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The statement asked why the candidate chose to run, and what they would like to achieve. Candidates were also asked to supply their favourite quote, a fun fact or who would play them in a movie.
In these elections, City of Launceston council has 32 candidates, 11 of those are seeking re-election, eight running for mayor and eight for deputy mayor.
More than 47,000 people are registered to vote in the City of Launceston municipality.
| Thurs Oct 18 47309 | Launceston City | 16372 | 34.61% |
Matthew Bowen
I am passionate about Launceston and Northern Tasmania’s future. My wife and I have owned and run a successful state and national multi-award-winning CBD business for 12 years. I previously worked in advertising and marketing including North-West manager for The Examiner and former Cityprom Board member.
I support: council amalgamations if it benefits ratepayers, first 90 minutes free parking, Tamar River clean up, fairer rates, maintaining the Gorge’s natural beauty not overdeveloping it, and keeping politics out of council.
We need to support a diverse range of businesses in Northern Tasmania to provide opportunities for employment and a desirable place for families to live, work and prosper.
I will work to respect heritage while embracing sensible future development to move the region forward. I will use common sense and listen to all stakeholders to achieve the best outcomes for ratepayers of Launceston and surrounding areas.
Thane Brady
In 2014 I stood as a candidate on a zero advertising spend simply to provide an alternative.
People have been in my ear now for months suggesting the idea of standing again would be a good thing because change is required and if I picked up a seat at the table I have all the attributes not to waste such an opportunity.
Based on my skills and experience gained professionally and through community service I am confident I can make a difference. I have demonstrated strong links into my community with character to match with AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan recently calling me “grumpy” after I refused to comply or back down. I’m not trying to win a popularity or best mate contest at the LCC table, rather I will do everything I can to advocate for ratepayers and my community.
People have shared their concerns with me about a range of issues with the overwhelming majority raising traffic congestion and a traffic master plan not incorporating the infrastructure investment we all know is required to make our city move again.
I am totally committed to council amalgamation and good corporate governance.
Leon Cooper
I am running for alderman and deputy mayor.
I am a left-wing atheist and a fan of heavy metal music. I am passionate about sticking up for minority groups and promoting tourism and also very concerned about our democracy being corrupted by donations given to political parties by billionaires and corporations.
I am an experimental artist, who has worked in agriculture, forestry, mining and the meat industry. I’m not a member of a political party, but have been a member of the Greens in the past.
Born in England in 1970, my family moved to Penguin, Tasmania in 1971-73 and also in 1982. I went to Penguin High School and worked at the Barkers Bacon pig farm, moving to Launceston in 1995 to work at The Blue Ribbon smallgoods factory at Killafaddy.
I would like to encourage Launcestonians to elect an all-new council. As a student representative in 2003 I learnt that general managers run business. And if representatives want an easy stress free life they will look after the well-being of management. Not the people they have been elected to represent.
Jim Cox
I was first elected to the Launceston City Council in 2011 after a 20-year career in state parliament, retiring in 2008. I held several ministerial portfolios including Local Government, Police and Emergency Management, and Infrastructure.
Prior to that I had had a successful career in radio and television.
I was born and educated in Launceston where I spent most of my working life, and as a resident and ratepayer I believe I can continue to bring experience and independence to the council.
Last year, I was made a member of the Order of Australia for my work with road safety and was chairman of the Tasmanian Road Safety Advisory Council until recently.
Fun fact: I was a successful speedway competitor, and drove one of the fastest and most competitive Mini’s in the country.
Nick Daking
I’m a 39 year old local business owner, married with three children and have a finance and engineering background. For many years I worked with an International Funds manager, specialising in financing property developments across the country. I’ve spent the last nine years building and managing hospitality businesses within Launceston and currently own Sporties Hotel and Henry’s Bar & Restaurant.
I am extremely passionate about Launceston as a city, its business community, and its citizens. I believe I have the commercial experience and skill set required to continue the momentum of the city, as an alderman.
Favourite quote: Don’t be afraid to make a decision.
Andrea Dawkins
If elected, I will continue to represent the views of Launceston’s progressive residents. We have a proud history and can look forward to an exciting future.
Council provides an opportunity to consider a number of issues important to residents. Waste management, equity in food security, planning for climate disruption, building heights and preserving the Cataract Gorge for locals and visitors alike, are items of paramount importance to me.
Favourite quote: Animals are my friends … and I don’t eat my friends.
Janie Finlay
A successful, award-winning business woman and high-level strategic thinker who gets things done. It is clear, now more than ever, that we are on the cusp of a great period of incredible opportunity. If we remain committed to what makes Launceston unique, and proudly continue our tradition of innovation, we have a rich and exciting future ahead. We must work together to facilitate appropriate development and at the same time deliver the associated infrastructure to ensure our quality of life is not diminished.
I have a uniquely varied background. I naturally engage with, understand and will strongly represent the diverse needs of individuals, families, and business leaders right across our community.
Above all we need to develop a greater commitment to excellence in all that we do - not just simply get things done. We need strong leadership and decisive action. I offer both.
Fun fact: I spoke in Singapore earlier this year at the Blockchain Economic Forum representing a local company on the world stage and facilitated a panel discussion on the topic of developing community around blockchain projects.
Basil Fitch
Achievements: 12 years hands-on experience in local government. Secured Ravenswood-Waverley link road and Fire Brigade, finance for Over 50s Club, bowling green and Ravenswood (Eastside) Shopping Centre. Fixed collapsing LCC sewerage-stormwater pipes in York, Margaret and St John streets. Built West Launceston Reservoir. At St Leonards, the Athletics Centre, BMX Bike Track, Netball Centre, picnic grounds and much more.
I will pursue a $100 rate reduction from Taswater’s $3 million dividend. Vote for accountability and transparency. Ratepayers first, second and third. For more, go to Basil Fitch Journal on Facebook.
Danny Gibson
I am running for deputy mayor and re-election as an alderman and was first elected in 2011.
Passionate, independent, hardworking and experienced.
Over the past seven years, I have demonstrated an open-minded approach and an independent voice on council.
I have a genuine willingness to listen and learn. I am committed to Launceston and committed to the hard work required to shape a vision that celebrates our heritage and ignites our passion and opportunities for the future.
For energetic and effective representation, please consider giving me your number one vote for alderman and deputy mayor.
Danny.Gibson@launceston.tas.gov.au or 0407 096 597
Who would play you in a movie: I would be played by Chris Lilley in a movie. I always make the most of life’s moments.
Alan Harris
I am local community leader and candidate for mayor and alderman for the City of Launceston.
I stood in 2014 for deputy mayor and alderman. Whilst I didn’t get elected I did receive lots of encouragement from people I’d meet through my many community roles, Rotarians, friends, family and even other candidates all encouraging me to stand again in 2018.
I’ve always been interested in my local community and what I can do to improve it, starting when I lived at Carrick during 1990s and continuing to this day. I feel there is a real “need for change” at the council at the moment, necessary to take us forward into the next decade.
I’m a community leader who's passionate about building a better Launceston in every way possible.
I have 40 years of business experience, great negotiation skills and an outstanding track record of delivering results for my community. If elected to the City of Launceston council, I will spend every day building a better, more liveable Launceston.
Favourite quote: It’s amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit – Harry Truman.
Ryan Limb
“Progressive direction, entrepreneurial flair and a passion for cultural and creative industries.”
Our beautiful city is full of opportunity and excitement. My passion is with running events, creating something where people can come together and celebrate is such a rewarding experience. I want to talk the skills I have learnt from my 10 years in business and bring a fresh approach to this city and its council.
With a background in hospitality, tourism and events, my strengths are positive leadership, strategic development and creative solutions. My independent representation will be dynamic with a unique approach to problem solving and innovation. With my voice, Launceston can expect real resolutions on community issues. If you want a fresh, young face to represent this city, vote one Ryan Limb.
Robin McKendrick
My family and I live and have grown up in Launceston and I have been privileged to have represented the people of Launceston for a number of years.
This has enabled me to be involved in many community organisations, developing, creating job and assisting with small and larger issues as they occur.
If re-elected I will continue to fight for a fairer rate system, better road system, improved health care at the LGH, future developments, youth and jobs.
I am also very passionate about keeping AFL in Launceston having been chairman of the York Park and Inveresk Authority from the start to achieving the result we have today.
My involvement and knowledge of current and future developments, together with positive forward-thinking, commonsense decisions will help ensure that Launceston continues to be the best city for us all.
Hugh McKenzie
I am committed to being part of a strong team leading Launceston into the future. In addition to my seven years’ experience as an independent alderman, I bring from my 35 years in business, and as a partner of KPMG, strong governance, financial and problem solving skills.
These, with my strong sense of social justice and years of community involvement, provide a balanced approach to council decisions, actions and accountability. I am passionate about making a contribution to Launceston, and I seek your support to continue the work I have begun as your representative, including active involvement in the following eight council committees; Finance and Audit, Economic Development, Tender Review, Access, Theatre North, Pedestrian and Bike Committee, Heritage Advisory Committee and Heritage Forest Committee, I also represent you on the board of the Launceston Airport. I can and do make a difference to ensure Launceston maximises its potential, because Launceston matters.
Fun fact: I represented Tasmania for three years in the State Amateur Football Team and still pursue a fit and healthy lifestyle.
Bruce Potter
I have owned and successfully operated the iconic Royal Oak for many years. As a family man and local business owner, I know the challenges we face every day in making ends meet. I have experience, commonsense and the ability to think carefully before spending money. With all decisions we must remember someone always has to pay. The council must live within its means with a fair go for ratepayers.
We need a fairer rating system, a clean river, a fully funded LGH, development and employment. Launceston needs to be a safe, affordable, liveable and vibrant city supported by a healthy business community.
I am eager to work hard for you and promise if elected I will genuinely listen to you and be your voice. I will do what is right for the community and will not let you down. I will be available at all times.
Krista Preece
I have a background in promotions, retail and I am a qualified hairdresser. I currently work in the Specialist Clinic at the Launceston General Hospital. I have four children and my husband is a teacher. I have no political party affiliations.
I want more women in council, trustworthy aldermen that support responsible spending to stop rate rises in a time of poor economic wage growth, I want an open, transparent and honest council for Launceston. A council that works for its residents and supports their suburbs for healthy, safe, and supported communities. Launceston needs locals as well as tourists in our CBD, we need residents to have money to spend and parking that isn’t a deterrent. Council needs to be supporting tourism, makers and creators, businesses of all sizes, on wheels and behind house hold doors. I don’t sit back and whinge, I participate.
Fun fact: I make my own clothes.
Brian Roe
People live in Launceston. They learn and work here - grow up and grow old here.
They succeed and they struggle here. They seek opportunities elsewhere and they come back. They migrate here and they stay.
Too often in these debates it’s our people who are forgotten. My primary focus as an alderman will be on those who call Launceston and its hinterland home.
I certainly won’t disregard what others describe as their big picture – planning and development, growing economic opportunities, our history and our fantastic built and natural environments. Each is vital to providing the base upon which we can support our people.
I want to address loneliness, provide more outlets for seniors and for those with a disability, work with carers to make Launceston more liveable for all.
Launceston can be better placed with a representative who puts its people above all else. I am that person.
Bob Salt
I have lived and worked in Launceston most of my life. I am passionate about my local community and believe Launceston is a beautiful place to live, work and raise a family. I am the father of Amelia and the poppy of Frankie and Louie.
I currently operate a small state-wide business which operates out of Launceston.
Communication, cooperation and community service is key if we want to continue to ensure the Launceston region is a vibrant and welcoming to visitors and locals. I am a good listener and problem solver who will not give up until the job is done. We must all support Launceston to grow sustainability and for local people and small business to thrive.
I volunteer my time to numerous community organisations including Lions International, Rotary, Festival of Dance, bowls, netball, men's shed and local football.
I promise you that I will work to make Launceston an even better city and I will be your voice.
Issues that will be my primary focus are: Commmunity forums where your voice will be heard, council amalgamation, traffic congestion, parking, public transport, a clean Tamar River, waste in council, rate increases, accountability and sensible development.
Ted Sands
Launceston is the best – I love this city, the people, natural beauty, history and life style.
It is the reason I stand for council to continue to be involved, contributing and making a difference.
I have actively worked and cared for the community whilst in the police force, on the board of St Michaels, volunteering with Red Cross, as an alderman.
I am proud to be part of the team progressing Launceston with sensible development, in the arts and sporting culture, with social organisations.
My phone rings “I was told to ring you Ted, I have a problem”. Working away behind the scenes listening, not taking no for answer gaining results in planning and parking, traffic issues, social amenities, parks and sporting.
I recognise social media (#tedsaid) but prefer face to face contact to understand issues and keep in touch.
Extra hot, half strength flat white, anytime, thanks Ted.
Joshua Sherrin
I'm Joshua Sherrin, and I am running for mayor and alderman. I will make sure the council is focused on promoting local business and job opportunities. I think there hasn't been enough done for employers, workers or job seekers in the past and I want to change that.
We should build a giant pyramid using local labour to grow the economy. It's important we stop cuts to funding for schools and hospitals, which are already under enough pressure. I’ve seen computers change the world and the way we live, and for the council to stay in touch we need to embrace technology.
Self-service booths at Service Tasmania and the hospital can cut back waiting times and even save lives. Phone and internet services also need to be updated.
Fun fact: I love blasting The Mars Volta and just going nuts, but I also care about Launceston.
Rob Soward
I stood for a position on the council because I was a teacher who saw too many young people having to leave Launceston to look for work or a career.
I promised that if I was elected I would work to make our city one where there would be jobs, opportunity, development, facilities and events for people to enjoy.
I’m proud to say that Launceston in 2018 is exactly this. Many long-time residents say they cannot remember the city having so much positive development as well as the community having great confidence in the city.
There is still much to do. A reworked parking strategy to bring more shoppers into the city for discounted or free parking periods as well as the significant work we have committed to as part of the Taswater MOU that will see $400 million go towards fixing the river issues.
Fun fact: I watched the 2017 AFL Grand Final at Punt Road Oval Richmond with my son and cried when Dan Butler kicked the goal that put Richmond seven goals up with six minutes to play.
Paul Spencer
I am a strong believer in helping the community and ratepayers.
I am outspoken, passionate and hard-working. Most importantly, I am approachable and a down-to-earth person.
Disappointed that rates are increasing more than CPI and wage rises. Council needs to be more accountable.
Will endeavour to rectify council’s debt which has increased 10 million over two years.
My main goals will be to get shoppers back to central Launceston, maybe some free parking, this will help central small businesses.
I strongly believe in supporting local businesses. I support cleaning up the Tamar River, solving LGH car parking problems, fixing traffic issues at Invermay.
Karina Stojansek
As a current alderman of three years, a local business owner and senior manager for more than 20 years, and mother to two amazing young boys, I have a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer this community. I am well travelled, progressive, passionate and have strong financial, strategic and leadership skills.
I want to help create a healthy, livable, flourishing city with a thriving cultural scene that promotes its unique built heritage and natural beauty. An inclusive city where everyone has a place and a voice and feels valued. A city of choice where people want to live and raise a family.
We need a cohesive local govt that will work together to achieve the best outcome for this city. Please consider giving me your number one vote so that I can continue to work hard for this community!
Favourite quote: The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new - Socrates.
Tegan Sweeney
I have a background in Animal Studies, which has encompassed my compassion and has allowed me to develop a sense for those in need and issues that need to change. For example, the RSPCA is struggling and I feel that is absolutely not acceptable.
I am passionate about Launceston, our history, geology and architecture. I love art, so I’m often out filming and photographing our beautiful city.
I strongly believe that lately the council has wasted ratepayers’ money on unnecessary cosmetic changes first to the Quadrant, then Civic Square and now the Brisbane Street Mall. What will they do next?
Just think to yourself of the potential which the $260 million spent on useless redecorating could have been used for.
Mark Tapsell
I’m a small business owner of Aluman Engineering and Van Dieman Boats at Youngtown.
I am an outspoken supporter of recreational fishing and its worth to our local economy and have been strongly involved in the “No Supertrawler” campaigns previously held around our state.
We need more commonsense and less self-interest when making decisions pertaining to the future of our city and I will endeavour to apply just that in the role of alderman if privileged enough to be elected.
My passion will be assisting where possible, our local small businesses in order to maximise their full potential and growth within our region.
Even when things may not go as planned, it is important to me on a personal basis that I can demonstrate to those I am representing that I have given the task at hand a bloody good try.
People that know me will attest to my dogged determination.
Fun Fact: I believe I am an “open book” regarding my life experiences and happily embrace both past mistakes and achievements with the attitude of “if only I knew back then what I know now”.
Albert van Zetten
I’ve been an alderman since 2005 and am standing again for mayor and alderman.
The City Deal is making Launceston one of the best regional cities in Australia. But we can do more. I’m standing for mayor to help Launceston become one of the great regional cities of the world with an engaged community and strong leaders, a productive economy, an enviable lifestyle and great arts and culture. How? We’ll invite the hidden – and the well-known - leaders to form a Launceston Action Team. We’ll find out what you, the people of Launceston, are passionate about and support you to make the changes. We’ll attract more start-up businesses and create jobs. We’ll make your lifestyle even better and use this to attract new residents and visitors. We’ll fund great festivals and events and support fun and activities all year round.
Together, let’s be proud to make Launceston one of the great regional cities of the world.
Tim Walker
Hi, I’m Tim Walker and I’m running for alderman and mayor of Launceston because we need a transparent council, and a sustainable community future.
I would like a more inclusive community that balances development, planning and the environment.
My three biggest ideas would be keep Cataract Gorge for the people, aim for zero waste, and bring back a passenger train for the north east to Scottsdale. A mayor should provide unity and vision.
Fun fact: I’ve met three prime ministers.
Emma Williams
I'm running for alderman and deputy mayor. I’ve been a member of the City of Launceston council for the past four years, and have a background in environmental science, working predominantly in Northern Tasmania. I’ve also undertaken community development work overseas, and have a passion for sustainable development that supports resilient communities.
I’m excited to see Launceston establish itself as a leader in key areas such as economically-beneficial waste management and planning for carbon-neutrality, and see re-election as an opportunity to continue working towards better informed planning that protects the integrity of Launceston’s natural and heritage-based character, while supporting the social strengths of our suburbs and rural areas.
Fun fact: I think we can learn a lot from childhood truths, so an apt and favourite quote for me is from Dr. Seuss' The Lorax - “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It's not.”
Simon Wood
I was first elected as an alderman on the City of Launceston Council in 2014. I am focused on creating the right conditions for small businesses to flourish and opportunities for families to stay in Launceston.
With a background in retail, I worked for 20 years in a Launceston-based family business, giving me a real and practical understanding of how the local economy operates.
In my first term as Launceston alderman, I have worked to build our regional prosperity and I am proud to have have initiated funding to bring the Festival of Voices to Launceston, convinced council to commit funding for the National Rally Championships held recently in Northern Tasmania, which injected hundreds of thousands of dollars into our economy and ensured the rebuild of the significant convict-built boundary wall at Franklin House.
I have been a member of the Cityprom board, the Franklin House Committee and sit on a variety of council committees including Tender Review, Northbank and Australia Day.
I have been married to Zoe for 15 years and we are raising our children Lucy, 10, and Alexander, 6.
I have worked hard for our community and believe as your Alderman and Deputy Mayor, I can continue build our futures, taking Launceston to the next level.
Fun fact: After cooking lamb roast for my family, I love sitting down with my kids to watch The Lego Batman Movie.
- Candidates Ann Blake, Daniel Groat and Gary Madden did not submit their information.
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