Nominations for the Maroondah Council elections have now closed and there are a total of eight candidates contesting Loughnan’s Hill Ward. Candidate positions on the ballot paper are allocated randomly via a lottery draw and I will be located fifth on the ballot sheet.

With a total of eight candidates the election will be a definite challenge. Questions must be asked, however about what appears to be a prolific use of ‘dummy candidates’ or ‘running mates’ within the ward.

The use of ‘dummy candidates’ who exist solely to boost the preferences of another candidate is not a practice that should be undertaken within a democratic society or local government.

I pledge above all to genuinely represent the interests of the people of Loughnan’s Hill Ward and the wider Maroondah municipality. I thank everyone so far for their support and taking the time to discuss their concerns with me.

I look forward to the possibility of acting upon these concerns if elected onto Maroondah Council.