FAQs

I am not endorsed by or answer to a political party.

I will remain completely independent, making my priority the resident, rather than a political party.

I have a strong business background, owning and running multiple businesses, working in retail and food industries, including corporate; I obtained a MBA from Swinburne University in 2017.

I’m also very capable of critical thinking, and I’m open to hearing all points of view not just those that suit my own beliefs.

Climate discussions are complex. As an avid environmentalist and conservationist, I am deeply concerned that the push towards carbon neutrality isn’t considering the real environmental impact or the implications and redundancies for current and future lifestyles.

There’s a concerning emphasis on producing more products and upgrading technology without addressing pollution or planning for end-of-life management.

Human rights abuses associated with these initiatives also require closer scrutiny. In the electrification consultation sessions I’ve attended, misinformation has been prevalent, unfairly affecting residents relying on accurate information from Banyule.

I’ll ensure transparent, responsible, and genuine sustainable development and procurement while maintaining the character of the area.

Personally, I find Shaping Banyule CC’s approach lacking. The reported average conversion rate of visitors to Shaping Banyule across projects since July 2023 is 4.75%, meaning a minuscule fraction of residents’ contributions determines Banyule CC’s policies. This method needs reevaluation for greater user-friendliness and inclusivity.

I believe councils should prioritises local issues on matters directly impacting residents and not make comment on international conflicts.

I’ve been actively interacting with Banyule for at least 15 years, and I also speak on these and other topics at Banyule CC Ordinary Meetings.

The recordings that I have marked where I speak are available or on my Facebook page, Instagram and X for public viewing.

 

I want to be part of and help build a community that is thriving and truly inclusive, not just in words but in actions as well.

I want to ensure that resources are used appropriately and with transparency where all differing opinions can be part of the conversations.

I’ll ensure transparent, responsible, and genuine sustainable development of homes and infrastructure as well as procurement of materials, all while maintaining the character of the area and respecting the needs and preferences of the community.

I’ll ensure the council prioritises local issues, supports small businesses over big conglomerates, and genuinely consult on matters directly impacting residents.

I believe the handling of the 2020-22 lockdowns and service limitations was inappropriate. I oppose such restrictions on movement in what should be a free country, and I hope to never see similar measures enforced by local government again.

I’ll support all demographics; I’ll not discriminate against any residents or visitors to Banyule, we are one community.

I’ll safeguard and increase all residents’ employment, sports and service opportunities.

Family and friends are important to me, and I want to ensure everyone can celebrate their heritage respectfully with those they love.

I know that most of this would be considered taboo topics these days however if we are to be a flourishing community these we need to be truly inclusive.

Myself and several residents were collaborating with Banyule City Council to advocate for a more unified approach in our inclusivity policies. We believed that instead of listing specific groups, it would be more effective to refer to all residents collectively as “everyone” or “they.” This perspective is rooted in the belief that specifying groups can create division rather than fostering a sense of community, this idea was overlooked in the conversations.

By adopting language that emphasizes our shared identity as residents of Banyule, we can promote a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all. This change could help us focus on what unites us rather than what sets us apart.

 

No, it makes me sad to hear people suggest otherwise.

I support people to be who they are and voted yes in 2017 Same Sex Marriage plebiscite.

Regarding drag story time, I’ve noticed that these programs are no longer part of the offerings. If they were to be reconsidered, I would want to understand why adult performers are viewed as appropriate role models for toddlers and young children. I would advocate for promoting a wider range of professions as role models before considering adult performers.

I know this is a divisive topic, and to be transparent, I actually used to champion a change in dates. However, since having other information presented to me, including the Nationality and Citizenship Act 1948 being passed on the 26th of January, which made all citizens Australian and not British, I understand why January 26th is used for citizenship ceremonies.

Additionally, it became apparent to me that the concern about celebrating Australia Day was not shared entirely throughout the Indigenous communities.

Therefore, I would like to see Australia Day back on the Banyule City Council calendar for residents to celebrate or mourn as they choose.

Well, I am part crazy cat lady, obsessed dog person and chicken rescuer. I probably would have been quicker delivering my campaign material if I didn’t stop to pat all the dogs 

I spoke with all the current councillors about the Cat and Dog Public Order personally and also publicly during Ordinary Monday Night Meetings twice.
I am already preparing irrespective of election outcomes to get involved in the Domestic Animal Management plan.

I am also conscious that not all residents are as enamored with our furry families as we are. Therefore I will always consider other viewpoints whilst seeking accurate information and thrive to make sure there is harmony and respect within the community.

Yes, incredibly.

I have spoken many times at council meeting calling for Banyule to be more aware of the real burdens of household currently.

The added strain of rates that are being spent on non necessary projects instead of roads, rubbish and basic services continues to impact residents.

That is why I call for more transparency and better consultation so that Banyule Officers and Councillors answer to the residents regarding to how money is budgeted and spent.

I am very keen to hear feedback from residents in relation to how money is spent.

I live in Watsonia North.

I am running in IBBOTT instead of GRIMSHAW as Councillor Garotti has a solid track record with getting results and a finance background which is much needed in Banyule.

I hope this map is helpful.

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Yes I strongly support the acceptance and use of cash for several reasons.

1. Privacy, people should be able to buy and access services without scrutiny from governments and corporations.
2. Redundancy, digital although it absolutely has its place cannot be trusted to be on 100% of the time. We have seen many instances especially in the last few years where digital options have failed and businesses have been left in the dark.
3. Security, cybercrime and hacking of institutions is only becoming more prevalent, cash cannot be hacked.
4. Cash transactions give individuals greater control over their finances. By using cash, you can limit your spending to the amount of money you have available, avoiding the risk of overspending or going into debt.