Shire of Capel candidates make their pitch for council seat

With local government elections fast approaching, the South Western Times is profiling each candidate vying for a council seat.

In the Capel Shire, seven hopefuls are in the race for four vacancies in what is one of the most highly anticipated contests in the region.

Among those who have thrown their hat in the ring is current councillor Doug Kitchen, while six others have joined the race for four vacancies left by outgoing shire president Michael Southwell and long-term councillor Murray Scott.

Councillor Debbie Radisich’s seat is also up for grabs after she resigned from the shire in July last year.

Ashley Dillon

Most people know me as Dillo. I am Capel Shire born and bred and have spent most of my 50 years in the area.

As a long-time broadcaster I would be a measured and articulate representative for the whole shire.

I know the area intimately. I was raised in Gelorup, played cricket for Boyanup and represented Capel in basketball.

I conducted quiz nights for the golf club for years.

I’m involved in the Capel District Cemeteries Project.

My wife and I are building our new home here.

My platform includes — fiscal responsibility, improvement of community assets and infrastructure, and continued support for community-based programs and events.

The Shire of Capel is an incredible place. I ask for your vote to help make it even better, and usher in a new era of respect and teamwork.

Peter McCleery

I am about community and supporting our volunteers delivering facilities like skate parks, libraries, sports ovals community centres and safe healthy environments.

I want avenues for everyone to be able to bring forward ideas. I am an honest, dedicated community person and aim to work positively with Shire staff and council.

I have lived in Dalyellup since 2001. My family as volunteers contributed to the early development of the town in creating the surf club and soccer club and support community events.

I currently volunteer on the DBCA Regional Park Advisory Committee, the Regional Development Australia SW Board, ECU advisory committee and I am a life member of Dalyellup Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

My skills in civil engineering, environmental and business will help to guide decisions.

Ross Slater

I am a Dalyellup resident with a strong voice and prepared to make myself available to the people of Capel Shire.

Having served three effective terms in local government, together with representing the electorate on numerous committees including finance, Outer Harbour taskforce, South West Regional Road Group, Coastal Enhancement Project Control Group and sister cities, I believe I’m sufficiently accomplished to continue representing local concerns and visions at council meetings.

Terri Sharp

I’ve lived in the Shire of Capel since May 2007 and raised my family here.

Through the many experiences I’ve had in my life, I feel my strength is how I relate to people.

I am passionate for the direction of this Shire and its residents to grow sustainably and sensibly, and how important it is to have the right representatives to be the conduit for engagement between local government and community.

Some of the important issues facing our Shire are reconnection, financial responsibilities and accountability, development, infrastructure, agriculture and mining, employment, housing, community including facilities and social services, water, environment and natural assets.

I hope to be an integral part of the new direction and positive changes within our Shire for this election.

Doug Kitchen

It has been a pleasure to represent you these past four years on your Shire council.

I ask for your support to continue serving you and your community. I am a lifelong resident of the shire, electrician by trade, dairy farmer and a volunteer firefighter.

I bring an enthusiastic attitude and diverse perspective on key areas that will help grow our community and all aspects within our shire.

I will push for increased funding in our local roads, promote our local economy, maintain quality community consultation, focus on the environment and strive for a financially sustainable shire.

Christine Terrantroy

I am a lifelong community volunteer, independent thinker, and solution-focused educator. I believe in equity and a fair go for all living in our shire.

I demonstrate integrity, honesty, kindness, respect, and compassion. I serve to build a connected and strong inclusive community.

I demonstrate fiscal responsibility, listen to and consult with my fellow residents, work as a team to build a strong connected community and follow the Local Government Act.

I practice a well-researched and balanced approach when dealing with controversial issues impacting the lives of residents.

I stand for environmental responsibility and sustainability, promoting cultural diversity,community safety, volunteers, providing infrastructure and programs to assist families and people at every stage of life.

Jon Starling

With your engagement I will strive to contribute to a vibrant and accountable council. My aim is to bridge gaps within council to safeguard the interests of not only Dalyellup but the entire Shire.

I believe in affordable sustainable growth based within the constraints of a changing climate economy by advocating a future-proofing strategy moving a decade forward.

My background is in marine engineering where an analytical approach and a can-do attitude has allowed me to excel in critical thinking to ensure successful outcome can be achieved.

I consider the future to be a mix of traditional enterprises and contemporary businesses, EcoHistorical tourism and investigate how the Shire can integrate new and emerging renewable markets. Sustainability is a must. Alone we labour, together we thrive.