Greens candidates for the upcoming MidCoast Council election launched their campaign at Wingham on last Saturday, July 17.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
After meeting at the CWA Rooms in Isabella Street, the group walked with signs and masks to Central Park.
The Greens ticket members are led by Dheera Smith. Others listed on the ticket are Jessica Harris, Denis Duval, Eleanor Spence, Helen Holliday and Sallie Colechin.
Each candidate outlined their reasons for running for the September election.
Ms Smith emphasised three major issues the team would take to the electorate initially.
"The Greens will prioritise caring for and preserving our unique natural environment," she said.
She acknowledged North East Forest Alliance activist, Susie Russell who spoke earlier about protecting native habitat on private and public land.
Transport, footpaths and roads also were a priority and Ms Smith said council could create sustainable jobs by using recycled materials to build the roads.
I want to see every council member who is elected go to Wingham; go to Nabiac; go to Harrington and Gloucester and do their job.
- Dheera Smith
She called for a plan for public transport to bring those who need it - especially young people and seniors - from outlying areas to the town centres so they could study, work and attend appointments.
Ms Smith said council had a role in attracting and advocating for sustainable green jobs in the region, including renewable energy.
"We want the jobs that will stay here and become part of the community," she said.
One of the travesties of this amalgamated council, Ms Smith said, was the geographical distance.
"I want to see every council member who is elected go to Wingham; go to Nabiac; go to Harrington and Gloucester and do their job."
Holding a wooden sculpture of a yacht made from recycled local timber by a local artist, Ms Smith said: "The boat is part of a new start for this district. Get on board and join our crew. Get out there and talk to your friends and neighbours and end that nexus of fear.
"The Greens stand for social justice, for environment and for sustainability and the future. And most of all The Greens stand for climate action because it has never been more important."
To learn more about The Greens for MidCoast Council's policies and follow visit greensoncouncil.org.au/midcoast/ or email greensmgl@gmail.com.
Did you know? Great Lakes Advocate online subscribers not only have 24/7 access to local and national news, sport, what's on and entertainment - they also have access to our print editions in digital format, with all the advertisements and classifieds at their fingertips.
