotes a healthy outdoor local culture.

"A focus on such strengths would ensure that Coastal suburbs such as Ettalong, Umina, Pearl Beach and Patonga never become an overpopulated and overdeveloped rat race.

"The Peninsula should be internationally famous for its incredible natural beauty, not just seen as an area for the developers to make a quick buck.

"I believe many of the major issues we have, particularly with the youth in Gosford and the Peninsula, are largely due to boredom and the lack of employment opportunities.

"We really need something big to happen on the Central Coast to put us on the map, to boost our community spirit and create more local employment.

"If I am elected as our Member for Robertson, I will continue to tirelessly battle to ensure that every viable option is explored to see that Old Sydney Town is reopened.

"I would also push for nationwide and compulsory military style boot camps for troubled youth and select juvenile offenders, aimed at building resilience, self-discipline, self-esteem, preventing recidivism and anti-social behaviour.

"If I'm not elected, I will continue to do my best to promote a healthy and positive culture in our great region anyway," he said.

Mr Cassar will hold a campaign launch at the new Rhythm Hut venue at 135 Faunce St, Gosford, from 2:30pm to 3:30pm on Sunday, August 4.

There will be free live entertainment, guest speakers and a kids' bush tucker talk.

Media release, 31 Jul 2013

Jake Cassar, West Gosford