Who will come out on top in race for Bunbury Mayor seat?
Local government election nominations have closed and the Bunbury residents prepared to battle it out for the top spot of mayor have been finalised.
After eight years leading the city, Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan, pictured, is stepping down.
Polarising local government figure and outgoing Capel Shire president Michael Southwell has thrown his hat in the ring for Bunbury after announcing he would not contest his current position.
Mr Southwell has his sights set on change in his election campaign to help Bunbury become “WA’s best, most liveable city”.
Bunbury City councillor Tresslyn Smith is among the six current councillors to stand for mayor and plans to lead Bunbury in a new direction while dealing with climate change, preserving its heritage and listening to the community.
Candidate Gabi Ghasseb’s family has been in Bunbury for 50 years and the local businessman says his vision for the city as mayor is a “vibrant port city metropolis with full services to enhance families and businesses.”
After eight years as a councillor and four as deputy mayor, Jaysen De San Miguel is ready to take charge. He says he has a future focus for Bunbury and is keen to lead a proactive council, promoting business and community stakeholder collaboration.
Alfred Leigh has 10 years of local government experience and he plans to bring strong economic management, communication and leadership skills to the role to make Bunbury a more liveable and progressive city.
Bunbury City councillor Amanda Yip’s leading message is it’s time for a new style of leadership and a fresh vision for Bunbury.
Cr Yip promises to bring a youthful, energetic and bold take to Bunbury’s future and help create thriving suburbs, solve environmental and housing challenges and create opportunities for young people.
Councillors Michelle Steck, Betty McCleary and Cheryl Kozisek are also in the running.
Cr Steck plans to bring greater support to the community, tackle issues of drugs and homelessness and address the town planning scheme, while Cr McCleary hopes to enhance Bunbury by focusing on championing innovative developments.
Cr Kozisek says she is committed to fighting for small business, championing the waterfront development and creating more tourism opportunities.
Dolphin Discovery Centre CEO David Kerr received an Order of Australia Medal in 2019 for his services to Bunbury and now he’s ready to serve as mayor.
He hopes to create a cooperative environment around a clear vision for Bunbury to help advance the city as a safe, caring and vibrant community.
Elections will be held on October 16.
Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.
Sign up for our emails