If there’s one certainty about first time political candidate Bill Doran – who will stand as an Independent for the seat of Port Stephens at the March 23 state election – it’s his honesty.
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“I’m no-one important or of notoriety, I don’t have any degrees nor campaign medals. I have no money and only a small local social media following,” Mr Doran said on his introduction to the political arena.
“I can’t, like the major parties tend to do, offer any grandiose promises for the community to base their usually disappointed expectations.
“What I can guarantee if elected are two things, my sole loyalty to the community of Port Stephens and that I’ll donate 30 per cent of my after tax salary directly to the community of Port Stephens.
“You can take these guarantees as watertight, unlike certain party candidates that must put party politics and doctrine ahead of the community’s needs and expectations.”
A former Air Force technician and TAFE tool store operator from Canberra, Mr Doran – a 58-year-old former member of Marine Rescue and Rotary club – moved to Tanilba Bay with his partner three years ago. The couple have five children.
He said he is standing as an Independent after becoming disillusioned with the “duopoly of the two major parties system” who he believes has becomes dysfunctional and less relevant in the eyes of the community.
“They can promise the earth but deliver you an atlas.”
Mr Doran was critical of the way governments are constantly downsizing essential services, turning full-time positions into part time or casual, selling community owned assets to the private sector and/or contracting services out.
“They make rules for themselves relating to pensions and super based on the outdated concept that positions outside of government come with greater job security and long-term benefits. But times have changed and I think it’s time we changed as well.
“Think of the benefits to the community at large if every politician do as I would and give back 30 per cent of their salary to those who need it more. Think of where that money could go … primary school air conditioners, more library equipment, free transport for seniors.”
As for Port Stephens based issues, Mr Doran said that he would advocate for a more active role by the state government on the PFAS issue, and more funding to roads, schools and the health system.