Group aims to be 'representatives not politicians'
"We will be representatives not politicians," according to Ms Lisa Bellamy, lead candidate of the Coasties Who Care group standing for Gosford West ward in the Central Coast Council elections on September 14.
She said the group comprised Ms Sarah Blakeway and Ms Tegan Mulqueeney, "local women passionate about the Central Coast and ensuring transparency in local government".
The group aimed to promote a thriving and sustainable local economy by putting locals first, she said.
Ms Bellamy said she was a long-time resident of the Central Coast with three children all born in Gosford Hospital.
She said her mother lived on the Peninsula.
An accountant, she said she served as finance manager for the University of Newcastle.
In March 2023, she ran for the NSW State Elections in the seat of Gosford, "achieving impressive results for a newcomer".
As the president of the Kariong Progress Association and a Wires wildlife rescuer, Lisa described herself as "a passionate advocate for the local community and our precious and irreplaceable bushland".
Ms Bellamy said "We need good people in council, people who will listen to locals and represent community needs, not their developer mates, or party politics.
"We are running in Gosford West ward which includes the Peninsula.
"Due to its location and with over 40,000 residents, the Peninsula is a unique part of the Coast with its own identity and requirements.
"In an ideal world, it should probably have its own local Council.
"We believe in local solutions for local issues and there are a few things we have been hearing from Peninsula residents that they'd like their new councillors to focus on.
"Number one is listening, closely followed by fixing the roads, protecting the natural environment, bringing back a Town Hall, assisting community groups who care for the elderly and most vulnerable in the area, and providing a more efficient transport service.
"These are just a few of the issues we know are facing the Peninsula and we will keep listening to what Peninsula residents want their councillors to focus on."
SOURCE:
Social media, 12 Aug 2024
Coasties Who Care