By Rod Thomson
Rosmairi Dawson targets return to Lake Macquarie City Council
Former Independent councillor Rosmairi Dawson is eyeing off a return to Lake Macquarie City Council.
The well-known resident has put up her hand to run as a mayoral candidate, as well as the West Ward representative, at the upcoming NSW Local Government Elections.
It follows sitting mayor Kay Fraser’s decision to retire in September.
Ms Dawson is standing as a grouped candidate.
She previously served the community as a councillor from 2012 until 2016, under Greg Piper’s Independent Lake Alliance.
And, she’s keen to stand up for her constituents again.
“I will work with fellow councillors to deliver as many projects as I can during this term,” Ms Dawson said.
“It’s important to enhance our city’s economic development, accessibility, environmental sustainability, recreation, tourism and local community ventures and events.
“By working with my fellow councillors in conciliation and through discussion, I aim to bring forward and deliver vital infrastructure and planning for Lake Macquarie.
“But, particularly concentrating on the infrastructure and planning needs of the community as a whole.”
Ms Dawson’s experience serving Lake Macquarie extends beyond her time on council, having taken on numerous roles in the community and advocacy for the residents of West Ward for more than 20 years.
A well-respected local, she was instrumental in establishing the Morisset PCYC facility, going on to hold the position of club manager for almost a decade.
As well, she’s maintained executive positions on organisations including:
- Founding president of the Southlake Business Chamber and Community Alliance
- 10 years as a member of the Lake Macquarie Tourism Board
- 10 years as a member of the Morisset Showground Trust and Community Operating Committee
Currently, Ms Dawson is secretary of the Hunter Writers Centre, on the Mandalong Mine Community Consultative Committee and director of Lake Macquarie Business.
She holds an Executive Certificate in Local Government through TAFE and a Certificate of Elected Members Skill Set through UTS and Local Government NSW.
Additionally, she’s organised and coordinated key community events over 20 years such as:
- The annual Morisset Southlake Christmas Spectacular 2006-2016
- Lake Macquarie Classic Boatfest 2010-2011
- The Street Beat Street Fair under the Town Centre Program for Morisset
Ms Dawson coordinated and ran the Morisset Showground Markets (both on a volunteer basis and, in later years, as a sole trader), for more than 11 years.
Key city-wide initiatives on her agenda includes supporting the city in the growth of programs and facilities in relation to arts and culture, recreation, sustainability and economic development.
In addition, projects for West Ward that she intends to push forward comprise:
- Supporting the delivery of the Morisset Town Centre Hub
- Establishing planning for an indoor sporting facility for youth and community at Toronto
- A safe drop-off zone for Bonnells Bay Public School
- Investigating shared pathway projects and the city-wide footpath strategy
Ms Dawson’s campaign highlights her intent to implement a vibrant and sustainable future for Lake Macquarie residents as well as building trust and support through her love and passion of the community as a local resident who is independent of any pollical affiliations.
