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Local government by-election

Sorell Council

Instructions and candidate statements

Accessible HTML format. Statements are also available in PDF format with candidate photos and web links.

Your vote must be received by 2 pm on Thursday 20 June 2024

Voting is compulsory

Information

There are 2 by-elections being held for Sorell Council:

As well as this booklet, your postal ballot pack contains:

The elected mayoral candidate can only accept the position if they are either a current councillor or the newly-elected councillor.

The mayor and councillor you elect will serve until October 2026.

For further information, help, or to learn about the TEC's Impartial Assisted Voting Service, visit the TEC website or call 1800 801 701.

Postal services take a number of days, so it is important to complete and return your vote now.

Your vote must be received by 2 pm Thursday 20 June 2024

Failure to vote may incur a fine.

Don't delay – late votes won't be counted!

Instructions

Follow these five easy steps:

1. Get to know the candidates

Candidates were invited to provide a statement and photo for your consideration*.

Statements appear in alphabetical order but the names on the ballot papers are rotated.

The online version of this booklet contains web links where provided by candidates.

2. Record your vote

Number the boxes on each ballot paper from 1 onwards in the order of your choice.

3. Make your vote secret

Put your completed ballot papers in the ballot paper envelope and seal it securely.

4. Validate your vote

Sign your ballot paper envelope — your vote won't be counted if you don't sign.

Then put your ballot paper envelope in the reply-paid envelope and seal it.

5. Post your vote

Post your reply-paid envelope straight away (no stamp needed), or take your vote to the Sorell Council office.

*Statements are reproduced substantially as supplied by candidates.

BLAKE, Jeffrey

Candidate for councillor, mayor

I'm an innovator, small business owner and opening bowler for the Dodges Ferry Sharks T20 champs. Sorell is the fastest growing municipality, let's become the smartest! Partner Sorell with NASA. Get the kids off the streets and into astronaut suits and make Primrose Sands the next Silicon Valley. Dunalley Canal is ideal for an olympic swimming pool and Nugent needs an agricultural institute. A new stadium in Dodges Ferry with a Neil Davis film school will pay for all the community development needed and more - Go Sharks. Kerry's done wonders so let's grab the ball people and fly!

GATEHOUSE, Janet

Candidate for mayor

As a Sorell councillor for the past two years, I have worked closely with our community. I have a sound understanding of what is required for our region's healthy future. As mayor I will lobby all levels of Government to support our region's growing needs. My strength lies in collaboration and identifying opportunities. I value all 18 of Sorell's communities and recognise the fragility of our environment. In these testing times I will enable progress without costly disruption. I am a mum, wife, Sorell School canteen manager, TFS volunteer and friend. Please Vote 1 Janet Gatehouse for mayor.

HORVATH, Kristian

Candidate for councillor, mayor

My vision is for a council that improves the lives of all residents, genuinely consults the community first in any major project or initiative, incorporates their ideas, experiences and talents, and implements creative solutions.

Together we can create volunteer-driven shuttle bus services, upgrade playgrounds to suit all ages, levy whole-house short-stay accommodation, trial a community voting system and much more. I am a project manager at a not-for-profit organisation, and as a volunteer, I coordinate the Sorell Community Network, the Sorell free food program and 4 free food cupboards.

LARKINS, Michael

Candidate for councillor, mayor

Hi, I am Michael Larkins and I am running for mayor and councillor. As a long-term resident and business owner within the community I am committed to its ongoing growth and prosperity. Having spent a large majority of my time building connections and giving back to the community where I can within my business, the success of the Sorell municipality has always been a passion of mine.

I understand the importance of building a strong community by supporting small businesses, creating local job opportunities, and investing in infrastructure that benefits all residents.

LORING, Steve

Candidate for councillor

I bring strong communication skills and valuable training to my candidacy, with senior council management experience on leadership, project, and tender teams, as a small business owner, Sorell Lions Club member, and real estate agent. Living and working locally, I build lasting connections with residents and business owners.

I believe in responsible financial management, keeping rate rises minimal, and I'm eager to work with councillors and community groups on key issues. Sorell is the state's fastest growing region, and future development must be balanced with improved services.

MIRÓ QUESADA, Marisol

Candidate for mayor

As a councillor, I've been listening and representing you on the things you have told me are important. You have described a vision for a connected region of distinct communities, and for a council that works to improve quality of life for people who live, work, and play in our region. This includes better transport, jobs, caring for the environment, access to health services, and supporting children and young people.

I am asking for your support so that I can advocate for this vision and lead a collaborative council that works hard to represent you and get things done. Visit marisol.com.au

REED, Melinda

Candidate for mayor

I offer a skilled and steady hand along with the passion, dedication and know-how to work with people from all walks of life, build on Council's achievements and strengthen community wellbeing across Sorell and the south east.

Councillor for 5+ years, Dodges Ferry local since 1992, generations of community connections and 30+ years of professional, volunteer and government experience. Thoroughly qualified and well prepared to serve as your mayor; a trusted advocate and effective leader working for thriving, welcoming, connected communities; treasuring the local character and lifestyle we love.

SPENCE, Jason

Candidate for councillor, mayor

As a former Sorell Council employee, I saved ratepayers money by renegotiated contracts, assisting police at reducing vandalism, thus lowering repair costs. My knowledge of the Local Government Act and internal operations makes me a strong candidate for improving on service delivery. As residents we need better maintenance, response times, and facilities. Playgrounds should not have been constructed without parking, toilets, and change tables. If elected, I pledge to serve with integrity, free from bias and political agendas. I will advocate for you, the ratepayers. I ask for your support.