I recently retired after more than 18 years as works manager with Oberon Council.

My entire 38 years professional career has been as a local government engineer, working for seven councils across five states and territories. As a result, I have acquired detailed knowledge and experience of most functions of local government. The provision of public services has always been a major factor in my decision to work in local government.

As an engineer, my primary interest will be in the provision and maintenance of physical infrastructure - roads, water supply, sewerage, drainage and parks. I am proud of the part I have played in the significant expansion of council's sealed roads network over the last two decades. We have always tried to ensure these services have been distributed equitably across the entire Local Government Area (LGA).

The biggest factor limiting improvements to local roads is the amount of funding allocated by council. As a councillor I will be alert to any opportunities to increase this funding, as well as efficiencies in the way roads are constructed and maintained.

However, this is not to minimise the importance of other services, such as the library, swimming pool and aged services.

I am conscious of focusing on the long term, "big picture" aspect of any issue, not simply dealing with the problem of the moment. 

I hope to contribute to ensuring proper financial processes and long-term financial sustainability. These are important in their own right, as well as critical in the event of any future attempts to force Oberon Council into an amalgamation.

I support council retaining its own skilled workforce and plant fleet, and carrying out works in-house as much as possible.

I have always worked hard and conscientiously and honestly, for the benefit of council and the community. I hope residents will support me so I can continue this contribution.