Launceston City Council Election Candidates 2022
With the introduction of compulsory voting, Launceston and Northern Tasmania have attracted record numbers of candidates.
In Launceston alone, there are 33 people who have put up their hand to represent their local communities in a councillor position.
Aside the current councillors standing for re-election, there are 23 ‘new and not so new’ faces.
Bottom from left: Joe Pentridge, Steve Saunders, Kirsten Ritchie, Lindi McMahon, Tenille Pentland, Susie Cai, Fenella Edwards, Cecily Rozol
Middle from left: George Razay, Matt Garwood, Bruce Potter, Jarad Murray, Ross Marsden, Thane Brady, Nelson Tabe, Tim Gunton
Top from left: Owen Tilbury, Adrian Barratt, Jacob Gelston, Sam Hay, Andrew Lovitt, Bob Salt, Andrew Palmer
The compulsory voting ballot packs have been distributed throughout the region. Voting commences on Monday 03 October, 2022 and continues through to 25 October, 2022 with a cut off point of 2:00 pm.
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Mr Barrett, who has a background in music events, has a focus on parks for the suburbs, supporting for local businesses, clearer accountability for grant funding and also looking at Launceston’s suburbs.
“Like yourself, I live and work in greater Launceston, this is our home and where we raise our families, walk our pets, catch up with friends and visit loved ones I am not asking for your first vote but a vote, your vote for working towards a greater Launceston for all.
We all know there is a greater Launceston to be had, better parks and recreation areas in our suburbs, strong support for small and independent business fresh planning and development of strategies encompassing all of Launceston’s amazing suburbs and clearer accountability with grant funding. Let’s work towards that together.” https://www.adrianbarrett.com.au
Thane Brady
councillor & deputy mayor candidate
“Seeking your no. 1. vote placing people before politics. As a proven passionate advocate, I welcome the opportunity to represent you in making our city a better place. Having paid rates since the 80’s, raised a family, conducted business, and invested significant volunteer hours in our community I am well placed to understand the complexities and challenges we face.
I support addressing the shortage of sports grounds, investing in roads, improving transport, parking, and fixing our rivers. I believe in sustainable development and commit the time required to effectively represent you.”
BRAYFORD, Geoff
councillor candidate
Mr Brayford has an engineering and business background and is a member of the Launceston Rotary Club. He previously worked for council as a city infrastructure manager.
“I have a background in infrastructure with degrees in Engineering and Business. I was the “City Engineer” for Council for 13 years till 2009 and led the negotiations with the state for the renewal of the Invermay flood levees. I have worked extensively with natural hazards, and risk management. I have held senior engineering management positions in the Pilbara and Central QLD before returning to Launceston as on engineering consultant in 2015. I am a member of Launceston Rotary and was Tasmanian State President of Engineers Australia in 2006. I have the skill and energy to serve Launceston”.
BRITTON, Alex
councillor candidate
Mr Britton is a local restaurateur & business co-owner of the Levee Food Co. at Seaport.
“Running a business (I’m co-owner of Levee Restaurant at Seaport) requires a balance of considerations. What the client wants is the starting point. What services, the quality, price and staff morale/engagement are all important.
Running a city council involves similar principles but on a larger scale. I’m 30 years old with fresh ideas. With colleagues, Alan Harris (for mayor), Andrew Lovitt, Bob Salt and Owen Tilbury we share a (practical) passion for the kanamaluka/Tamar and solving its problems. Only an independent authority will resolve all the issues – & be able to act.”
CAI, Susie
councillor candidate
Susie is the owner of the Golden Brumby Chinese Restaurant.
“My name is Susie Cai. Most people know me as Susie’s Hoong Fatt from working in my parent’s restaurant opposite City Park, the Hoong Fatt Chinese restaurant. And all through my school years from 1988 to 1997, my teachers and school friends all knew me as Susan.
A local voice
I am a mother of three, educated at Glen Dhu Primary, Queechy High and Launceston College. During the past 18 years I have raised my family at our home at The Golden Brumby. My family and I have lived here and operated Chinese restaurants for over 35 years. During these years I have fallen in love with this beautiful
city, the people, and most of all its magnificent and unique buildings.
For the community
I have experienced a David and Goliath battle since 2019 fighting an inappropriate development that will have negative impacts on my business and home. It has taken a huge financial and emotional toll. It has shown me that our city needs councillors who are prepared to fight for the way of life that residents of Launceston have come to know and love. Residents who are fighting to protect their way of life need the assurance that they are not on their own, and their elected representatives will also fight for them. I will represent you with compassion and integrity. I will defend our lifestyle and heritage. I will listen to the community and represent your interests, not those of big corporations.
Hard work
I came from a hard working family, arriving in Australia in 1987 under my father’s skilled migrant visa. My early years were spent working alongside my parents at the Hoong Fatt Chinese restaurant, opposite City Park. I am hard-working, dedicated and not a quitter. From the age of thirteen I worked seven nights a week while attending school. If elected to Council, I will apply the same work ethic to delivering the best outcomes for all Launceston residents.
My priorities
If elected, matters that I will actively focus on include:
• Representing small businesses
• Traffic congestion
• Tamar River siltuation
• Climate Change
• Equality—ensuring minorities like migrants and LGBTIQ+ people get a voice.
That’s why I am standing as a councillor”.
DAWKINS, Andrea
candidate for councillor, deputy mayor
First elected to City of Launceston Council in 2014, leading to a rich and varied experience in elected representative roles. With a background in small business, I have been able to bring self-determination and independence to my Council decisions. My more recent employment experience has been in animal welfare, a lifelong passion. I am deeply committed to my role as councillor, ensuring that I manage my workload effectively I work collaboratively with all councillors, preferring a collegiate approach to decision-making, over the more adversarial style of local government politics.
EDWARDS, Fenella
candidate for councillor
Unfortunately her candidate statement wasn’t included in the booklet for the election. So, here’s a little bit more about Fenella.
GARWOOD, Matthew
candidate for councillor, deputy mayor
Matt Garwood is well known in Launceston for his theatrical and musical talent.
“Having been blessed with opportunities, I’ve always made it a point to give back. Working hard in the community I’ve gained hands-on experience as to what’s really important to people here in Launceston.
Born and raised here, I understand the issues because I’m living them today. Standing up for those issues that matter to you as they also matter to me. As a multiple Tasmanian Young Achiever of the Year finalist, I also bring committee experience with Encore Theatre & Harley Owners (state treasurer).
You won’t always find me in a suit and tie, but you will always find me with my heart on my sleeve”.
JACOB GELSTON
candidate for councillor, deputy mayor
Mr Gelston’s focuses for council include a solution for the kanamaluka/Tamar area, housing affordability and homelessness, pushing for more fitness/lifestyle programs, and having more inclusive spaces.
“Born and raised in Launceston, this city pumps through my veins. Having a small family of my own and running businesses, I know (and have) what it takes to get the job done.
My priorities are to give a voice to all families and businesses alike, along with implementing changes which can help the current housing crisis and giving our future generations the best sporting, arts and learning facilities possible!
GIBSON, Danny
candidate for councillor & mayor
Mr Gibson is council’s incumbent deputy mayor.
“I am unashamedly optimistic about Launceston. Our city’s best days are ahead of us; we have so much more to achieve. To capitalise on the opportunities, it will be critical for Council to be energetic, innovative, flexible and open to change. I hope that in my career in local government and outside of it I have demonstrated my ongoing passion for Launceston, my enthusiasm and drive, my work ethic and my ability to secure outcomes for our city. I am seeking your #1 vote. Ours is an incredible city and, working in partnership with our community, I look forward to being part of its next chapter”.
TIM GUNTON
candidate for councillor, deputy mayor
Mr Gunton has had a varied working life, working as a tradie, before spending 20 years at Telstra and the past 10 years working at NBN. He has a focus on the promotion of the many minor sporting clubs and providing recreation facilities for youth.
ALAN HARRIS
candidate for councillor & mayor
Alan Harris is a current councillor, having been elected in 2018.
“First elected to Council in 2018, with over 40 years of experience in business, government, Rotary and community service and a bold vision for Launceston, Alan is focused on cost-effective solutions, an open door to constituents and a strong advocate for community consultation. When elected, my priorities are supporting effective and responsible development, improving recreational facilities and parklands, lobbying for an independent authority to fix the kanamaluka/Tamar River, improving personal safety, parking, reinvigorating the CBD and optimizing the transport network. Our home, our future.”
HAY, SAM
councillor candidate
Mr Hay is a local businessman with vast experience as a business owner in a wide range of industries.
“I’m someone with a progressive outlook who isn’t afraid to speak his mind and stand up for the best interests of the community. I’ve owned businesses in multiple industries such as hospitality, retail and finance. I have a great insight into the challenges that business owners and employees face daily. I have also been an active supporter of many sporting associations as a committee member, sponsor and player.
The experience I’ve gained in my community involvement and operating my businesses has prepared me to be successful in a multi-faceted organisation such as the Launceston City Council”.
LOVITT, Andrew
candidate for councillor
Mr Lovitt is the present chair of the Tamar Action Group.
“The Tamar River deserves a ‘seat at the table’ after decades of neglect & promises not fulfilled. Our river has choking mud flats, invasive rice grass – and growing flood risk due to climate change.
Let’s restore & revive the Tamar. As chair of the Tamar Action Group, I’d appreciate one of your votes for Andrew Lovitt, with one to Alex Britton, Owen Tilbury and Alan Harris (for mayor). We all want an independent authority to choose the best option for the Tamar & to implement it. Let’s overcome bureaucratic inertia (for my career/qualifications google Tamar Action Group’)”.
MCKENZIE, Hugh
candidate for councillor, deputy mayor
Mr McKenzie is an elected councillor of 11 years.
“Experience matters and, with 35+ years’ experience in business and 11 years as an effective sitting councillor, I bring to this role strong governance and financial accountability to deliver affordable outcomes. With your support I will continue the work I have begun in driving decisions to make Launceston Australia’s most liveable city, supporting sustainable growth, investing time in community and advocating for a fairer distribution of regional costs. I will promote workable transport and traffic strategies to ensure we don’t end up like Hobart. My commitment to Launceston is proven”.
MCMAHON, Lindi
candidate for councillor
Lindi is a small business owner operating in the Quadrant Mall in her homewares store, Hope & Me.
“I’ve been a business owner for 13 years with real experience in finance, governance, marketing, events, and community engagement. I’m a committed community leader, dedicated to fully understanding the challenges and barriers of all our people. I will work to support our community through improved safety measures, further development, capping rates, finding real solutions to homelessness and our housing crisis, sound traffic management, tougher scrutiny on future capital purchases, and exceeding targets to finally clean up the Tamar River. Passion, purpose people”.
MARSDEN, Ross
candidate for councillor, deputy mayor
“I live and work in Launceston with strong connections to the city. A family man, business owner, media career and celebrant. I want our youth to have a voice, creating opportunities for future generations.
I’ll work hard to resolve issues through collaborative action, drive development, maintain Launceston’s heart and soul. I’ll represent the needs of our diverse population, individuals, families and local business. My eyes and ears are open to the people of this municipality, to create positive outcomes wherever possible. Please vote 1 Ross Marsden for councillor and deputy mayor”. ph. 0447 293 091.
MURRAY, Jarad
Candidate for councillor, deputy mayor
“My family and I chose Launceston as our home almost 10 years ago and we love it here! I run a small property development company that operates in the north of Tasmania and I stand for Sustainable Development. I appreciate what is already great about our city and I want to protect it’s character as it develops. Together, we can encourage development to further improve liveability and sustainability in our city and its surrounds.
I will bring a strong understanding of planning and sustainability as Councillor and will engage with the community to work together to bring about positive change”.
PALMER, andrew
candidate for councillor
PENTLAND, Tenille
candidate for councillor
“I’m a local hotel owner with experience as a managing director and as a qualified financial planner. I have demonstrated my vision through transforming our hotel into a global marketing brand. I am passionate about Launceston, and I will use my skillset to advocate: for community issues. I will bring the voices of the community and businesses into Council, as a real independent. I will take a measured approach to strategic planning for sustainable growth and future proofed design. I will work with our creative partners to activate art, culture, sports, and events for greater Launceston”.
PENTRIDGE, Joe
candidate for councillor
“Nobody should want to be a Launceston City councillor without loving the city and region, respecting its heritage and attempting to fulfil its potential. My records for all three criteria and justification for being a councillor might be found in the reinstatement of the heritage properties of the North Esk Powder Magazine, Luck’s Farmhouse, Glebe Farm and developments at McKenzie St, Murphy St, Invermay Rd, Mowbray St and Connector Park. Council decisions should be for the public good. Make Council accountable for its actions by voting for change”.
POTTER, Bruce
candidate for councillor
“Launceston is my home. It’s where I have grown my business, raised my family and built a life. I am very proud of this city and want to make it better for everyone. I owned the iconic Royal Oak Hotel for 42 years and helped grow Launceston’s arts scene and hospitality and tourism reputation. As a Vietnam veteran, I know what it means to serve our community.
We need a fair rating system, clean healthy river and strong employment. Launceston needs to be a safe, affordable and vibrant city with a healthy business sector. If elected, I will endeavour to be your voice”.
PREECE, Krista
candidate for councillor, deputy mayor
“Re-elect Krista Preece to ensure there continues to be an independent councillor and deputy mayor, who is approachable, honest, committed and continues to drive and support diversity and inclusivity within our community. Krista will continue to support, maintain, and grow our city by making decisions clearly and accountably, using best evidence and objectivity without discrimination or bias. Krista is committed to maintain and grow Launceston as an enviable and safe community that supports its lifestyle, educational institutions, businesses, tourism, health, culture, arts, sport and people”.
RAZAY, George
candidate for councillor, mayor
“I have spent 25 years working as a physician and geriatrician and was a 2021 Tasmanian Australian of the Year nominee, as well as conducting research and giving public presentations on dementia.
My goals include promoting a healthy, happy and active community by playing an active role in public health; combating air pollution and traffic congestion; revitalising the city centre; supporting homeless: people especially with the increased cost of living and worsening housing affordability; improving the health of the Tamar River; promoting respect for seniors; and supporting the young generation”.
RITCHIE, Kirsten
candidate for councillor, deputy mayor
ROSOL, Cecily
candidate for councillor
“I am a counsellor, registered nurse and foster carer. I listen, care and support people to live well, speak up for people when they can’t speak for themselves. Town planning, housing stress, inequality and climate change affect our health and happiness. I will work with people to address these matters.
I will speak up on housing and work for a greener city. I will encourage ideas that support people to enjoy our public spaces and join in arts and recreation. As your Tasmanian Greens councillor, I will bring people together, listen and then speak up for the community so we can live well”.
SALT, Bob
candidate for councillor, mayor
Bob Salt has been in business for himself and recently stood as a candidate in the recent election.
Who is 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 grandfather of Frankie and Loule.
I currently operate a small state-wide business which mainly operates out of Northern Tasmania.
Communication, cooperation and community service is key if we want to continue to ensure Launceston Is a vibrant and welcoming city 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 for many community organisations including Lions International, Rotary, Festival of Dance, Bowls, Netball, Man’s Shed and South Launceston Football Club
Can I make a difference
I promise you that will work to make Launceston an even better city and I will be your voice.
Issues that will be my primary focus are:
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- Traffic congestion
- Public transport, parks and picnic grounds
- A clean Tamar River
- Waste in council
- Accountability
- Rate increases
- Sensible development
- Facilitate council amalgamation Community forums where your voice WILL be heard
Please contact me and tell me your views on how we can make Launceston a better place.
SAUNDERS, Steve
candidate for councillor
Steve Saunders is a Community Independent with no links to political or business affiliations.
“I’m one of the new breed of community independents and have no political or business affiliations. I want to consult with and represent you. I’ll bring new ideas and energy to the challenges we face on city growth, housing and homelessness, Aboriginal land justice, promoting EV use, local food security, maintaining Launceston’s heritage character and liveability, & the Tamar mud. My experience in corporate IT, my committee & evidence-based decision-making skills will help me make us a more resilient community, with a sustainable future”. Chat with me on 0411 851 412 or see http://stevesaunders.com.au
“I want to consult with and represent you. I’ll bring new ideas and energy to the challenges we face on city growth, housing and homelessness, Aboriginal land justice, promoting EV use, local food security, maintaining Launceston’s heritage character and liveability, & the Tamar mud. My experience in corporate IT, my committee & evidence-based decision-making skills will help me make us a more resilient community, with a sustainable future.
A few of the challenges that need urgent attention in Launceston are:
The need for more long-term rental properties
We only need 100 extra rental properties to reduce rental stress.
Council could:
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- Cap short-term rentals without affecting existing investors.
- Incentivise the owners to return empty properties to the long-term rental market.
- Be proactive in supporting those experiencing domestic violence and homelessness by consulting those affected.
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Living up to the declaration of a climate emergency
Council could:
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- Encourage Electric Vehicle uptake by various means, including EV parking concessions.
- Ban fossil fuel advertising.
- Implement and promote the 7Rs sustainability options: Rethink, Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Repurpose, Recycle, plus initiate a ‘Repair Café’.
- Research the transition to a highly flexible electric public transport system.
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Protecting Launceston’s natural environment, architectural heritage, and liveability
Council could:
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- Stop ‘Disneyland’-type tourist developments that spoil our natural heritage for local people.
- Audit more buildings that need heritage protection.
- Work for better negotiations between developers and residents to minimise the adversarial nature of development, against which residents are at a disadvantage.”
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SPENCER, Paul
candidate for councillor
“I have been married to my wife Margy for 41 years. I have 5 adult sons and 6 grandchildren. I have been a hard working electrician for 48 years.
I was elected to Council in 2018 and have been an energetic councillor and have kept Council accountable with challenging questions. I have voted no when residents were greatly effected with DA’s, and I have a strong voice for Launceston ratepayers and the community. I believe in Council to be more transparent with all transactions. I believe in reduced parking fees, late night shopping and solutions to help kanamaluka/Tamar River”.
SUITOR, John
candidate for councillor
“Served 10 years on Circular Head Council, 4 as deputy mayor, 3 on the NW Regional Water Authority, chairman of CHC planning body, 13 yrs on the Launceston City Council Tamar River Improvement Authority. Former chairman of Queechy High School Council, retired registered land surveyor, CH Apex life member. If elected, to reduce traffic congestion would push for another bridge over the Tamar, better roads, services & health care, safe walking track at Windermere, would not waste ratepayers’ funds in pursuing issues outside the city’s control”.
TABE, Nelson
candidate for councillor
TILBURY, Owen
candidate for councillor
“I’m an optimist, a doer, who’s passionate about making Launceston one of the great regional cities of the world. My wife, Helen, and I founded the BOFA Film Festival. My projects include Great Regional City Challenge, Tasmanian Innovation Awards, Ravenswood Walk Tall, Gigabit City. I’m in the Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame and was shortlisted for Tasmania’s Senior Australian of the Year.
There’s more to be done, like fixing the Tamar. I’d love it to be clean. Mud and ricegrass-free. A recreational treasure for everyone. I’ll work hard for an independent authority to make it happen. Let’s act”.
WALKER, TIM
candidate for councillor, mayor
Mr Walker is a current standing councillor in Launceston.
“Ex-ABC journalist & political advisor. Launceston councillor with the strongest track record of standing up for our community on Council, submitting more motions than anyone else to improve our city, support our most vulnerable & advocate for transparency.
We need a strong, proactive, & progressive mayor with a clear vision & plan to stand up for Launceston! We need to increase affordable housing, bring life to the CBD, reduce parking costs, protect our built heritage, restore the Tamar, green our shopping precincts & improve community consultation”. See the plan > www.timwalkerformayor.com.au
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