The first new face has emerged in the election race for Dubbo Regional Council with South Dubbo resident Vicki Etheridge announcing her intention to run.
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Ms Etheridge said she wants to help Dubbo grow and prosper, and if elected said she wants to be part of an enthusiastic and proactive council.
A former councillor in Warren, Ms Etheridge has been a vocal opponent of the introduction of an organic waste bin in Dubbo.
She also campaigned against a bridge over the Macquarie River being placed over Tamworth Street.
Ms Etheridge said she felt Dubbo had such potential but was lagging behind other cities like Tamworth, and with a strong council could move ahead quickly.
“It’s about time we got some councillors in there who have a bit of mongrel in them. It’s time to stand up to the senior staff, it’s time councillors made decisions on behalf of the people,” she said.
“It’s the councillors who know what people want because they are out there talking to people and it’s time the hierarchy of staff were made to be a little bit more accountable.”
Ms Etheridge said she wanted to see some new blood on council and in particular, wanted to see other women come on board.
“I’m hoping we might see more ladies put their hands up. I haven’t heard of anyone else but I think we need a balance,” she said.
“It’s time we see some people with vision on council and people who can push this town forward. We’re 10 years behind Tamworth and that’s ridiculous.
“We need people who can sit there and say this is a great idea. Let’s do our due diligence and see if we can have this.
“I would love to see a drag strip here in Dubbo, up to international standard for drag meets. It could be great.”
Ms Etheridge said she still didn’t want a third bin in Dubbo, but admitted it may happen. However she said if that is the case, weekly garbage collection should be maintained.
She said it was also important that Wellington wasn’t overlooked.
“While not being a fan of the amalgamation, we have it now and Wellington has become a sister suburb and we’re going to have to spend a lot of money on them,” Ms Etheridge said. “If they are part of Dubbo they deserve the same services and the same attention as Dubbo.”
