I grew up in Switzerland, studied economics and worked in community development on five continents. After two decades as economics and finance academic I settled on the Western shores of Lake Macquarie seven years ago. I love the Lake and the country around it and want to contribute my experience to the work of our Council.

I focus on fostering a local economy that provides good, long-term jobs and sustains communities where people take care of each other and of the environment. I have experienced how local government can foster economic development that puts people before profits.

I am serving as the research coordinator for the the Coal-ash Community Alliance and working towards developing industries that safely use the raw materials in the 100 million tons of coal-ash stored around Lake Macquarie, rather than letting the ash slowly poison our lake only because that's cheaper for power stations.

Our Council can lead and facilitate economic development that meets the social, environmental and cultural needs and aspirations of our many local communities, from preschools and footpaths to skate parks, community hubs and infrastructure. I bring a wealth of community development experience from four continents coupled with a sound understanding of economic development in an Australian context to the work of our local council. I am familiar with many aspects of council operations and the institutional framework of local government in NSW and, if elected, can hit the ground running representing the West Ward.

The West Ward has some 45 localities, each with its own characteristics, communities, opportunities and needs. I want to make sure each community is heard by Council and has input into the decision-making process.