Councilor Nik Lipovac announces candidacy for mayor

CURRENT councillor Nik Lipovac has officially declared his candidacy for the position of mayor in the upcoming Port Macquarie-Hastings City Council local government elections on 14 September.

Cr Lipovac, a well-known figure in the community for almost two decades, has assembled a diverse and respected team to support his campaign.

Cr. Lipovaca’s team includes Jon Bailey, long-time resident and television cameraman; Ellen Crepaz, a passionate community activist and project coordinator; and Luke Garel, a renowned entrepreneur.

Together they are campaigning on a platform highlighting the Council’s core responsibilities, including maintaining and improving roads and footpaths, water, sewerage and waste management services, and recreational and sports facilities.

“Our commitment is to maintain, modernise and provide more of what Council should be doing – ensuring our core services are of the highest quality,” said Councillor Lipovac.

“However, we also plan to think long-term and financially responsibly, focusing on the infrastructure, housing and transportation needs of the region.”

Councillor Lipovac also emphasised his commitment to increasing communication, transparency, accountability and integrity in the Council.

He emphasised the importance of respecting the work of Council staff and the views of the community in decision-making processes.

“I expect the new Council, made up of representatives from different groups, to work together and create its own team of nine independent thinkers for the good of the community,” he said.

Throughout his term on the Council, Councillor Lipovac has spoken out on a variety of issues including the need for a new housing strategy, supporting local businesses in securing Council tenders and improving sports facilities.

He also emphasised the importance of maintaining positive relationships with members of state and federal government, as well as local chambers in Camden Haven, Wauchope and Port Macquarie.

One of the key points of Councillor Lipovac’s campaign is his opposition to the proposed referendum question, which aims to reduce the number of councillors.

He and his team are urging the community to vote “No” on the issue, arguing that reducing the number of councillors would negatively impact community representation.

Jon Bailey, a Hastings resident for 37 years, is an experienced television cameraman who has seen the region develop over the decades.

He is passionate about strategic planning for future growth and believes in strong, coherent leadership at Board level.

Mr Bailey’s deep involvement in local sport and work with the charity Make A Difference has given him a unique perspective on the needs of the community.

Ellen Crepaz is the project coordinator and founder of Mid North Coast EaTs.

With over thirteen years of experience in government initiatives and stakeholder engagement, she is passionate about advocating for issues such as homelessness, mental health and community engagement.

Luke Garel is a small business owner with deep roots in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region.

Mr. Garel is involved in activities to support local businesses and develop the region’s sports infrastructure.

He has a keen interest in ensuring that the Council delivers essential infrastructure upgrades and is focused on planning for the future development of the region.

By Luke HADFIELD