Mitchell Dye Candidates’ Session

Jim Mason - 8 Oct 20

Part 1

First I want to acknowledge Waddawurrung Country, where Country means Land, Water and Culture and I offer my respect to the Traditional custodians - to elders past, present and emerging and to First Nation people at this meeting today.

Three years ago, I said I wanted to foster the Clever and Creative Vision, to make a useful and lasting contribution to the City of Greater Geelong, its people, culture, economy and environment. I have achieved that aim in part.

There is more I want to do.

I’ve worked hard over the last three years; led 3 portfolios, been active on 16 council committees and rarely missed a meeting.

I have a professional skillset built through extensive experience as an International Humanitarian Leader, as an Engineer, Environmental Science teacher and Community Volunteer.

And I have a track record of careful attention to community problems.

A track Record of independence, and progressive thought based on Science, World’s Best Practices, and built on Traditional Labor Values. Environment, Social equity, Local businesses, Agriculture and Community Networks.

And I stood against the push to change the award winning Green Spine project,

I stood against the increase in the number of poker machines and will support reductions where possible.

I stood for a declaration of a climate emergency, restorative environmental management, a circular economy where use and re-use is designed into products, and where plastics and other commodities are eliminated if they cannot be recycled;

I stand for ethical, transparent governance.

I will continue to support a Progressive Council Plan, harmonised with the 30-year Vision

Part 2

I will continue to support the Clever and creative vision, a One Planet City and a city of design

We must manage our deficit. Target support to those most in need COVID 19 disaster. Help people help themselves.

I support and stand for a culturally safe City and the Reconciliation Action Plan

I support and stand for the Settlement Strategy and the intent of DAL (Distinctive Areas and Landscapes) to limit future growth on the Bellarine, to control and define boundaries, to protect the rural landscapes and the character of coastal and rural towns. This also means controlling building heights within these towns while allowing a moderate increase in diversity and density of housing.

I support and stand for Bellarine Arts Culture and Heritage, in Particular, Drysdale Glass arts, The Potato Shed, Bellarine film and literary groups.

Support for Social Housing, Aged and Child care

Improved Social amenities, Transport, Shared Trails,

local productivity, a local livestock and information exchange

Local businesses and local employment

Restoring the Natural Environment

A Culturally Safe City

A revitalized city

I will continue to work hard for the Bellarine and the whole municipality, its people, social infrastructure, amenities and environment.

I will ensure a fair deal for all

And I shall honour my new pledge to:

To Consult Consider and Act,

And to advocate for

A progressive Council Plan, which will continue to Realize our 30-year Vision