VOTERS are being urged not to allow Wollongong to be dominated by Labor and Greens’ candidates, advocating for offshore wind turbines, at this month’s local government election.

Independent candidates Suzanne de Vive and Ryan Morris, who oppose offshore wind projects, are calling on residents to support their campaign for an independent lord mayor in the 14 September poll.

Ms De Vive and Mr Morris argue offshore wind turbines would bring excessive costs and regress to Wollongong.

An independent lord mayoral debate will be held this Wednesday at Bulli Workers Club from 7pm, giving the community an opportunity to hear directly from the independent candidates who oppose the wind turbines.

“This debate will offer residents a chance to engage with us, ask questions, and learn about our plans to prioritise Wollongong’s needs,” Ms de Vive said.

“Labor and the Greens are pushing for floating offshore wind, the most expensive energy option, amid a cost-of-living crisis and rising energy bills,” Ms de Vive said.

“Local businesses in tourism and fishing have voiced concerns to us about the potential negative impact and we are here to represent their concerns.

“When 65 per cent of the community says no, we need candidates who listen, not those who ignore the majority because someone in Canberra tells us to.”

Beyond energy concerns, Ms de Vive and Mr Morris are focusing on revitalising public spaces, enhancing infrastructure, and supporting local businesses. They believe Wollongong needs leadership that prioritises these local issues over broader political agendas.

“With just six independents running against 24 candidates from Labor and the Greens, we cannot allow our city to be overshadowed by these two major parties that often collaborate on policy,” Ms de Vive said.

Ms de Vive said a NSW Liberal Party’s administrative error has deprived the community of a full spectrum of choices, highlighting the need for an Independent Lord Mayor focused solely on Wollongong’s needs without party interference.

Ryan Morris said he is committed to preserving the tradition of independent leadership to ensure that Wollongong remains at the heart of every decision.

“Historically, independent mayors have provided the accountability and transparency needed to shield our city from external pressures,” he said.

Mr Morris said his message is straightforward: Wollongong First.

“Our city has been neglected by major parties whose priorities often align with Canberra or capital cities rather than our regional needs,” he said.

“Wollongong deserves leadership that advocates for our region, preserves our heritage, and ensures progress that benefits our residents, not distant political elites.”

• What: Wollongong Lord Mayoral Debate
• When: Wednesday, 4 September, 7pm
• Where: Bulli Workers Club, 313 Princes Hwy, Bulli

Free subscription to The Bulli & Clifton Times

OR DONATE BY CREDIT CARD

Don’t have PayPal? Instead, you can support The Bulli & Clifton Times by leaving a secure $2 debit or credit card donation. Your generous patronage of my work and research, however small it appears to you, will greatly help with my continuing publication costs.