Issue 44 | Thursday October 3, 2024
All things Mt Evelyn!
In This Issue
Community Calendar
Candidate Introductions
- Billanook Ward
- Chandler Ward
Mt Evelyn in the News
Community Calendar
~ THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3 ~
Pathway for Carers Walk
9:30am
Mt Evelyn Community House, 50 Wray Cres
King's Kitchen, free community dinner
6pm
Mt Evelyn Christian Reformed Church, 45-47 Birmingham Rd
~ TUESDAY, OCTOBER 8 ~
Bookaburra
9:30am - 10:15am
Mt Evelyn Reading Room, 50 Wray Cres
Tech Support
1pm 2pm, 3pm
Mt Evelyn Reading Room, 50 Wray Cres
Bookings required: 9736 1177
Social Scrabble
1:30pm start
Mt Evelyn Community House, 50 Wray Cres
Please RSVP: 9736 1177
~ WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 9 ~
Mother Runner Club Run
9:30am
Trail Cafe, 1/4 Clancy Road.
~ THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10 ~
Food Relief
12pm - 6pm
Discovery Community Care, 87 Monbulk Rd
King's Kitchen, free community dinner
6pm
Mt Evelyn Christian Reformed Church, 45-47 Birmingham Rd
Candidate Introductions
We asked the candidates from the upcoming election from the Wards of Billanook and Chandler to introduce themselves to the Mt Evelyn community.
Below are their responses, in order of how they will appear on the ballot forms.
Billanook Ward
Wendy Wright
My name is Wendy Wright. I grew up in the Yarra Ranges and have lived in Billanook Ward with my husband for more than 30 years, raising a family and running a business.
I’m running as the candidate for the Billanook Ward in Yarra Ranges Council to make a real difference.
My priority is to advocate for council spending that is transparent, responsible, sustainable, and continues to deliver essential services for its residents. I’m here to ease the financial pressures on residents, not add to them.
The principles I stand for include :
Back to Basics
Transparent Local Government
Cost of Living relief
Listening to the Community
I’m asking for your vote to represent you, to fight for lower costs, practical solutions, and greater transparency. When elected, I want to work with the other elected councillors to create a shire that current and future generations can be proud of.
Tim Heenan
Hi I'm Tim Heenan, I've lived in Mt Evelyn since 1986 and raised my family and my children have attended local schools. I have run a small business for some years and been involved in many of the Mt Evelyn community, sport and environment groups. I have been the Councillor for Billanook for 15 years, Mayor for two terms from 2006 to 2008, and Deputy Mayor for one term.
I have always been connected to Mt Evelyn community in so many ways. I have spoken to hundreds of people over all the years of living here and believe I completely understand their views and what they expect of me.
I have voted against rate rises for the last four years, and will continue to do so. I have concentrated on infrastructure as Mt Evelyn was poorly lacking when I came to Council in 2005.
We have better footpaths, better lighting, better seating, upgrade of our parks and walking trails, and a brand new football netball Community Pavilion.
If reelected I will continue to concentrate on the important grassroots issues in Council. for you.
Chandler Ward
Belinda Grooby
Withdrawn (statement can be read in M.E. & You issue 43)
Ashley Hansen
My name is Ashley Hansen, I live in the Shire and I am seeking your assistance in my quest to become a Councillor to represent you and your families at Council, I am married and have two grown children.
I have worked in Local Government since 1983. Prior to commencing my career in Local Government I worked as a Carpenter. I am a Qualified Building Surveyor and Town Planner.
I am well placed to represent you as I am very familiar with Local Government and how it works. I will get results for you.
I will listen to the Community and act on your behalf and hold Council accountable for its decisions.
I also know that if elected as a Councillor I will do my very best to ensure you have a voice in Council, I will represent all the residents within the Chandler Ward to the best of my ability.
I understand the frustration and costs when permits take too long, I understand that “time is money” when there are unnecessary delays, I will try and cut the time, within legislation when trying to get permits through and advocate for a sustainable and consistent approach for all Council services. I will listen to you as the Ratepayers and Represent you at Council Level. Thankyou for the opportunity to represent you.
Gareth Ward
As a local small business owner living and working in Chandler Ward, I am deeply passionate about our community and committed to making a positive difference. My inspiration to run for council stems from this passion, which previously motivated me to stand as a candidate in the 2022 state election. My values are rooted in common sense, financial responsibility, and easing the cost of living burden for our residents. As a family man, I am dedicated to ensuring that Chandler Ward remains a great place to live for all families.
My vision for the council position is focused around transparent, hassle-free governance and returning the council to its core responsibilities. I believe that residents should have easy access to assistance and that we must control overspending to allocate funds effectively for infrastructure maintenance and improvements. Protecting our natural beauty by maintaining a pristine and well-kept environment is a priority, as is improving liveability through better access to digital services and enhancing disaster resilience.
Maintaining our roads and infrastructure is essential for our community's functionality and safety. Additionally, I am committed to growing our available health services to ensure that all residents have the support they need.
By focusing on these key areas, I aim to create a more efficient, responsive, and accountable council that truly serves the needs of Yarra Ranges residents. I am dedicated to making our community a better place for everyone, and I am confident that, with the support of my community, we can achieve this vision together.
Mt Evelyn in the News
Voices for Casey’s Listening Campaign Report released
Star Mail
https://ferntreegully.mailcommunity.com.au/news/2024-09-30/voices-for-caseys-listening-campaign-report-released/
Belief leads to first ever exhibition
Star Mail
https://ferntreegully.mailcommunity.com.au/entertainment/2024-09-30/belief-leads-to-first-ever-exhibition/