Labor today announced it would be standing candidates for both Mayor and Councillors in the upcoming Bellingen Shire Council election.
The party has selected local sports administrator Andrew Woodward as its candidate for Mayor. Mr Woodward will lead a ticket of four locals with diverse experience in business and community engagement.
Mr Woodward has had a successful and high profile career in business management in Australia and overseas. He’s also been active in developing social, economic and environmental policy at the national and state levels for over 20 years.
Recognising concern that council can be Bellingen-centric, Labor has assembled a team from the major towns and villages in the shire.
The team is:
For Mayor and Councillor: Andrew Woodward
For Councillor: Luke Barbagallo
For Councillor: Paul Hemphill
For Councillor: Paul Mulally
Eight pillars underpin Labor’s approach should it be successful at the election on 4 September 2021. Its top priority is community safety by ensuring the security of our residents, roads, rivers and forests.
Labor will revamp the council’s operations to improve community services and make the organisation people-friendly and responsive. It will also ensure the council lives within its means through sound budget management.
Labor is promising broad economic growth by creating jobs across the shire in multiple industries. It is looking to provide practical support to small businesses and farmers to help them establish, grow and market.
Central to its plan is stringent environmental protection with programs to protect and restore nature. Finally, Labor has plans to deliver critical infrastructure toimprove amenity, safety and opportunity for all.
Quotes attributable to Andrew Woodward
Bellingen Shire needs change and progress. Nothing is happening. Social, economic and environmental progress has stalled. We need to take the handbrake off.
I have the experience, credentials and commitment to deliver change. We need to prepare for the future and protect what’s important to our community.
We need new and qualified people on the council who are committed to change and progress. To continue to be a great place, Bellingen Shire must progress steadily and sensibly.
