Voting closes today at 5pm.
It has been a really fun campaign and I look forward to seeing who gets in on Sunday.
My biggest thanks must go to my ever-supportive wife Kythera and kids Ophelia and Jonas, as well as my running mate Les Mallett and campaign manager Dee-Ann Kelly.
I'd also like to thank those in the Greens Frankston branch that helped out and anyone who helped out with letterboxing, etc - especially Steph, Peta, Kath, Gillian and Alan.
Thanks also to those who e-mailed and showed support and challenged my ideas!
Friday, November 28, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Frankston Independent, final week of campaign
From http://frankston.yourguide.com.au/news/local/news/general/council-urged-to-save-abc-centres/1369431.aspx
GREENS candidates are urging the incoming Frankston Council to take over the city's 11 ABC Learning Centres after the Federal Government was forced to temporarily bail out the child-care giant.
South-West Ward's Jaymz Stevens and North-West Ward's Les Mallett say the council should be working with the Government to find a solution to the crisis that could see thousands of families without access when the interim package expires.
The Government and creditors have agreed to fund ABC Learning's 1040 child-care centres until December 31.
The council has been divesting itself of child-care and aged-care facilities in recent years, having sold its Milpara Park nursing home last year and closing the Amaroo child-care centre this year.
Its two remaining child-care providers, Candlebark and Lakewood, are widely considered industry leaders.
The Greens say councils should increase their role in children's services including child care, rather than spending money on the St Kilda Football Club relocation or the proposed marina.
"If the choice is between losing these services, or transferring them at no capital cost to council, then it is only right that council should explore this option," Mr Stevens said.
"The council manages two long-day care centres and could assess the cost of picking up the operational costs of the 11 ABC Learning Centres in the municipality and request Government assistance to transfer the centres to Frankston Council.
"In my view it would be much better to invest in Frankston's children than an AFL club or a marina to service the small minority of boat owners who want wet berthing facilities," he said.
Mr Mallett said it was not beyond the council's capabilities to provide child care with the support of the Government.
"Frankston Council can offer a sustainable model for the delivery of child care and one that is committed to high quality, accessible and affordable care for all," Mr Mallett said.
"They would be understandably nervous about bearing the cost of child care, so Federal Government support should be forthcoming to encourage council to extend their services into child care where possible."
GREENS candidates are urging the incoming Frankston Council to take over the city's 11 ABC Learning Centres after the Federal Government was forced to temporarily bail out the child-care giant.
South-West Ward's Jaymz Stevens and North-West Ward's Les Mallett say the council should be working with the Government to find a solution to the crisis that could see thousands of families without access when the interim package expires.
The Government and creditors have agreed to fund ABC Learning's 1040 child-care centres until December 31.
The council has been divesting itself of child-care and aged-care facilities in recent years, having sold its Milpara Park nursing home last year and closing the Amaroo child-care centre this year.
Its two remaining child-care providers, Candlebark and Lakewood, are widely considered industry leaders.
The Greens say councils should increase their role in children's services including child care, rather than spending money on the St Kilda Football Club relocation or the proposed marina.
"If the choice is between losing these services, or transferring them at no capital cost to council, then it is only right that council should explore this option," Mr Stevens said.
"The council manages two long-day care centres and could assess the cost of picking up the operational costs of the 11 ABC Learning Centres in the municipality and request Government assistance to transfer the centres to Frankston Council.
"In my view it would be much better to invest in Frankston's children than an AFL club or a marina to service the small minority of boat owners who want wet berthing facilities," he said.
Mr Mallett said it was not beyond the council's capabilities to provide child care with the support of the Government.
"Frankston Council can offer a sustainable model for the delivery of child care and one that is committed to high quality, accessible and affordable care for all," Mr Mallett said.
"They would be understandably nervous about bearing the cost of child care, so Federal Government support should be forthcoming to encourage council to extend their services into child care where possible."
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Another idea!
An idea suggested by a resident which I'm very fond of is the concept of creating a shop as an outreach program to help young people attain Open University degrees. Frankston City has one of the lowest rates of tertiary education in Australia, and an outreach program could change that and reverse the cycle, so to speak. Grants could be available for people wishing to take the STAT exam (which gives you the ability to aim for a University course if you are mature-aged or just an early school-leaver) and computers and tutors could be provided for assistance with assignments.
Just another idea from one of the great Frankston residents! Keep them coming!
Just another idea from one of the great Frankston residents! Keep them coming!
Friday, November 21, 2008
Important Voting Info
By now, you should have received your voting pack. If, for some strange reason, you have not received a reply paid envelope in their voting pack they can phone the Frankston branch of the Victorian Electoral Commission on 9770 5020 and be given a reply-paid address so you will not incur a cost for returning their ballot.
Good luck with your voting. Remember that your ballot must be received by 5pm, Friday 28th November. That means that you should send your ballot pack in by close of business Wednesday.
Results should be released for the South West Ward at around 4pm on Sunday 30th November.
Good luck with your voting. Remember that your ballot must be received by 5pm, Friday 28th November. That means that you should send your ballot pack in by close of business Wednesday.
Results should be released for the South West Ward at around 4pm on Sunday 30th November.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
ABC Childcare should be put into the hands of Council - press release
Two local government candidates have called for Frankston City Council to take over the operational costs of local ABC Learning Childcare Centres, in the wake of the company’s recent liquidation and subsequent Federal funding.
Frankston City Council’s GREENS candidates, South West Ward’s JAYMZ STEVENS and North West Ward’s LES MALLETT have called on Council to work with the Federal Government to explore the possibility of integrating the many ABC Learning childcare centres in Frankston into Council’s children’s services.
“If the choice is between losing these services, or transferring them at no capital cost to Council, then it is only right that Council should explore this option. Frankston City Council currently manages two long day care centres and could assess the cost of picking up the operational costs of the seven ABC Learning Centres in the municipality and request federal government assistance to transfer the centres to Frankston City Council,” Mr Stevens said.
“Local governments play a vital role in the delivery of children’s services – from maternal and child health care to kindergarten programs. Long day care, occasional care and family day care are also delivered by Frankston City Council and the services are of an exceptionally high quality,” agreed fellow Greens candidate for North West Ward, Les Mallett.
“Local governments need to be included in discussions with the federal government about the future of ABC Childcare Centres in their municipality. Frankston City Council can offer a sustainable model for the delivery of childcare and one that is committed to high quality, accessible and affordable care for all,” said Mr Stevens.
As the federal government looks for solutions to ABC’s collapse, the Greens candidates believe that it could explore the relationship that local government has with children’s services and talk to Councils about supporting their role in the delivery of childcare. Council would be understandably nervous about bearing the cost of childcare, so federal government support should be forthcoming to encourage Council to extend their services into childcare where possible.
“Having a young family myself,” said Mr Stevens, “I strongly believe that we need to maintain and extend sustainable models of childcare provision. After all, childcare is just that – the care of our children. It’s too important to ignore.”
Frankston City Council’s GREENS candidates, South West Ward’s JAYMZ STEVENS and North West Ward’s LES MALLETT have called on Council to work with the Federal Government to explore the possibility of integrating the many ABC Learning childcare centres in Frankston into Council’s children’s services.
“If the choice is between losing these services, or transferring them at no capital cost to Council, then it is only right that Council should explore this option. Frankston City Council currently manages two long day care centres and could assess the cost of picking up the operational costs of the seven ABC Learning Centres in the municipality and request federal government assistance to transfer the centres to Frankston City Council,” Mr Stevens said.
“Local governments play a vital role in the delivery of children’s services – from maternal and child health care to kindergarten programs. Long day care, occasional care and family day care are also delivered by Frankston City Council and the services are of an exceptionally high quality,” agreed fellow Greens candidate for North West Ward, Les Mallett.
“Local governments need to be included in discussions with the federal government about the future of ABC Childcare Centres in their municipality. Frankston City Council can offer a sustainable model for the delivery of childcare and one that is committed to high quality, accessible and affordable care for all,” said Mr Stevens.
As the federal government looks for solutions to ABC’s collapse, the Greens candidates believe that it could explore the relationship that local government has with children’s services and talk to Councils about supporting their role in the delivery of childcare. Council would be understandably nervous about bearing the cost of childcare, so federal government support should be forthcoming to encourage Council to extend their services into childcare where possible.
“Having a young family myself,” said Mr Stevens, “I strongly believe that we need to maintain and extend sustainable models of childcare provision. After all, childcare is just that – the care of our children. It’s too important to ignore.”
Sunday, November 16, 2008
EES Press Release
The GREENS candidates in the upcoming Frankston Council elections, South-West Ward’s JAYMZ STEVENS and North-West Ward’s LES MALLETT, along with the Greens spokesperson for Roads and Ports and member for Southern Metropolitan Region, Sue Pennecuik MLC, have branded the State Government’s Environmental Effects Statement process as a ‘sham’.
"Throughout the whole EES process, local community groups have been telling me that there has been little consultation with them… with the report finally released… only 5 weeks have been allowed for community members to digest more than 2000 pages of technical data and write submissions before a closing date of the 19th of December. This is all being done to meet a government imposed timetable to approve the Bypass by the end of March 2009", Ms Pennecuik said.
“It is impossible for the Government to seriously expect people to wade through all of the technical data to write a suitable submission in 5 weeks,” added Mr Stevens, “This highlights an arrogant, brazen attitude on the part of the State Government and SEITA. They followed the same process for the channel deepening and the same process for the desalination plant in Wonthaggi. The process is an absolute sham.”
Ms Pennecuik expressed a similar notion. “There is no credibility left in the EES process in Victoria,” she said.
The Greens candidates have long stated that they vehemently oppose the construction of the Frankston Bypass, especially the section of it that goes through the Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve. They also oppose the updated path that goes through less of the Reserve.
“It will still affect the habitats of many significant animals, including koalas, wallabies and the endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot,” said Mr Mallett, “just creating an overpass for these animals to reside will not change these effects.”
Mr Stevens and Mr Mallett are unimpressed with the study. They believe that public transport, as well as other road upgrade options were purposefully excluded from the study.
“Of the 30 different road options initially under consideration, three were put forward based solely on the advice of SEITA, the project proponent,” says Mr Mallett, “and what do you know? These options all propose to build the Bypass in full or major part!”
Both Greens candidates will be putting forward their own individual submissions on the EES. They encourage concerned residents to exercise their democratic right and write their own submissions.
The EES report can be viewed in full at the Frankston Library or at the Frankston Civic Centre.
"Throughout the whole EES process, local community groups have been telling me that there has been little consultation with them… with the report finally released… only 5 weeks have been allowed for community members to digest more than 2000 pages of technical data and write submissions before a closing date of the 19th of December. This is all being done to meet a government imposed timetable to approve the Bypass by the end of March 2009", Ms Pennecuik said.
“It is impossible for the Government to seriously expect people to wade through all of the technical data to write a suitable submission in 5 weeks,” added Mr Stevens, “This highlights an arrogant, brazen attitude on the part of the State Government and SEITA. They followed the same process for the channel deepening and the same process for the desalination plant in Wonthaggi. The process is an absolute sham.”
Ms Pennecuik expressed a similar notion. “There is no credibility left in the EES process in Victoria,” she said.
The Greens candidates have long stated that they vehemently oppose the construction of the Frankston Bypass, especially the section of it that goes through the Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve. They also oppose the updated path that goes through less of the Reserve.
“It will still affect the habitats of many significant animals, including koalas, wallabies and the endangered Southern Brown Bandicoot,” said Mr Mallett, “just creating an overpass for these animals to reside will not change these effects.”
Mr Stevens and Mr Mallett are unimpressed with the study. They believe that public transport, as well as other road upgrade options were purposefully excluded from the study.
“Of the 30 different road options initially under consideration, three were put forward based solely on the advice of SEITA, the project proponent,” says Mr Mallett, “and what do you know? These options all propose to build the Bypass in full or major part!”
Both Greens candidates will be putting forward their own individual submissions on the EES. They encourage concerned residents to exercise their democratic right and write their own submissions.
The EES report can be viewed in full at the Frankston Library or at the Frankston Civic Centre.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
More childcare for Council
I was asked today if I supported more Council-run childcare?
Having a young family, childcare is very important to me. Council-run childcare and Family Day Care are essential to enable families to meet the needs of the current economic climate. It helps people get back to work or study after having children.
The Greens have come out firing inrecent weeks, asking that childcare be moved back into the hands of the people in light of the recent ABC Childcare debacle.
If the government runs these childcare centres, they have more ownership and control over issues affecting parents and the children who attend the centres. The government would be accountable, and care would become a lot better as a result.
Having a young family, childcare is very important to me. Council-run childcare and Family Day Care are essential to enable families to meet the needs of the current economic climate. It helps people get back to work or study after having children.
The Greens have come out firing inrecent weeks, asking that childcare be moved back into the hands of the people in light of the recent ABC Childcare debacle.
If the government runs these childcare centres, they have more ownership and control over issues affecting parents and the children who attend the centres. The government would be accountable, and care would become a lot better as a result.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
As part of my meet-and-greet sessions with residents this week, I have come up with an idea for an annual “Eco Expo” that would be held in Wells Street in the Frankston CBD for a day. This event is intended to showcase sustainable living and would feature stalls, free activities and keynote speeches from those ‘in the know’.
With climate change becoming a real issue, our local community will be the first to be affected. The Eco Expo is a way to introduce sustainable living to the community and get some ideas forming in people’s minds!
Have you any ideas for Frankston?
With climate change becoming a real issue, our local community will be the first to be affected. The Eco Expo is a way to introduce sustainable living to the community and get some ideas forming in people’s minds!
Have you any ideas for Frankston?
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Friday night's speech
On Friday night, I made a presentation at the Frankston North Community Group's Candidates Forum. Here is my three-minute speech:
"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, members of the Frankston North Community Group and my fellow candidates.
My name is Jaymz Stevens. I’m 26 years old and I am the endorsed Greens candidate for the South West Ward of Frankston City Council.
I am going into my third year of studying Primary Education at Monash University,Peninsula campus, and I live in Frankston with my wife and our two young children. I also work part-time in After School Care.
In the past, I have spent too much time talking about the issues that affect Frankston and I recently felt that it was finally time to act and put my hand up to make a difference for the City that I love.
The things that concern me the most are the impact of developments and climate change on our environment, concerns over the welfare of the youth in our community and problems facing the families of this City.
One of the major issues facing us is that of Climate Change. It is important for Council to get out of this long-held idea of “carbon neutrality” and start working with the businesses of the municipality to lower their carbon emissions. I will also call on Council to provide its population with more information on how climate change will affect them, with an annual “Eco Expo” showcasing a sustainable way of life.
I do not believe that a Bypass is an effective answer to easing the bottleneck at the end of the Frankston Freeway, especially not through the Pines Flora & Fauna Reserve.
It is also imperative that we provide more opportunities for Frankston residents to get around without using their car… including providing a biofuel shuttle bus between Bayside, the Karingal Hub and Langwarrin Shopping Centres.
I would also lobby the State Government to extend the Frankston railway line to Baxter.
A massive Marina complex is not sustainable environmentally or economically. In our current economic crisis, developing a Marina hotel or apartment complex for the rich simply is not feasible. The impact that it may have on the environment is also too great to risk its development. I do, however, believe in the development of a Safe Boat Harbour.
Having a young family, it is important to me to advocate more access for young families to receive daycare, ensuring that they have every chance to work or study whilst still being able to afford to have their children in care.
Music and lifestyle events for the young people of our community are essential to making the streets safer and providing more opportunities for Frankston’s burgeoning artistic community to showcase their talent. I would recommend that Council fund open mic and gallery nights for local bands and artists as well as two big music concerts a year to give local acts more exposure and the chance to take their craft to the next level.
I will meet with community, youth and Friends groups to ensure that they have their concerns heard by Council and to return the sense of Community to our unique municipality.
I stand as a Greens candidate to stop infighting and ensure that Council’s decisions take into account the effect that they may have on the world of our children. It is time that we stand as a unit, together making Frankston City the most progressive Council in Victoria."
"Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, members of the Frankston North Community Group and my fellow candidates.
My name is Jaymz Stevens. I’m 26 years old and I am the endorsed Greens candidate for the South West Ward of Frankston City Council.
I am going into my third year of studying Primary Education at Monash University,Peninsula campus, and I live in Frankston with my wife and our two young children. I also work part-time in After School Care.
In the past, I have spent too much time talking about the issues that affect Frankston and I recently felt that it was finally time to act and put my hand up to make a difference for the City that I love.
The things that concern me the most are the impact of developments and climate change on our environment, concerns over the welfare of the youth in our community and problems facing the families of this City.
One of the major issues facing us is that of Climate Change. It is important for Council to get out of this long-held idea of “carbon neutrality” and start working with the businesses of the municipality to lower their carbon emissions. I will also call on Council to provide its population with more information on how climate change will affect them, with an annual “Eco Expo” showcasing a sustainable way of life.
I do not believe that a Bypass is an effective answer to easing the bottleneck at the end of the Frankston Freeway, especially not through the Pines Flora & Fauna Reserve.
It is also imperative that we provide more opportunities for Frankston residents to get around without using their car… including providing a biofuel shuttle bus between Bayside, the Karingal Hub and Langwarrin Shopping Centres.
I would also lobby the State Government to extend the Frankston railway line to Baxter.
A massive Marina complex is not sustainable environmentally or economically. In our current economic crisis, developing a Marina hotel or apartment complex for the rich simply is not feasible. The impact that it may have on the environment is also too great to risk its development. I do, however, believe in the development of a Safe Boat Harbour.
Having a young family, it is important to me to advocate more access for young families to receive daycare, ensuring that they have every chance to work or study whilst still being able to afford to have their children in care.
Music and lifestyle events for the young people of our community are essential to making the streets safer and providing more opportunities for Frankston’s burgeoning artistic community to showcase their talent. I would recommend that Council fund open mic and gallery nights for local bands and artists as well as two big music concerts a year to give local acts more exposure and the chance to take their craft to the next level.
I will meet with community, youth and Friends groups to ensure that they have their concerns heard by Council and to return the sense of Community to our unique municipality.
I stand as a Greens candidate to stop infighting and ensure that Council’s decisions take into account the effect that they may have on the world of our children. It is time that we stand as a unit, together making Frankston City the most progressive Council in Victoria."
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
A day of history...
Today is a rest day from the local government elections, whilst I enjoy watching the US Elections on the ABC. I am interested to see if there is any form of a swing towards Ralph Nader - I hope that the other parties such as Nader's and McKinney's don't take away from getting a Democrat into the WhiteHouse.
The first black American President will be a moment in history to look back on... like the Twin Towers attacks on 9/11/01, the day that Kurt Cobain killed himself, the day that John Lennon was shot, the day that Kennedy was assassinated, the day that Holt didn't come back from having a swim.
I will be attending the Frankston North candidates' forum on Friday night - I have heard that not many candidates will be showing up, but I will be there to present to people my platform and why I am running for Council. It is also situated in the ward that my friend and compatriate Les Mallett is running in so I look forward to supporting him.
Every candidate has their "candidate statement" and "preferences" available on the VEC website - I encourage you to check out their ideas and hopes.
My leaflets should be hitting your letterboxes within the next week.
The first black American President will be a moment in history to look back on... like the Twin Towers attacks on 9/11/01, the day that Kurt Cobain killed himself, the day that John Lennon was shot, the day that Kennedy was assassinated, the day that Holt didn't come back from having a swim.
I will be attending the Frankston North candidates' forum on Friday night - I have heard that not many candidates will be showing up, but I will be there to present to people my platform and why I am running for Council. It is also situated in the ward that my friend and compatriate Les Mallett is running in so I look forward to supporting him.
Every candidate has their "candidate statement" and "preferences" available on the VEC website - I encourage you to check out their ideas and hopes.
My leaflets should be hitting your letterboxes within the next week.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Eco-friendly ideas
Research suggests that in the year 2100, sea levels will possibly be 15 metres higher. That means that Frankston, Seaford, Langwarrin... all these places will be gone, unless we do something to help combat climate change and global warming.
Council has continually pushed an idea of "carbon neutrality" - that is, not changing anything but just buying up carbon offsets to counteract.
In current times, the requirement for carbon neutrality has past. This would have been a fantastic initiative twenty five years ago... but it is time for Council to do something more! Council must make a committment to reduce its emissions and the emissions of businesses within its municipality.
As well as this, Council must show the way with regards to climate change. I will call to create an annual "Eco Expo" on the Frankston Foreshore, inviting keynote speakers, activities and stalls highlighting how residents can make their Eco Footprint smaller.
Another initiative I would hope to introduce is a "Climate Change" stall happening at various major Frankston spots every three months. This will give people continued information and access to the newest research in regards to this phenomenon and keep it at the forefront of people's minds.
I will also undertake a municipality-wide Ecological Footprint survey, collating data from all households within the municipality (including commercial and industrial premises). This would give people an individualised and also bigger picture of their impact on the world.
It is important to start taking Climate Change seriously... it's important for Frankston City Council to lead the way amongst Australian Councils.
Council has continually pushed an idea of "carbon neutrality" - that is, not changing anything but just buying up carbon offsets to counteract.
In current times, the requirement for carbon neutrality has past. This would have been a fantastic initiative twenty five years ago... but it is time for Council to do something more! Council must make a committment to reduce its emissions and the emissions of businesses within its municipality.
As well as this, Council must show the way with regards to climate change. I will call to create an annual "Eco Expo" on the Frankston Foreshore, inviting keynote speakers, activities and stalls highlighting how residents can make their Eco Footprint smaller.
Another initiative I would hope to introduce is a "Climate Change" stall happening at various major Frankston spots every three months. This will give people continued information and access to the newest research in regards to this phenomenon and keep it at the forefront of people's minds.
I will also undertake a municipality-wide Ecological Footprint survey, collating data from all households within the municipality (including commercial and industrial premises). This would give people an individualised and also bigger picture of their impact on the world.
It is important to start taking Climate Change seriously... it's important for Frankston City Council to lead the way amongst Australian Councils.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Bicycles and the end of preferences
I decided to write a short committment for Bicycle Victoria to let their members know what I stand for in terms of transport of the two-wheeled variety. Here is what I said:
"As a Greens candidate, it’s a fundamental part of my platform that people rely less on their cars and more on alternative means, including walking and riding their bicycles. As such, I would advocate for a Council-wide linkup of bicycle paths, more secure bike parking areas, the inclusion of bicycle lanes where possible and bicycle-friendly ramps around our famous Frankston foreshore. Every weekend, cyclists ride through our municipality on the Nepean Highway enjoying a casual ride or a serious race. Linking up a bike path with our municipal neighbours on the Mornington Peninsula would help with the safety of these cyclists. I would advocate for the implementation of a special lock-up “bike zone” at Frankston station, providing a safer and more secure area for residents to “Bike and Train” into the City for their daily commute. I will also commit more Council funding to school-aged education programs within the City so as to encourage more students to use their bikes to get to and from school or around Frankston."
Preferences closed today. In the interests of transparency, here are my preferences:
1. Jaymz Stevens (of course!)
2. Robert Thurley
3. Barry Priestley
4. Christine Richards
5. Alistair Wardle
6. Brian Cunial
7. Judy Wachendorfer
8. Henryk Kay
9. Wayne Woods
10. Suzette Trewhitt
My posters are out in the City today, so keep your eye out for them. You may have come across this blog because of them. If so, welcome and please feel free to leave a comment or an e-mail to let me know what you think of my campaign or issues you feel strongly about.
"As a Greens candidate, it’s a fundamental part of my platform that people rely less on their cars and more on alternative means, including walking and riding their bicycles. As such, I would advocate for a Council-wide linkup of bicycle paths, more secure bike parking areas, the inclusion of bicycle lanes where possible and bicycle-friendly ramps around our famous Frankston foreshore. Every weekend, cyclists ride through our municipality on the Nepean Highway enjoying a casual ride or a serious race. Linking up a bike path with our municipal neighbours on the Mornington Peninsula would help with the safety of these cyclists. I would advocate for the implementation of a special lock-up “bike zone” at Frankston station, providing a safer and more secure area for residents to “Bike and Train” into the City for their daily commute. I will also commit more Council funding to school-aged education programs within the City so as to encourage more students to use their bikes to get to and from school or around Frankston."
Preferences closed today. In the interests of transparency, here are my preferences:
1. Jaymz Stevens (of course!)
2. Robert Thurley
3. Barry Priestley
4. Christine Richards
5. Alistair Wardle
6. Brian Cunial
7. Judy Wachendorfer
8. Henryk Kay
9. Wayne Woods
10. Suzette Trewhitt
My posters are out in the City today, so keep your eye out for them. You may have come across this blog because of them. If so, welcome and please feel free to leave a comment or an e-mail to let me know what you think of my campaign or issues you feel strongly about.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Preferences nearly closed, candidates' forum information
The closing time for candidates to enter their preferences is tomorrow (Friday) at 4pm. I will be posting my full preference listing on this blog to ensure full transparency.
Next Friday night, there will be a candidates' forum at the Pines Community Centre in Frankston North from 7.30pm. Apparently, each candidate will be presenting for two minutes on their vision of the future of Frankston. Although Frankston North is not in my ward (South-West), I will be attending to show support for my North-West counterpart Les Mallett as well as doing a presentation myself. I have heard from a couple of other candidates from my ward that they will not be attending. I guess some candidates aren't serious about helping Frankston as a whole and are focussed on their own areas.
Anyway, I am off for a run around Frankston with my wife. Frankston has some incredible places for running or taking a stroll. The boardwalk is one of my favourite spots, and of course our incredible beach - the safest beach in Victoria!
Next Friday night, there will be a candidates' forum at the Pines Community Centre in Frankston North from 7.30pm. Apparently, each candidate will be presenting for two minutes on their vision of the future of Frankston. Although Frankston North is not in my ward (South-West), I will be attending to show support for my North-West counterpart Les Mallett as well as doing a presentation myself. I have heard from a couple of other candidates from my ward that they will not be attending. I guess some candidates aren't serious about helping Frankston as a whole and are focussed on their own areas.
Anyway, I am off for a run around Frankston with my wife. Frankston has some incredible places for running or taking a stroll. The boardwalk is one of my favourite spots, and of course our incredible beach - the safest beach in Victoria!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Meetings, preferences and some honest thoughts...
I have been meeting my fellow candidates daily for the last few days in order to understand the reasons behind their candidacy, the issues that we may differ on, and of course, to talk about preferences.
It is a long held belief by many in the community that Greens candidates always preference Labor candidates - that a vote for the Greens is essentially a vote for Labor. This is not true. It wasn't true in the last Federal Election and I can categorically state that I will not be preferencing any endorsed Labor candidates in these Local Government Elections.
I will be preferencing candidates which have similar beliefs and ideas as me. Candidates who are passionate about Frankston and changing the way the wider community (ie. the rest of Melbourne) views our beautiful City.
It also seems to be a belief held by some people in the community that Greens candidates are automatically against any big developments (such as the Marina) and other issues. For my thoughts on the marina, please see my blog post on it here. I am a candidate that takes everything on merit. If elected, I will measure up the pros and cons of every development and issue which requires my vote, taking advice and listening to opinions from those in the community that the issue or development may affect. It's important to me that Frankston is a terrific City for years and years to come. Will our children thank us for making these decisions? Will WE thank ourselves in the coming years for these decisions?
Everything requires thought and everything requires serious thought.
I will be attending the Friends of Frankston's Film Night tonight. It is being held at the Uniting Church, 18 High Street, Frankston at 7.30pm. The film being shown is David Bradbury's look at Council Elections in Byron Bay; "The Battle for Byron". Sounds like an interesting film and I look forward to meeting those who are attending.
It is a long held belief by many in the community that Greens candidates always preference Labor candidates - that a vote for the Greens is essentially a vote for Labor. This is not true. It wasn't true in the last Federal Election and I can categorically state that I will not be preferencing any endorsed Labor candidates in these Local Government Elections.
I will be preferencing candidates which have similar beliefs and ideas as me. Candidates who are passionate about Frankston and changing the way the wider community (ie. the rest of Melbourne) views our beautiful City.
It also seems to be a belief held by some people in the community that Greens candidates are automatically against any big developments (such as the Marina) and other issues. For my thoughts on the marina, please see my blog post on it here. I am a candidate that takes everything on merit. If elected, I will measure up the pros and cons of every development and issue which requires my vote, taking advice and listening to opinions from those in the community that the issue or development may affect. It's important to me that Frankston is a terrific City for years and years to come. Will our children thank us for making these decisions? Will WE thank ourselves in the coming years for these decisions?
Everything requires thought and everything requires serious thought.
I will be attending the Friends of Frankston's Film Night tonight. It is being held at the Uniting Church, 18 High Street, Frankston at 7.30pm. The film being shown is David Bradbury's look at Council Elections in Byron Bay; "The Battle for Byron". Sounds like an interesting film and I look forward to meeting those who are attending.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Riding around Town
From today onwards, you may see me around Frankston riding my new (used!) bike. I'm the guy with the Greens stickers on his helmet.
I think it's important to walk the walk, and since I am running on a "less reliance on cars" platform, I will not be using my car in this campaign (except if my wife and children are attending events or shopping with me, or it's my turn to pick up the kids!). I think that for short trips it is quite easy to invest in a bicycle or, even easier, to walk to the local shops! I understand that for longer trips, it's almost impossible to walk (public transport, perhaps?). For those with young children (like myself), it can be very difficult walking to the shops. Have a go anyway!
Alongside this, we need to increase public transport. The Frankston railway line needs to be extended to Baxter, and Councils (as well as communities) need to band together to lobby State Government to increase the number of services and the quality of these services (rail and bus).
Another idea I have is for an inner and outer loop situation, where we can link up stations towards the end of certain lines (Frankston, Cranbourne, Dandenong, Glen Waverley, Nunawading, and so on). The inner loop (which is not so much a Frankston issue) would link up stations such as Caulfield with East Malvern and across to Box Hill. Don't get me wrong. These are major works and require more thought and process than what i've outlined here (tunnels or no tunnels? Stations in between these outer loop stations?) but I think it is a credible idea.
Ideas are important and the most realistic ideas are going to come from one source : the community for whom these ideas are required. That's why I am, on this election campaign, going to link up with community groups at meetings and find out what ideas THEY have. Let's give the community a true, genuine ear on Council. It's about time!
I think it's important to walk the walk, and since I am running on a "less reliance on cars" platform, I will not be using my car in this campaign (except if my wife and children are attending events or shopping with me, or it's my turn to pick up the kids!). I think that for short trips it is quite easy to invest in a bicycle or, even easier, to walk to the local shops! I understand that for longer trips, it's almost impossible to walk (public transport, perhaps?). For those with young children (like myself), it can be very difficult walking to the shops. Have a go anyway!
Alongside this, we need to increase public transport. The Frankston railway line needs to be extended to Baxter, and Councils (as well as communities) need to band together to lobby State Government to increase the number of services and the quality of these services (rail and bus).
Another idea I have is for an inner and outer loop situation, where we can link up stations towards the end of certain lines (Frankston, Cranbourne, Dandenong, Glen Waverley, Nunawading, and so on). The inner loop (which is not so much a Frankston issue) would link up stations such as Caulfield with East Malvern and across to Box Hill. Don't get me wrong. These are major works and require more thought and process than what i've outlined here (tunnels or no tunnels? Stations in between these outer loop stations?) but I think it is a credible idea.
Ideas are important and the most realistic ideas are going to come from one source : the community for whom these ideas are required. That's why I am, on this election campaign, going to link up with community groups at meetings and find out what ideas THEY have. Let's give the community a true, genuine ear on Council. It's about time!
Monday, October 27, 2008
No to Marina complex! Yes to Safe Boat Harbour!
The Frankston Marina was put forward by Council for tender last week. This development has divided the city... many people want a Safe Boat Harbour, many don't want our beautiful Frankston Beach ruined by a massive development... Some wonder if, in our current economic climate, a hotel complex or apartments could prove to be environmentally or economically sustainable?
There are many questions coming from the community and these need to be heard and answered by those who are putting themselves up to represent the Frankston community.
It is clearly a contentious issue that needs to be explored further.
Personally, I do not believe in a Marina development. I think an environmentally sound Safe Boat Harbour would be a good step forward for the community. It would be an excellent upgrade from the current facilities for boat users near Oliver's Hill.
Instead of building new developments, why can't we fill all of the vacant places in the Frankston CBD? Fill the empty and unused shops (such as Dimmeys and Spotlight) before looking to develop elsewhere. Especially on beautiful Oliver's Hill. That view is truly the best in Melbourne. It cannot and must not be spoiled.
Les Mallett (my fellow Greens candidate who is running in Frankston's North-West Ward) and I (South-West Ward candidate) will be appearing at Frankston railway station and Shannon Mall (near the entrance to Bayside Shopping Centre) at different times between 11 and 14th November. More details to come...
There are many questions coming from the community and these need to be heard and answered by those who are putting themselves up to represent the Frankston community.
It is clearly a contentious issue that needs to be explored further.
Personally, I do not believe in a Marina development. I think an environmentally sound Safe Boat Harbour would be a good step forward for the community. It would be an excellent upgrade from the current facilities for boat users near Oliver's Hill.
Instead of building new developments, why can't we fill all of the vacant places in the Frankston CBD? Fill the empty and unused shops (such as Dimmeys and Spotlight) before looking to develop elsewhere. Especially on beautiful Oliver's Hill. That view is truly the best in Melbourne. It cannot and must not be spoiled.
Les Mallett (my fellow Greens candidate who is running in Frankston's North-West Ward) and I (South-West Ward candidate) will be appearing at Frankston railway station and Shannon Mall (near the entrance to Bayside Shopping Centre) at different times between 11 and 14th November. More details to come...
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