Preferences open up contests

A CLEAR divide has opened up between existing and wannabe councillors standing for at least two wards at this month’s City of Greater Bendigo council elections.

The candidates’ statements and preference indications have been released, and some of the outcomes are surprising.

See preferences and candidates' statements below thanks to www.vec.vic.gov.au

In two of the three new wards, the current sitting councillors have all preferenced each other.

That show of solidarity relies on each councillor receiving enough first preference votes to ensure they don’t have to rely on preferences to be elected.

While such a strategy is likely to work for Lisa Ruffell and Peter Cox in Whipstick Ward, it could backfire for other councillors in the other two wards.

In the Lockwood Ward, councillors Bruce Phillips, Barry Lyons and Rod Fyffe have all preferenced each other in their top three.

Karen Corr is the big threat to the sitting councillors if voters follow the preference cards, as she has attracted strong preference support from the other three candidates – Karel Zegers, Elise Chapman and Wendy Radford –who are likely to be first three eliminated.

If Ms Radford gets a large amount of votes, it could see Ms Corr elected.

See preferences and candidates' statements below thanks to www.vec.vic.gov.au  

The Eppalock Ward is very open, with preferences pointing to a strong performance from Mark Weragoda and Wayne McKay.

The pair have received second and third preferences from former mayor Rod Campbell, as well as a raft of other candidates.

If preferences do not leak, and the vote goes as expected, it is likely Mr Weragoda and Mr McKay will be elected.

The rest of the field is open slather, with preference deals all over the place.

If there was likely to be a ward where dummy candidates would make a difference it would be in the Eppalock Ward, with so many candidates.

However, the lack of a clear preference pattern, despite the obvious minor philosophical affiliation, is evidence no dummies are running.

Candidate statements for Greater Bendigo City Council 2012 Elections

Eppalock Ward (3 vacancies)

CAMPBELL, Rod

As the Eppalock Ward Councillor for the past four years and as Mayor in 2009/2010, I have no political affiliations or secret agendas. My wife Alison and I raised a family in Bendigo during the past 28 years. A retired civil engineer with considerable experience in both local government and private practice, I possess an extensive knowledge of urban and rural communities involving development and planning, design and road construction, buildings and sporting infrastructure. We need a vibrant municipality providing improved core services, strong economic development and employment opportunities. High priorities include the integrated transport and land use strategy, waste management, provision for the aged and disabled, sustainability and providing sensibly for population growth, whilst enhancing the arts, heritage and lifestyle advantages associated with our region. I support strengthening engagement practices with meaningful feedback to residents. For diligent, common sense and thorough representation, Vote 1, Rod Campbell ph. 54437952.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
1 CAMPBELL, Rod
2 WERAGODA, Mark
3 McKAY, Wayne
4 SANDNER, Alec
5 LEACH, Helen
6 POLONIATO, Julian
7 BARDSLEY, Tim
8 FLACK, George
9 FRASER, Stuart

WERAGODA, Mark

I am passionate about Bendigo and feel I can provide an invaluable link between community and Council. As a local businessman of 23 years, I have seen Bendigo grow from a great town to the fabulous city it is today. In my everyday interactions with business and community members, I hear common threads that I feel are key elements in the growth and development of the City. Some great foundational work has already been done, and I strongly believe in a balanced development between community, business and recreation to ensure a positive outcome for the Eppalock Ward and greater Bendigo. The issues I am passionate about addressing include; improving public transport, high density inner city living, and sensible urban development balanced with environmental sustainability. Equally important is the strategic development of tourism, industry growth, employment and developing Bendigo towards the aspirations of the community.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
6 CAMPBELL, Rod
1 WERAGODA, Mark
2 McKAY, Wayne
5 SANDNER, Alec
4 LEACH, Helen
9 POLONIATO, Julian
8 BARDSLEY, Tim
3 FLACK, George
7 FRASER, Stuart

McKAY, Wayne

Do you want effective representation, appropriate use of your money, professionalism and working for the community's best interest? Then, have your say, vote Wayne McKay. The Bendigo region has fantastic potential and growth opportunities. It's expanding and developing and I want to ensure its true potential is achieved while maintaining its rural character and charm. I have broad experience in engineering and business management. My wife and I currently own and operate Heathcote Newsagency. I bring with me the ability to listen, understand, represent and deliver on your behalf. We need open communication in conjunction with financial transparency, this is critical to the success of any council. I will continually be available to seek your views and opinions so we together can improve our ward. The council needs to become a dynamic team delivering results on your behalf. Your vote will make this happen, that's my pledge to you. www.waynemckay.com.au

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
6 CAMPBELL, Rod
2 WERAGODA, Mark
1 McKAY, Wayne
5 SANDNER, Alec
4 LEACH, Helen
8 POLONIATO, Julian
9 BARDSLEY, Tim
3 FLACK, George
7 FRASER, Stuart

SANDNER, Alec

You elected Alec Sandner in 2008 when voters rejected the councillors who imposed a concrete paved Hargreaves Mall on us. I am a qualified Accountant and Property Investment Advisor. In my time as your councillor I have worked to create a sustainable and liveable Region and in 2012 I served as your Mayor. In today's environment you must be represented by councillors with sound business management experience who are prepared to make good, sound and sensible decisions. I have done that. When re-elected as your Eppalock Ward Councillor, I will advocate for a logical transport system linked to land use; a Heathcote transport action group; completion of the Barrack Reserve; master plans for Axedale, Mia Mia and Redesdale; an Aquatic Centre at Kangaroo Flat; upgrading of the Bendigo Aerodrome; an Equestrian Centre at Strathfieldsaye. Keep our Region as the best place to live, work and visit. Vote Alec Sandner 1.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
3 CAMPBELL, Rod
4 WERAGODA, Mark
5 McKAY, Wayne
1 SANDNER, Alec
2 LEACH, Helen
9 POLONIATO, Julian
8 BARDSLEY, Tim
7 FLACK, George
6 FRASER, Stuart

LEACH, Helen

I am a country person born and bred; my father was a small businessman, heavily involved in primary industry and transport. I am a wife, mother and grandmother; I have been a partner in business, carer and Registered Nurse. As an active and passionate member of our Bendigo community, I know the priority of a councillor of Bendigo must be to work for the useful service to ratepayers; to achieve our goals for the future and ensure that our city is not only regional Victoria's No 1 city, but the leader in regional Australia for innovation, achievement and success. I believe that all areas of our Rural City deserve equal treatment. I believe that a better and fairer landfill fee system should be implemented and hard rubbish collections be introduced. I also believe that Council should be transparent and more open to ratepayers' scrutiny. Vote 1 Helen Leach for Eppalock.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
7 CAMPBELL, Rod
5 WERAGODA, Mark
2 McKAY, Wayne
4 SANDNER, Alec
1 LEACH, Helen
6 POLONIATO, Julian
9 BARDSLEY, Tim
3 FLACK, George
8 FRASER, Stuart

POLONIATO, Julian

Rates to not exceed CPI increases. Like the recently completed multistorey car park, any future capital works of dubious community benefit should not be financed, by ratepayers' money. Councillors should be better informed about Res Code regulations. When considering approval for residential developments, it would be better to strictly adhere to all Res Code regulations. The library in Hargreaves street was functioning perfectly well. The upgrade is an unnecessary waste of public money. A proposed dewatering of Central Deborah in the near future should not go ahead. Mine water has high arsenic content. It requires, eventually purification by reverse osmosis, a very costly process consuming large amounts of electricity that will require substantial financial subsidies. There will also be an ongoing problem of disposal of a residual waste stream.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
4 CAMPBELL, Rod
8 WERAGODA, Mark
9 McKAY, Wayne
5 SANDNER, Alec
6 LEACH, Helen
1 POLONIATO, Julian
2 BARDSLEY, Tim
7 FLACK, George
3 FRASER, Stuart

BARDSLEY, Tim

As a resident of Eppalock ward, and the endorsed Greens candidate, if elected I will stand up for: genuine community consultation on development; accountability for financial management including a comprehensive independent financial review of council; improved public transport; an excellent network of bike paths; preserving Bendigo's beautiful bush; enhancing open space, parklands and heritage values; a sustainable waste strategy; energy efficiency and renewable energy projects; and a better deal for outlying towns. I love Bendigo and all it has to offer, which is why I returned to live here seven years ago with my partner and three children, after completing my undergraduate degree at La Trobe Bendigo. I was a public school teacher for 9 years and now work in the community welfare sector. I am interested in the concerns of the electorate and want to help make this an even better place to live.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
6 CAMPBELL, Rod
2 WERAGODA, Mark
7 McKAY, Wayne
8 SANDNER, Alec
9 LEACH, Helen
3 POLONIATO, Julian
1 BARDSLEY, Tim
5 FLACK, George
4 FRASER, Stuart

FLACK, George

Bendigo needs a transparent, accountable and responsive council. A council that will focus on residents and support industries to value-add and create high-skilled employment opportunities. Budget blowouts, costly CBD projects, spiralling superannuation and staff costs can mean less infrastructure and services for suburbs and rural areas, crumbling roads and increased rates. An independent Review of council is essential to increase productivity, better utilise council staff without calling in expensive consultants, helping to give rate relief to the ratepayers. Bendigo born and educated, I am a local businessman with forty years financial services experience, and winner of Australia's Financial Planner of the Year twice. In the community, I am a long-time member of Marist Brothers Band and CFA, involved in athletics and charity work, and was honoured to be named our City's 2000 Citizen of the Year. An experienced businessman, and passionate about our communities - I'll listen, I'll act.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
8 CAMPBELL, Rod
4 WERAGODA, Mark
2 McKAY, Wayne
5 SANDNER, Alec
3 LEACH, Helen
6 POLONIATO, Julian
9 BARDSLEY, Tim
1 FLACK, George
7 FRASER, Stuart

FRASER, Stuart

I have lived most of my life in Bendigo and spent my entire working life in agriculture as a commercial beekeeper. Having experienced both country and city I feel that I can bring a balance between the sometimes competing interests that are brought about by Bendigo's geographic, environmental, social and economic interests. Bendigo is about to review its residential strategy and I will work towards a compact city as I believe it will make the servicing of infrastructure, such as an integrated transport system, more efficient and cost effective, and reduce the pressure on the natural environment. I will advocate for an independent and open review of the city and its finances that is able to inform the people of Bendigo. If elected I would endeavour to be open and transparent with people and work to increase the liveability of the City of Greater Bendigo.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
6 CAMPBELL, Rod
7 WERAGODA, Mark
8 McKAY, Wayne
9 SANDNER, Alec
5 LEACH, Helen
4 POLONIATO, Julian
2 BARDSLEY, Tim
3 FLACK, George
1 FRASER, Stuart

Lockwood Ward (3 vacancies)

CHAPMAN, Elise

The time for real change is now. Like you I am a resident of our ward. I am dissatisfied with the performance of council and how it spends our ratepayer dollars. We need to better support our Lockwood ward people, families, communities, local businesses, clubs and organisations. I pledge to hold regular ward meetings where you can have your say. I pledge to be accountable and approachable, working to deliver projects on time and on budget. I will work to make council more efficient, effective and economic in all it does. I will not support a rate increase next year. I will support an external review of council. I love our ward and want to see it prosper. With 16 years experience in business, sharp negotiation and mediation skills I would be honoured to be your voice. Vote 1 Elise Chapman, for real representation and a fair go for everyone.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
1 CHAPMAN, Elise
7 PHILLIPS, Bruce
2 ZEGERS, Karel
5 LYONS, Barry
4 RADFORD, Wendy
6 FYFFE, Rod
3 CORR, Karen

PHILLIPS, Bruce

I live at Maiden Gully, been a Bendigo resident for 22 years, and, operate businesses, at Maiden Gully and Strathfieldsaye. I am a civil and municipal engineer, with an MBA. I previously managed major road projects throughout Victoria and held executive positions with the State Government. I have served as a Bendigo City Councillor for a total of 5 years in the former Grassy Flat and North West Plains Wards. I have been Chairman of the Calder Highway Improvement Committee, and Regional Library Board and also served on committees concerned with Regional Planning, Art Gallery, Exhibition Centre, Rotary, Jaycees, Pre-school, Scouts, and sporting clubs. I have the knowledge, experience, and time necessary to assist residents with issues and will press for road and drainage improvements, needed facilities and services, and sustainable progress and development

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
6 CHAPMAN, Elise
1 PHILLIPS, Bruce
7 ZEGERS, Karel
2 LYONS, Barry
5 RADFORD, Wendy
3 FYFFE, Rod
4 CORR, Karen

ZEGERS, Karel

The way Bendigo Council has managed your money is unacceptable. During previous Council elections, I expressed concerns about soaring Council rates increases. In 4 years, rates increased 21% and Council's borrowings rose over 150%, (to $24 Million) mainly to support CBD projects, and are budgeted to increase! Council is not run efficiently or economically. If we ran our households or businesses similarly we'd be broke. The never-ending rate rises must stop. Elect councillors who will halt this trend. An external Review of the Council must be undertaken to give councillors and ratepayers independent advice. Other Councils have shown that savings, efficiencies and improvements are possible. The use of our rates money must be better balanced to serve your interests. I will hold regular meetings where you can express your concerns. I seek your support to achieve this in collaboration with other councillors who put you and your needs first.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
2 CHAPMAN, Elise
7 PHILLIPS, Bruce
1 ZEGERS, Karel
6 LYONS, Barry
4 RADFORD, Wendy
5 FYFFE, Rod
3 CORR, Karen

LYONS, Barry

I am a long term resident of Bendigo and have been Ward Councillor for Kangaroo Flat for the past 4 years. My wife Betty and I have 5 children and have enjoyed 30 years living in the area and have been involved in the Hotel Industry (Winderemere) for that period. I have also been involved in Sporting Clubs, Health Groups, Lions and others both as a member or sponsor. I believe our Council has performed responsibly and in the best interests of the Rate Payers for the term I have been a Councillor. I am a strong believer in making no-nonsense common sense decisions that gives everybody a fair go, that also improves the community generally for the long term future. I hope to again have the honour of representing you as a Lockwood Ward Councillor for the next 4 years. Vote 1 for Barry Lyons.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
4 CHAPMAN, Elise
3 PHILLIPS, Bruce
5 ZEGERS, Karel
1 LYONS, Barry
6 RADFORD, Wendy
2 FYFFE, Rod
7 CORR, Karen

RADFORD, Wendy

As a rural resident of Lockwood ward, retired small business manager, and endorsed Greens candidate, if elected you can rely on me to promote protection of native vegetation and amenity, and maintenance of our irreplaceable biodiversity; construction of a state of the art Aquatic and fitness centre at Kangaroo Flat with a 50 metre pool, heated in winter; improved public transport; an excellent network of bike paths; fairer allocation of services and infrastructure in outlying suburbs and towns; a comprehensive independent financial review of council; sustainable waste strategy; accountability and transparency; responsible development, not open slather for the benefit of the few. My record of voluntary community engagement shows that I work cooperatively with people from all political persuasions. I have been Convenor of Bushlinks (10 years), Community Representative, City of Greater Bendigo Natural Environment Advisory Committee ( 8 years), spokesperson for Liveable Bendigo and Convenor, Bendigo Family Nature Club.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
3 CHAPMAN, Elise
5 PHILLIPS, Bruce
6 ZEGERS, Karel
7 LYONS, Barry
1 RADFORD, Wendy
4 FYFFE, Rod
2 CORR, Karen

FYFFE, Rod

As a passionate, committed and experienced candidate, if elected I will work very hard to continue to listen to the community; deliver an iconic indoor aquatic centre at Kangaroo Flat for the whole community; more footpaths in the ward to let residents safely access shops and bus stops; deliver drainage upgrades and better road maintenance; advocate for better and safer linkages in Maiden Gully and to allow easier access to the Calder. Recreational facilities need to be upgraded throughout the ward to encourage community participation. Maximizing job opportunities; a visionary transport plan, and a well developed residential strategy that encourages our community to thrive are also needed. Rate rises must be kept to an absolute minimum, and efficiences and productivity in service delivery is critical. Previously I have supported a new pavillion in Mandurang; designs for the indoor aquatic facility; improved drainage; local Masterplan delivery, and sensible housing development.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
6 CHAPMAN, Elise
2 PHILLIPS, Bruce
7 ZEGERS, Karel
3 LYONS, Barry
5 RADFORD, Wendy
1 FYFFE, Rod
4 CORR, Karen

CORR, Karen

I have degrees in engineering and science and spent 10 years working for a large organisation in water resources, flooding and project management. I have experience in governance, small business and community development. I've started and implemented many successful innovative community initiatives and have a strong focus on engaging and working with people. My husband and I are active community members, involved in the Golden Square CFA, Bendigo Community Farmers Market and Bendigo Sustainability Group. Our children attend school in Quarry Hill. I am dedicated to cultivating responsible financial management, promoting proper consultation on issues that affect local residents, developing an effective transport system that suits all our needs, supporting and encouraging local business opportunities and maintaining our rural and community feel as Bendigo grows. I'm passionate about building a healthy, liveable and vibrant city. It's time for new energy and fresh ideas on Council. Vote 1 Karen Corr.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
2 CHAPMAN, Elise
7 PHILLIPS, Bruce
3 ZEGERS, Karel
6 LYONS, Barry
4 RADFORD, Wendy
5 FYFFE, Rod
1 CORR, Karen

Whipstick Ward (3 vacancies)

RUFFELL, Lisa

I've lived, operated businesses and raised a family in Bendigo for 31years. I'm an active, committed community member. I stand on values of honesty and transparency. An accountable council is a productive council. I've a proven work ethic and history of striving for the truth. I'm a passionate councillor who beliieves residents' views are important, and actionable. A sustainable future depends on postive forward planning. Rapid growth demands suburbs and rural areas have safe roads, drains, footpaths and effective public transport. I believe we need to refocus and priorities towards local community based infrastructure before major CBD based projects.Council must improve relationships with local industry to expand our local economy and job opportunities. Rate increases need to be realistic. Independant Council reviews are essential to provide councillors and the community with realistic and transparent recommendations to ensure Council accountability. Fair representation for all. 0422445605. I'll be your voice.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
1 RUFFELL, Lisa
4 MITCHELL-SHARP, Jennifer J.
3 WILLIAMS, James
2 COX, Peter
5 HARRINGTON, Elaine

MITCHELL-SHARP, Jennifer J.

I have been living in Bendigo and district since 1963. I played netball for Newbridge in the Loddon Valley League. I was educated at Golden Square High School. In 1975, I trained at the Home and Hospital for the Aged, now the Anne Caudle centre, as a State Enrolled Nurse. I worked for 8 years in Bendigo and all around Melbourne. I have been a supporter for Scope over the years. I attended Bendigo Regional Institute of Tafe completing an Art and Design course in 1984. I was elected Student Rep. on the College Council. I am a member of the Bendigo Goldfields Bush Poets. I have written a book of poetry. I have been volunteering my time as an Advocate for people who are Mentally Challenged, in Bendigo's Community. I have many creative solutions and ideas for Bendigo's City Council, having walked, studying Bendigo's backyard for many years.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
4 RUFFELL, Lisa
1 MITCHELL-SHARP, Jennifer J.
5 WILLIAMS, James
3 COX, Peter
2 HARRINGTON, Elaine

WILLIAMS, James

I am currently a board member of the NCCMA, Greater City of Bendigo rural consultative and rural wellbeing committee member and former Shire of Huntly councillor. My vision is to share the growth and wellbeing of the region throughout to the benefit of all. I support an integrated growth strategy providing infrastructure for our small country towns and Eaglehawk, including a train running fulltime between Bendigo and Echuca. Building apartments in the CBD where appropriate and above the many shops to revitilise and reintroduce people to the area. Epsom and Huntly's flooding and drainage issues necessitate funds are committed to fix these problems. A ring road is essential for futute traffic requirements to negotiate the city safely. Parks, gardens and open spaces, along with walking and cycling tracks are priorities needing development. Sustainability and recycling are continuing issues which need to be addressed. Vote for a new voice on council.

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
3 RUFFELL, Lisa
5 MITCHELL-SHARP, Jennifer J.
1 WILLIAMS, James
2 COX, Peter
4 HARRINGTON, Elaine

COX, Peter

I have strongly advocated for residents over the past four years as Councillor for Eaglehawk Ward and I am now standing for the newly formed Whipstick Ward. I work for Future Employment Opportunities. I am Secretary of Community Recycling Network Australia and tertiary qualified in community development. I have a track record of listening to and acting on what people have to say. I will advocate for an independent public review of Council's operations, a maximum annual cap on rates of 4%, protection of the municipality's heritage, history and natural vegetation, drainage projects throughout the Whipstick Ward, efficient public transport, further development of the Botanical and Canterbury Gardens, protection of Rosalind Park and advance a variety of recreational projects. There needs to be reviews of Council's economic development strategy to create more jobs, Bendigo CBD Plan, high cost of waste and Eaglehawk's Library Service. Please contact me! 5446 1274, pc@feo.net.au

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
2 RUFFELL, Lisa
4 MITCHELL-SHARP, Jennifer J.
3 WILLIAMS, James
1 COX, Peter
5 HARRINGTON, Elaine

HARRINGTON, Elaine

Having grown up in the dynamic environment of Greater Bendigo, along with raising my children here, I have a huge interest in the community and local government. This has contributed to my ongoing involvement in a diverse range of local organisations. I am a Legal Administration Worker and former Greater Bendigo Councillor therefore possess full knowledge of the immense amount of work that the position demands. You will find no stronger advocate with a commitment to represent residents of the Whipstick Ward. Improvements to essential services; water, sewerage and natural gas infrastructure still need to be connected to some localities. The environment, social equity (equal rights/welfare), heritage, sustainable and economic development are all areas that need to be balanced strategically. Combined they are our way forward into the future for a liveable municipality. If you have any questions I warmly welcome you to contact me on; 0408 304 742 or harringtonelaineONE@hotmail.com

Candidate's Indication of Preferences:
4 RUFFELL, Lisa
2 MITCHELL-SHARP, Jennifer J.
3 WILLIAMS, James
5 COX, Peter
1 HARRINGTON, Elaine