Featured this week is new councillor Ben Niland.

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Who are you and where do you come from?

I am from Medowie and have lived here for the better part of 25 years.

Was there a particular impetus for your involvement in local government? Has it been a natural extension of your career and other community involvement?

Yes, mostly a natural extension of my previous community work. I have been involved with sporting groups; helped develop the Medowie Social building; have been involved in the council’s audit committee previously; and was the Port Stephens Citizen of the Year in 2019.

What do you believe is the key to an effective Local Council?

An ability to listen to different perspectives, get the key information and to make a decision. Maintenance of assets and living within your means are key measures of being effective
What unique qualities and/or perspective do you bring to Port Stephens Council?

I am a civil engineer who has specialised in roads for over 20 years – I have even built some roads in Afghanistan and PNG. I am also a small business owner, so I understand the importance of making careful judgements about finances

Do you feel there have been any particular demographics of the Port Stephens community that have been under-represented, or issues that have gone unaddressed, to which you would like to draw attention?

With two women on council out of ten, we could improve that. While I deal with people on their character not on their looks, I think there is some merit to the Council reflecting the demographics of the community. In terms of issues – I think our roads are busted. Medowie Road and Lemon Tree Passage Road are quite busy roads now and they ought to be transferred to the state so we can focus on fixing the backlog of damaged local roads.

What feeds your soul, or fuels your passion?

I want younger people to have the same opportunities I had; an opportunity to buy a small house and start to make their own way in life. I want older residents to be able to live safely and securely and to enjoy their retirement. I want families to see Port Stephens as their home forever by bringing in services.

Is there anything you would like the wider community to better understand about their Council?

There are many good staff in the organisation who want to deliver the best they can within their means and to balance development with the natural environment.I would like them to know that I am committed to working with others to deliver the best we possibly can for them.

By Lindsay HALL