Big Q&A with Ballina’s local government candidates

Council elections are rapidly approaching, but many of those seeking election in Ballina are still a mystery to potential voters. The Echo has been trying to find out what makes the latest batch of candidates tick, beyond the statements in their PR material.

Some responded promptly, some were very slow, and some haven’t responded at all. The Echo suggests that readers contact candidates directly with any further specific questions which aren’t answered below, or via comments on this story. This may be your best chance of the entire electoral cycle to get a response!

Following are the answers to a group of questions we  asked of each of the candidates, from across Ballina’s three wards, ordered alphabetically by surname. It was a condition of participation for many that we publish their responses unedited, which we’ve done below.

If you want to skip directly to the people in your part of the shire, or those standing for mayor, that information is also included.

What do you love most about the Ballina region?

Andrew Broadley (candidate for B Ward and mayor): I love the character of the people in Ballina. I am privileged to share the experience of living here with people who are always ready to help out at short notice, people who give without any expectation of return and people who patiently interact with others.

As our population grows, I am looking forward to the diversity and talent that will build our community, and make Ballina an even better place to live.

Sharon Cadwallader (candidate for B ward and mayor): I love the people of our region. Their magnificence and generosity were demonstrated right from the start as my time as mayor when our region was hit by the worst natural disaster we’ve seen. Our people rose to the occasion – perhaps best remembered by the “Tinnie Army” – made up of boating people from Ballina Shire mostly who made their way through flooded roads to get to Lismore and then worked tirelessly to save people and their pets. My family included. Of course, that’s just part of the story, with so many more people helping however they could in the days and months that followed.

Simon Chate (candidate for C ward): I was originally drawn to the Northern Rivers in the pursuit of a top-quality musical education at Southern Cross University. Once I combined this with a Bachelor of Education, I was able to find work – now permanent – as a music teacher at Alstonville High School. I guess you could say that my search for a quality musical education brought me to this region. It was 1999 – and I’ve been here ever since.

I love this place! My wife, Shirley, and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. We brought up our two children here and have made a bunch of wonderful memories in the Ballina Region. We especially love the plateau community and have made some great friendships over the years. There is a strong sense of “heart” and community about this region.
On top of this, we have some of the most amazing landscapes and views on the planet. To be able to sit by the coast and watch the annual whale migration is a gift that not many communities outside our region will know.

We have a thriving business community in Ballina. We can pretty much find anything we need down here – and we’ve got a plethora of excellent boutique-style shops and a thriving café culture. And our kids love all the local Op shops as well. We have easy access to some beautiful forest, including remnants of the Big Scrub like Victoria Park, and some of our rivers and creeks are just stunning and host a myriad of wildlife.

Our biodiversity is stunning. We have endangered and threatened species such as koalas and platypus, pademelons and potaroos, wallabies and lyrebirds. We are host to birds and insects galore, many of which are in danger of extinction.

Therese Crollick (candidate for C ward): I love the lifestyle and the natural environment of the Ballina region and the many opportunities to participate in our community.

Kiri Dicker (candidate for B ward and mayor): Our environment. When I am walking on the beach and the sun comes up and I look out to Lennox Headland I just how extraordinarily lucky I am to live here.

Erin Karsten (candidate for A ward): The community – I have met some absolutely incredible people here. I have lived in 4 countries on 3 continents and Ballina just wows me. The diversity of people, the genuineness, the sense of fun, the love of nature, but also how many people I’ve met who are finding ways big and small to make a difference – whether it’s helping a friend, fundraising for good causes or planting trees.

Ballina is truly a special place!

Phil Meehan (candidate for A ward): The things I love most about the Ballina Region are the diversity in people, the natural environment, the relaxed lifestyle and the care and interest most people have for each other.

Steve McCarthy (candidate for A ward): I love the lifestyle. Proximity to everywhere. The people.

Alexander Sharkey ( candidate for B ward): What I love most about the Ballina region is the strong sense of community that truly defines this place. We live in a beautiful part of the world that encourages us to slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures, while also providing an environment where businesses can thrive, families can grow, and communities can come together. This sense of belonging and shared experience makes Ballina Shire incredibly special to me and my family.

It’s a place where people genuinely care about each other and the community, creating a unique and welcoming atmosphere that I’m proud to call home.

Why are you putting your hand up for Ballina Council this time?

Andrew Broadley (candidate for B Ward and mayor): I have genuine gratitude for my life here. I wish to return it with service to the community. I have experienced life as a member of a working family, balancing the cost of providing for a family while encouraging my children and partner to excel at their chosen activities.

I have the shared experience of many, which is commuting to work on the Bruxner Highway, involvement in local sporting clubs, volunteering in cultural and community activities. I am here to listen and serve the people of our community.

Sharon Cadwallader (candidate for B ward and mayor): I was honoured to be the first woman popularly elected as Ballina Mayor. I’m proud of what council has been able to deliver this term, including a record $74m public works program this year to continue the rebuild after the flood and try and ensure Ballina Shire has the essential services it needs to support our growing population.

We’ve achieved all this, while maintaining the lowest rates on the coast. I look forward to building on this successful record, working with my fellow councillors, in a second term as mayor.

Simon Chate (candidate for C ward): I have already had one term on Council. I originally decided to run for Council so that I could take a seat at the table on behalf of the environment. I believe strongly in sustainable development and prioritising our shire’s environmental health.

I am running for re-election as I don’t feel my work on council is done yet. I love to be able to help my community and have worked hard through my monthly Listening Posts to ensure clear pathways of communication between residents and council executive staff. I feel passionately about finding a balance between promoting healthy economic development and carefully protecting and enhancing our environment and its biodiversity.

I feel strongly that a healthy council needs a diversity of different voices and viewpoints.
I am standing for sustainable development, for protecting and enhancing our environment and its biodiversity and for finding ways to minimise possible future impacts from climate change.

I’m standing for finding a path towards more affordable housing within our shire. My voting record shows my clear support for the business sector and for new businesses within the shire. I am standing for transparency, for community consultation and for finding answers and resolution for my community. I am keen to protect the Alstonville Wollongbar buffer zone from development, to keep the two plateau villages separated by a protected green belt. I intend to continue to speak up for the need for more footpaths and shared paths within our ward.

I’m also keen to explore options for extending cycleways and shared paths between villages on the plateau right down to our coastal and riverine towns, and I’m keen to explore the possibility of designing and building a skate park or similar for the young people of Alstonville.

Therese Crollick (candidate for C ward): I am standing for Ballina Council because I have been doing some form of community service since I was 14 and see being a Councillor as one the greatest forms of community service and because two of the current Councillors in C ward are not standing for re-election, so we need two new Councillors.

Kiri Dicker (candidate for B ward and mayor): I’m running for Mayor this year because we need leaders who are going to put the environment before profits and human greed. We also need to strive towards consensus and try harder to work together. For the last term of Council its felt like there is 1 Councillor making all the decisions, not 10.

Erin Karsten (candidate for A ward): I come from a civic-minded family, and the best way to see change, is to be that change. After the floods in 2022, I thought that there was so much more that could have and should have been done to mitigate the risk and protect the community. Some flooded areas were a surprise even to those who were here in the ‘76 floods, like my partner, but there were other areas that have just been neglected for too long with poor mitigation plans in place. So, I’m putting my hand up to try and do better and help Ballina plan more strategically for our future.

Phil Meehan (candidate for A ward): I have been a Councillor for eight years and find the role engaging and rewarding. All councils need capable representatives who understand their community and can address needs with empathy and responsibility.

Steve McCarthy (candidate for A ward): To make in-roads to cleaning up the river mouth and creating more infrastructure towards the growing pains of sporting associations.

Alexander Sharkey ( candidate for B ward): I’m running for Ballina Council because I care deeply about the future of this community. After nearly a decade here, I’ve seen both the opportunities and challenges we face. As a small business owner, a former long-term renter, and now a first-time homebuyer, I understand the diverse experiences of our residents.

I’m motivated by a desire to protect what makes Ballina Shire special while ensuring it continues to grow in a sustainable and inclusive way. I’m not running with a personal agenda but am guided by shared values that reflect the needs and aspirations of our community.

What relevant skills or experience do you bring to the position?

Andrew Broadley (candidate for B Ward and mayor): I have demonstrated leadership experience through my role as President of Lismore Teachers Association. My representations to the State Council of NSWTF during March 2022 lead to securing the future of flood damaged public schools in our area.

As a candidate in the 2023 State Election I was proud of my involvement in changing the Government of NSW. Among the highlights of my campaign, I am most pleased with the visit that Rose Jackson, Minister for Housing, accompanied me with to Fletcher St Cottage. The NSW State Government now provides ongoing funding to this essential community service.

In 2024 I supported Rice Growers in the Northern Rivers to successfully correct an unjust restriction that limited their capacity to grow and sell their produce. I am hoping to gain further opportunities to develop my journey in leadership and advocacy.

Sharon Cadwallader (candidate for B ward and mayor): While I’m only a first-term mayor, my experience over 20 years as a councillor has been invaluable in being able to negotiate our Shire’s needs, especially after the flood. It helps to be able to go to Sydney or Canberra and, as an independent councillor, be able to make the case on issues, like the need for security cameras in Ballina, Lennox Head and Alstonville CBD areas and social housing and all things infrastructure. To be able to work with the government of the day, whatever their political persuasion is vital.

Over my 20-year career in local government, I have served on just about every council committee, have had multiple terms on Rous County Council and more recently served as Chair of the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation and 17 years as a volunteer on Essential Energy’s Customer Council. Experience does count and so does commitment, honesty, integrity and hard work, which I’m proud to have built a reputation for.

Simon Chate (candidate for C ward): During my first term on council, I have learned so much and now have a good understanding of how the Council process works.

If I am re-elected, I won’t need to spend another 6 to 12 months working out what it means to be a Councillor and how to go about the business of local government. I now have these skills under my belt and I’m ready to step back into the mix and work hard for my community and for our shire from the get-go.

Therese Crollick (candidate for C ward): I bring life experience to the role, I am and have been a community rep on a number of Council committees presently in Ballina and previously in Lismore.

I am involved with my community through Rotary, St Vincent de Paul, surf lifesaving, Alstonville LinC, Ballina hospital committees and the Ballina concert band.

Kiri Dicker (candidate for B ward and mayor): I’ve had a 20 year global career in the social sector, ranging from frontline case management roles to policy analysis, research and project management. I’ve worked all over the world, including over ten years in the Indo Pacific region working for the United Nations and some of the best known International aid organisations, such as Oxfam.

I have a Masters Degree in Community Development and Emergency Management and I will commence my MBA in 2025.

Erin Karsten (candidate for A ward): Everything about my professional career lends itself perfectly to contributing to Council. From my early days in law to working in sustainable building design and construction around the world, including having expertise in assessing renewable energy solutions and driving energy efficiency projects for some of the worlds biggest corporates (like Google, Intel, Pfizer, Bloomberg, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, American Express to name a few).

In addition to the technical aspects of my knowledge, I’ve held senior director level roles responsible for multi-million dollar operating budgets, and delivered strategic planning, risk management and change management plans for these corporates.

Phil Meehan (candidate for A ward): I bring integrity, experience in local government and demonstrated social justice.

Steve McCarthy (candidate for A ward): I consider myself a true Independent, more progressive than the average conservative. I helped lead the charge for the CERP, challenge alternative options for biodiversity.

Alexander Sharkey ( candidate for B ward): As the owner of Value Imagery, a media production company that works closely with local businesses, non-profits, and government organizations, I bring a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within our community. My work has given me insight into how to effectively communicate and connect with people, skills that are crucial for a council member.

Additionally, my experience as a small business owner, long-term renter, and now homeowner gives me a well-rounded perspective on the issues facing our residents. I’m committed to listening to our community and working collaboratively to find solutions.

What is your position on the Dunoon Dam?

Andrew Broadley (candidate for B Ward and mayor): This issue frustratingly becomes much more prominent in election campaigns. Despite the fact that water security is a serious matter that needs to be addressed calmly, some politicians use it as a scare tactic to influence vulnerable electors. The Dam is but one of the options for future water supplies to be considered by the members of Rous County. A prudent manager considers the positives and negatives of all options, takes in the advice of experts, and makes a considered decision.

Politicising this issue is not leadership. The cost of this project would significantly raise the cost of council rates. I doubt that it would obtain approval at State and Federal Government levels.

Sharon Cadwallader (candidate for B ward and mayor): I’m proud to have served on Rous County Council this term and supported the decision to continue the scientific work necessary so we can make an informed decision on whether it can be built. Anyone with a genuine understanding of the issue can appreciate that as we live in one of Australia’s most rain-abundant regions, it makes sense to capture that rain as the primary water supply source if possible. Our existing 70-year-old dam at Rocky Creek was built to serve a population of 25,000 and with the growth now supplies water to over 120,000.

Rous is investing heavily in finding other water supply sources, including bores, however people need to remember every other option is significantly more expense and potentially has greater environmental impacts than the dam. (For example, building a desalination plant at Shaws Bay or Tyagarah).

Simon Chate (candidate for C ward): I am uncomfortable with pushing for the Dunoon Dam to go ahead. Firstly, over the last 15 years or so, there have been at least two heritage impact assessment statements in which a significant number of aboriginal graves -at least 25 .have been found within the Dunoon dam footprint. The site is home to many important cultural artefacts and locations and the Widjabal Wia-bal people have made it absolutely clear that they do not wish this dam to go ahead. This land is very sacred to the Widjabal Wia-bal and this must not be ridden over rough shod.

Also, there are many threatened and endangered species within the dam’s footprint, including the genetically stable “Dunoon koala” which will be decimated through the loss of approximately 72 hectares of habitat should the dam go ahead.

I understand the state and federal governments are not interested in funding the dam, which means that we will have to fund it ourselves. The cost of this dam would be absolutely prohibitive. We’re talking more than half a billion dollars – and our community will end up paying for this from day one – without seeing any benefit for some forty years.
And there’s the often-quoted figure that we are only drinking about 3 per cent of the water that comes out of the Rocky Creek Dam, while all the rest ends up in our toilets, showers, dishwashers and on our gardens.

We are not managing our water use well. I recently read that recycled water and desalination have both been taken off the table as possible future water sources. I believe these should not have been removed from the mix, and would like to see a more balanced approach to water Security. Through the use of recycled water or subsidised installation of water tanks, we can decrease the amount of fresh drinking water that we flush, wash and hose away.

We need to look for a variety of water sources – not just doubling up the one rain dependent source – on the same creek. And yet, the heavily conservative Rous County Council continues to push for this option.

Therese Crollick (candidate for C ward): I don’t support Dunoon Dam, I believe there are better ways to ensure water security for our region and if you were going to build a dam then the current proposed site is not where you’d build it.

Kiri Dicker (candidate for B ward and mayor): It’s an idea that is stuck in the past, much like the people who are still promoting it. It’s just an excuse to continue greenlighting endless and unsustainable urban sprawl and industrial expansion.

We need to stop looking for simple solutions and embrace diverse and climate smart water options that will build a more resilient water supply system.

Erin Karsten (candidate for A ward): It does not make sense culturally, economically or environmentally.

Phil Meehan (candidate for A ward): All options in the Future Water Strategy need to be examined scientifically, environmentally and culturally without any pre-determined bias. This includes the Dunoon Dam option.

Steve McCarthy (candidate for A ward): Unfortunately, we need water security. Therefore, the dam must remain an option.

Alexander Sharkey ( candidate for B ward): My position on the Dunoon Dam is one of caution and concern. While water security is crucial, we must carefully consider the environmental, cultural, and social impacts of such a project. We need to explore alternative solutions that prioritize sustainability, such as water conservation measures, enhancing existing infrastructure, and investing in newer technologies that reduce the need for large-scale dams.

Protecting our natural environment and respecting Indigenous cultural sites should be at the forefront of any decision-making process.

What should be done to address the local housing crisis?

Andrew Broadley (candidate for B Ward and mayor): Local governments are trying to address this problem with limited resources. However, Ballina Council owns land that could be used in an optimal way to provide relief to people who are struggling to maintain secure housing. The opportunity for further feedback from the community to Council has to take place. When there is a shared vision of moving forward to create better outcomes for people caught in the housing crisis, then change can occur more rapidly.

Sharon Cadwallader (candidate for B ward and mayor): I’m proud to have supported Ballina Shire Council’s housing project in Wollongbar which will see medium housing density built adding to housing rental stock. I am currently working with Housing NSW to come to an arrangement with the decommissioned pods that have been used during the floods. An arrangement that would see the pods used for key worker housing. With the Richmond Police Command 40 officers short we need to be ready to house them when they are assigned to the region.

I see housing as primarily a responsibility of state government, however in times of crisis, you get in and do what you can to help. Ballina Shire Council has a solid track record for investing in commercial property and it is my view as mayor that if we can build on that expertise to support more housing options to rent, we can add to the housing stock of build to rent. That said, I am opposed of Ballina Shire Council taking on State and Federal Government responsibilities to provide housing at discounted rates which is a direct cost shift on to the ratepayers of the shire.

It’s also a major responsibility of government at all levels I believe to “get out of the way” and support investors to build more housing stock. On that front, I have instigated a review of the approvals system at our local shire level. Unfortunately, we are mostly tied up with red tape imposed by the state government and its exhaustive online approval system. However, once again, if we can do any more to help at the council level, I want Ballina Shire to be doing that.

Simon Chate (candidate for C ward): The Greens have a plan to address our housing crisis in Ballina. The idea is to build and maintain rental accommodation on Council owned land. There is a possible block of around 60 lots of residentially zoned land in Lennox Head that could be used. Council would build some beautiful rental accommodation, and then lease the homes to local workers at a specific proportion of their weekly/monthly income.

By providing this sort of accommodation, we would be offering opportunities for our local workers to remain in our Shire rather than have to leave Ballina Shire due to excessive market rate rental costs. With all adults in the homes paying a specified rate, e.g. 25 per cent of the total income, this sort of accommodation would be perfect for the lower to middle income working residents.

I would also like to see local government having a stronger say in the permissibility of non-hosted short-term rental accommodation, and the ability for councils to incentivise long-term rental accommodation.

Therese Crollick (candidate for C ward): I would like to see the “pods” built post ’22 floods be repurposed to provide affordable rental accommodation and I applaud the current Council for building housing on Council owned land at Wollongbar.

I would like to see Council build more accommodation of different types on Council owned land. The only issue I have with the current Council development at Wollongbar is that it doesn’t address the affordability issue.

I would like to see Council enter into partnerships with either organisations that are in the housing space e.g., Anglicare, St Vincent de Paul, Housing North Coast or State government bodies to provide subsidised rent or assistance to buy at a rate less than market value.

Kiri Dicker (candidate for B ward and mayor): It’s taken decades of neoliberal economic policy to get into this mess so its going to take about the same amount of time to untangle it.

Ballina Council can get started by building genuinely affordable housing for local workers on well-located residential land it owns in Wollongbar and Lennox Head. We should also seek to acquire the Wollongbar Pod Village from the State Government and use it to house temporary workers in the agricultural, healthcare and other sectors.

I want Ballina to follow in Byron’s footsteps and adopt and Affordable Housing Contribution Scheme to make big developers pay their fair share. Regulating short-term holiday letting and making it easier to live permanently in tiny homes are also things I believe will help.

Erin Karsten (candidate for A ward): We need to get enough progressive minded councillors elected who are willing to put people before profit and support Mayoral Candidate Kiri Dicker’s housing manifesto (kiridicker.com/housingmanifesto).

Phil Meehan (candidate for A ward): Council’s role in the housing crisis is to address its LEP Zonings and Development Control Plans to enable more diversity in housing types and potentially an expansion of green field sites. Availability and diversity of size and form are critical.

Steve McCarthy (candidate for A ward): Bring back negative gearing so investors return.

Alexander Sharkey ( candidate for B ward): The housing crisis in Ballina Shire demands urgent and innovative solutions. We need to increase the availability of affordable rental housing, particularly for our local workforce. Kiri Dicker’s groundbreaking proposal to create housing for our local workforce on council-owned land is a step in the right direction.

Additionally, encouraging the installation of solar panels and other energy-efficient measures in rental properties, both for residents and business owners, could help reduce costs, making housing more accessible and addressing our cost of living crisis.

Is there a role for local councillors beyond roads, rates and rubbish? If so, what is it?

Andrew Broadley (candidate for B Ward and mayor): Councillors must set a high benchmark for integrity and honesty. The character of our elected officials is a critical factor in how and what decisions are made. A decision comes to mind, recently made by Ballina Council that was contrary to the direction taken by Council administrators and 89% of community feedback. We should be asking why this decision was made? I would like to see a higher standard enforced over the rules that allow candidates to stand in areas that they do not reside in. Local Councillors are servants to the community and should be role models in work ethic and character.

Sharon Cadwallader (candidate for B ward and mayor): Absolutely there is. The great thing about having a diverse team at council is that the elected representatives can pursue their passions and bring matters to the council table that are of concern to them and the wider community. Of course, delivering the core services and trying to keep costs down for ratepayers is our core responsibility and I do believe councillors should always put that goal first. I’m proud to have supported others interested in serving in local government to run for council and I think this diversity and strong regard for the fundamentals is the common thread we have all shared.

Simon Chate (candidate for C ward): I have learned that the role of a councillor is so much more than just “roads, rates and rubbish.” It’s about gatherng all the facts, listening to all sides, sifting through information and asking the important and sometimes difficult questions. It’s about taking me to talk with community members, noting any concerns or issues and actively working towards finding solutions for them.

It’s about being prepared to put the hours in, visiting sites, talking with people, reading agendas, attending briefings and meetings. It’s about speaking up, sometimes loudly, sometimes quietly, sometimes speaking truth to power, but always with purpose and resolution. It’s about offering assistance and being an amplifier for the voice of others who may struggle to be heard.

Therese Crollick (candidate for C ward): Yes there is a role beyond roads ,rates and rubbish – we should be advocates for our communities and Region to State and Federal governments to ensure that we have facilities and resources that enable our residents to take advantage of technology for work and study, to enable them to have viable businesses, to have access to the best health and education facilities – a case in point Ballina hospital which needs a total upgrade and has not seen a dollar since money was promised nearly 8 years ago.

We also should have a role in ensuring our natural environment is healthy and support community groups and State government initiatives in this area.

Kiri Dicker (candidate for B ward and mayor): The Local Government Act directs Councils to facilitate local communities that are strong, healthy and prosperous. As long as it fulfils this objective and we can do it without placing an undue burden on ratepayers we should explore it.

Erin Karsten (candidate for A ward): Of course there is, if everyone “stayed in their lane” there would be no innovation and little opportunity for change or growth.

The Local Government Act 1993 provides councils with broad service powers and include things like strategic planning, financial responsibility and things like fairness and justice – all of which are the responsibilities of councillors – and nowhere does it say “stick to roads, rates and rubbish” which is the cry of those who resist change.

Phil Meehan (candidate for A ward): Councillors play a role in setting and demonstrating standards across communities. Care, social justice, environmental intelligence, and financial diligence are important.

Steve McCarthy (candidate for A ward): Today, it is much more. We are the most trusted government (Local). We are guineapigs of the state and absorb feedback for big state ticket items. We also implement the help accruing to people as a result of their co-operation which is more than the simple sum of parts.

Alexander Sharkey ( candidate for B ward): Absolutely, local councillors have a role that goes far beyond the traditional “roads, rates, and rubbish.” They are the voice of the community and play a crucial part in shaping the future of our region. This includes advocating for social issues, supporting local businesses, protecting the environment, and ensuring that public spaces are accessible and well-maintained.

Councillors should also work to enhance communication between the council and residents, making it easier for people to engage with local government and access the services they need.

Where do you stand on the climate crisis and the risks it brings for the region?

Andrew Broadley (candidate for B Ward and mayor): There is a delicate balance between educating people about this real threat, and making statements that cause unnecessary panic. I am frustrated that some in the community regard the events of 2022 as a statistical anomaly that would never happen again. When I was assisting in the evacuation centre at Xavier Catholic College during the crisis I became aware of 2 important things. Firstly, that this school was an incredible community made up of people who would do or give anything for those in need. I do not believe that Principal Kevin Lewis ever received the credit he deserved for his leadership at this time. Secondly, that the State Government of the time had not developed a sufficient plan about how to execute critical services and assistance. As an educator, with scientific qualifications, I must remind people to not become complacent. We have all seen the evidence.

Sharon Cadwallader (candidate for B ward and mayor): One of my greatest achievements has been to help build the national body driving local government response to climate change, which is the Australian Coastal Councils organisation, of which I have been involved in for 20 years and chair of for more than a decade. It’s an organisation that advocates on behalf of coastal councils and commissions research on behalf of coastal councils.

With the coastal zone being home to more than 85 per cent of Australia’s population issues like coastal erosion and the projected impacts of sea level rise are major issues along with the shortfall in resources to meet infrastructure and services along with legal risks faced by coastal councils in relation to planning for climate change. We advocated for a disaster mitigation fund and now a Disaster Ready Fund of $200m per year on disaster prevention and resilience has been established for flood levies, sea walls, cyclone shelters, evacuation shelters, fire breaks, and improvements in telecommunications.

Simon Chate (candidate for C ward): I am very aware of the climate crisis and pleased that Ballina Shire Council has declared a Climate Emergency. Our region has already suffered extensively as a result of changing weather patterns and, with Ballina Island being so low-lying, am concerned that we may experience further damage through sea-level rise into the future.

I would like to divest our many millions of dollars’ worth of investments completely from fossil fuel aligned institutions, investing them instead with fossil-free investment institutions. I would like to see Ballina Shire Council looking for opportunities to provide council-owned EV Charging stations throughout the shire.

We have just approved a Corporate Emissions Reduction Plan aiming for a rate of 100 per cent renewable electricity by 2030. This was important and we had to fight hard to ensure that this resolution was successful. In short, there are a number of areas in which Council can have significant impact in the quest for mitigating against the effects of a changing climate.

Therese Crollick (candidate for C ward): I believe the climate has always changed but it happened slowly over hundreds of years so both humans and nature had time to adapt, we are now seeing markedly increased climate change in such a short space of time due to human activity and our industrial practices and lifestyle, as a result we will see more and more intense storms, heat, floods, droughts and bushfires it will impact on our agriculture and our built environment and our incomes.

We’ve all seen how our home and other insurances have increased in just 12 months and our natural environment will suffer as well and that’s not good for tourism.

Kiri Dicker (candidate for B ward and mayor): Most people don’t realise that the first declaration of a climate emergency was introduced by Greens on Council in 2016. Today, over 1 billion people live in one of 2356 jurisdictions across 40 countries that have declared a climate emergency.

Climate action by local government matters because cities and towns account for 75 per cent of all carbon emissions worldwide. It’s a true testament to the “think global, act local” mentality.

Erin Karsten (candidate for A ward): It floors me that there are still people out there – who deny climate change is real – has the world not seen more fires, more floods, more severe storms and rising oceans in just the last few years then in the generations before us? We live in a beautiful coastal community that is at the frontline of rising oceans, the potential for relentless storms (rain bombs) and of course floods and fire at our doors! The more we can do to protect and restore Mother Nature, the kinder she will be to us in return.

Phil Meehan (candidate for A ward): Climate Change is real, we just need to reflect on the recent extreme winter temperatures. I support actions to address climate change that are achievable and doable by levels of government and individuals.

Steve McCarthy (candidate for A ward): Firstly, acknowledge it is a thing. We are already building, planning emergency roads, higher ground construction and emergency policies.

Alexander Sharkey ( candidate for B ward): The climate crisis is one of the most significant challenges facing our region. Ballina Shire is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and biodiversity loss.

As a Green candidate, I’m committed to taking strong action on climate change. This includes supporting renewable energy projects, promoting sustainable development, and protecting our natural environment. We must also work to make our community more resilient to the impacts of climate change by improving infrastructure and planning for future risks.

How do you balance the pressure of more people and the need to protect the environment?

Andrew Broadley (candidate for B Ward and mayor): Sustainable developments are critical to everyone’s health and well being. Council needs more levers at its disposal to prevent potential developments that would affect the movement of flood waters around residences or damage the balance of biodiversity in the immediate environment. The State Government has to move quickly to unravel the complex bureaucracy of planning laws that the previous government left behind. With better laws at State level, Councils will be able to carry out their roles more efficiently.

Sharon Cadwallader (candidate for B ward and mayor): This is undoubtably one of the greatest challenges for our region. Some estimates suggest up to half a million immigrants will arrive in Australia in less than two years. I know from the Citizenship Ceremonies I perform every couple of months that a substantial number of these new Australians will choose to settle in our region. And why wouldn’t they? We can’t simply put up a sign saying, “no rooms for rent”. This is a free country, and people can choose where they wish to live.

We need to make sure we build the homes, the businesses and the necessary infrastructure in a way that poses the least damage and risk to our precious environment, because after all, it’s the environment that makes people want to come here.

Simon Chate (candidate for C ward): In Ballina Shire, there are still several thousand residential lots available to be developed into the future. Many of these are on residentially zoned land already owned by developers, with plans and designs progressing and conversations being had at the highest level within council.

While residential land is a finite resource, there are options to expand housing opportunities within our shire already. For example, the State Government has just passed new legislation allowing dual occupancies to be built with consent on most R2 low density land. With these regulations in place, plus the large number of possible residential lots within our shire for future development, we have a good number of years of residential expansion ahead of us before we need to consider sterilising our environment for future housing.

I am also interested in the possible upward expansion of residential living as well – moving from a two-storey maximum to three or four storey accommodation – just like in many European cities.

We live in a beautiful part of the world, but we have to make sure that it stays that way. Our environment and its biodiversity are in need of real and constant protection and must be prioritised within the daily machinations of council business.

Therese Crollick (candidate for C ward): We need more education for new residents on the need to protect what we have, on the vulnerability of our ecosystems here, we need to build homes in a more environmentally friendly way so we don’t need to use our air conditioners as much, more medium density housing so that each development has more “green space” than is currently provided, more tree planting especially in backyards and in public spaces so that we encourage and maintain native wildlife.

Kiri Dicker (candidate for B ward and mayor): I don’t know, and I spend a lot of time wondering if it’s even possible, but I try and keep fighting for future generations.

Erin Karsten (candidate for A ward): It’s about making intelligent, long-term and strategic decisions – and also requires community discussion and dialogue about some of the tough decisions that will need to be made in the future. We need to start having serious local, national and international conversations about food and water security. We need to stop building on flood plains and realistically agree to densify areas that are appropriate.

Do I want to see Ballina look like the Gold Coast, absolutely not, but can we build 3 or 4 story apartment blocks in sensible locations to create more affordable housing options for young workers and families – we can if we are open to having reasonable and sensible conversations about what the future looks like. Not for tomorrow, not even for next year, but in 10 or 20 years and start working back from there. Project Management 101, start with the end in mind!

Phil Meehan (candidate for A ward): Ballina and the Northern Rivers has a wonderful environment. We do not have population pressure here as such. It is in the less developed and high population countries of the world that nations such as Australia can do more to support actions against carbon emissions. It is in those countries where the greatest advances can be made.

Steve McCarthy (candidate for A ward): Not sure. One step at a time.

Alexander Sharkey ( candidate for B ward): Balancing population growth with environmental protection requires thoughtful planning and a commitment to sustainability. We need to ensure that new developments are designed with the environment in mind, incorporating green spaces, energy-efficient buildings, and infrastructure that supports public transportation and reduces car dependency.

Protecting our natural areas, like the coastline and hinterland, is also crucial. This means setting clear limits on development in sensitive areas and investing in conservation efforts. Growth should not come at the expense of our environment, and it’s possible to achieve both by prioritising sustainable practices and long-term thinking.

Who do you see as your allies and who do you see as your opponents? Why?

Andrew Broadley (candidate for B Ward and mayor): I don’t have any opponents, even the people who do not vote for me are friendly and courteous. My allies are the people who want to restore faith in Local Government and give greater empowerment to the community in the decisions that affect them. My allies are the electors who want a fresh start for Ballina, with new leadership that represents the whole community.

Sharon Cadwallader (candidate for B ward and mayor): I try and work with everyone. Looking at the How to Vote cards I’ve seen so far, it would seem that Labor and the Greens and their allies like Phil Meehan will all team up to try and unseat me. We live in a great free democracy. Although this has been a relatively short term of council, I hope the people will appreciate the work I have done and honour me with a second term to finish the job. And I wish my opponents well.

Simon Chate (candidate for C ward): I see councillors and candidates with a strong progressive outlook and solid environmental credentials as being “allies” and I am also very happy to work with genuine open-minded independents. I would consider the group of conservative “independent” candidates, all unified in their agenda and support for our current mayor and their quest to “take over” council through sheer numbers as “opponents”.

We need a balance in Council. On my “how to vote” card, I will be advocating: 1: Simon Chate, 2:Therese Crollick & 3: Lois Cook. Within Council, I see a willingness to actively support environmental protection and enhancement as being paramount in a councillor.

Therese Crollick (candidate for C ward): My allies will be Councillors and residents who are going to “think outside the box” to embrace new technology and new ways of doing things to address our Shire issues, my opponents will probably be Councilors and residents who want to do everything in the same old way – some things shouldn’t be changed but the way of doing a lot of things should be.

Kiri Dicker (candidate for B ward and mayor): Having a Labor presence on Ballina Council will be critical to ending the conservative reign. Labor and the Greens can bicker all they like at the State and Federal level but we’ve so far had a good relationship with the Labor candidates and wish them the best.

Erin Karsten (candidate for A ward): I see my allies as open-minded progressive thinking councillors and community members who think all things in moderation. My opponents are only those who are not willing to listen, are not open to new possibilities, who refuse to compromise and find an amenable way forward, those who will not challenge the status quo and who think that profit means more than people.

Phil Meehan (candidate for A ward): I do not look upon any people as allies or opponents. Our role in the community is to get on with, support and care for all people.

Steve McCarthy (candidate for A ward): Don’t have allies or opponents. I believe a mixed bag of councillors will build the best debates.

Alexander Sharkey ( candidate for B ward): In today’s political climate, there’s too much finger-pointing, blaming, and talking at each other rather than talking with each other and the community. I see my allies as those who are willing to engage in constructive dialogue, regardless of their political affiliation.

My opponents are not individuals or parties, but the divisive attitudes and approaches that hinder our ability to work together for the common good. We need to focus on collaboration and shared values to address the challenges facing Ballina Shire, even when we disagree on specific issues.

What do you regard as the biggest challenges for Ballina, going forward?

Andrew Broadley (candidate for B Ward and mayor): The health of the Richmond River has been neglected for too long. Multiple reports have been tabled, the recommendations ignored. Ballina Council must commission regular water quality testing and publish the results. In 2019 a report to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment recommended the establishment of a Richmond River Coordinator. An employee who would work with all stakeholders to coordinate on ground works, arrange funding for repairs and plan for the restoration of the river. It is imperative that this happens quickly!

Sharon Cadwallader (candidate for B ward and mayor): In a nutshell, housing, the environment and delivering essential services for our fast-growing population while keeping our rates at an affordable level.

Simon Chate (candidate for C ward): It’s largely about money. Some of the significant challenges I see include:

• We need to create a functional, working council, recognising that while the new council’s political demographic may be wide and varied, it’s important for all councillors to find a willingness to work together for the good of the community.
• Locating sufficient funding to be able to fully implement the Greens affordable housing concept – the construction of a large number of diverse affordable rental accommodation homes on council-owned residential land in Lennox Head.
• Maintaining a healthy balance of allowing sustainable development within our shire while at the same time, prioritising the protection and enhancement of our environment and its biodiversity.
• Maintaining pressure on the State Govt to increase the police presence within the shire.
  Recognising the significant threat to our community posed by climate change – finding the political will and sufficient funding needed to meet the growing needs of our community and actively pursue solutions for climate adaptation and mitigation.
• Significantly increasing the funding (through grants, etc.) dedicated to the implementation and expansion of our biodiversity strategy.
• And actively working to fight back against the wildlife extinction crisis within our shire.

Therese Crollick (candidate for C ward): The biggest challenge for Ballina going forward will be keeping up with the infrastructure required for an increasing population and not degrading our natural environment or impacting on that easy lifestyle that we all love.

Kiri Dicker (candidate for B ward and mayor): Fixing the Richmond River. Ensuring the lawful and evidence-based application of Conservation Zones. Pushing back against the current Mayor’s lust for floodplain development. Ensuring housing affordability, just to name a few.

Erin Karsten (candidate for A ward): Biggest challenges?

• Sustainable development – which is the balance of meeting the housing need in a safe and environmentally responsible way.
• Mitigation and adaptation of the potential effects of climate change, including flood mitigation, water security and food security.
• Local business support – we need to find ways to help maintain the incredible cafes, shops and restaurants that make our community such a special place, not just for tourists, but for locals like us. We need to support the commercial and light- industrial business that helps keep our rates low and the agricultural businesses that nourish us locally and beyond. This means making sure we have affordable housing choices in the community, that we find ways to reduce the financial pressures on these businesses through community infrastructure like solar and batteries and that we support our local farmers by buying local every chance we get!
• Maintaining strong fiscal management over capital and operating budgets and obtaining funding from other tiers of government to help us respond to these challenges.

Phil Meehan (candidate for A ward): Going forward, the current ‘cost of living’ surge is a great challenge for many. This is why Council needs to prioritise financial stability while keeping rates, charges and fees affordable for all. This is why I believe councils should first examine where cost savings can be made before seeking rate rises.

Steve McCarthy (candidate for A ward): Traffic congestion, growing pains for sporting hubs; clean, operational river.

Alexander Sharkey ( candidate for B ward): The biggest challenges for Ballina going forward include managing population growth while protecting our environment, addressing the housing crisis, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of our local economy. We must also tackle the impacts of climate change, which will require strong leadership and community collaboration.

Additionally, maintaining a sense of community in the face of rapid change is crucial. As we grow, we need to ensure that our infrastructure, public services, and local businesses can keep up, all while preserving the qualities that make Ballina Shire a great place to live.

And in the mystery category…

At the time of publication the following candidates have not responded to our questions with answers, despite reminders. We will pursue them in coming weeks!

In alphabetical order, the other people standing for Ballina Shire Council are:

• B ward: Michelle Bailey
• C ward: Shona Barrett
• B ward: Tom Berry
• C ward: Lois Cook
• C ward: Simon Kinny
• A ward: Damien Loone
• A ward and mayor: Kevin Loughrey
• A ward: Maria Marshall
• A ward: Kay Oxley
• A ward: Mark Paterson
• B ward: Eva Ramsey

Local election day for Ballina and the rest of NSW is Saturday 14 September. Pre-polling opens locally on Saturday 7 September.

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