Marian Smedley to stand in South Barwon

ANOTHER face familiar to local voters has thrown their hat in the ring again, with Marian Smedley announcing she had been endorsed as the Greens candidate for South Barwon in November’s state election.

The Deakin University teacher, who lives in Torquay, previously ran as the Greens candidate for Torquay Ward in the 2016 Surf Coast Shire council elections.

She joins incumbent Liberal MP Andrew Katos and Labor candidate Darren Cheeseman on the ballot paper for South Barwon.

Ms Smedley said protecting the environment and restoring integrity to government decision-making were two of her top priorities.

“I’m very aware that protecting this area from over-development is an important issue for most people, and it’s something that strikes a chord for me, too.

“We face major challenges in managing growth and ensuring developers meet community expectations.

“It is certainly a fine balance and key to maintaining the unique character of our area, state governments must do more to enable local communities to make decisions for themselves.”

She said unlike the Labor and Liberal parties, the Greens did not take donations from corporations or developers.

“I have a vision for a more prosperous and liveable community with equal opportunities for all.

“As your local member, I would make accountability a major focus and be a strong independent voice in Parliament to restore integrity to politics.”

Ms Smedley said she is keen to hear from people
in the electorate about issues that concern them, and will be out in the community over the coming months listening and speaking to voters.

Before becoming a teacher, Ms Smedley had a varied career in the public hospital sector and information technology industry with companies such as IBM and Telstra. She also ran her own small business, providing training packages and services for several years.