Helping people in need is high on the agenda for Dubbo's Paul Hausia.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mr Hausia, a passionate advocate for youth and disability services, is standing in the north ward at the upcoming Dubbo Regional Council elections.
Along with his partner, Mr Hausia is the owner and operator of Bush to the Beach Disability Service and Flexible Respite. He's also the coach of the Dubbo Roos Rugby Club first grade and Colts.
Mr Hausia moved from Tonga to Australia in 1980 and after growing up in Dubbo, and watching his kids grow up here, says the city is the centre of his life.
ALSO MAKING NEWS:
"I'm a joker, I'm an easy-going kind of person, but when push comes to shove, I'll keep pushing and shoving for things worth pushing for because it's all about the community. I've never made anything about me," he said.
The 48-year-old said he saw a councillor as someone who wasn't there to represent themselves, but the whole community.
"I've managed everything from retail to community and disability services but I've never seen myself as a manager. I lead by example and whatever needs to be done, I'll get it done," Mr Hausia said.
"Whatever needs to be said, if others are hesitant or a bit nervous to voice it, than I'm happy to do it. I'm not a person who can sit back and wait for something to happen. If I can see it's going to benefit people in the community I'll put my hand up."
One of the things Mr Hausia plans to push for is more for the region's young people.
"I honestly think the council should be more involved in youth programs, especially around the school holidays. The more that we can keep our youth busy and occupied the better. But it needs to be programs and activities that we're interested in, not what we think they should be doing. The only way to find that out is by actually talking to the youth," he said.
He's also passionate about disability services.
"Council has done some fantastic work but I think we could be doing more. not just in central Dubbo but right across Dubbo to make it more disability-friendly," the council candidate said.
Mr Hausia said he wanted to see parks, clubs and even houses in Dubbo more accessible.
The local government elections will be held on September 4. Ten councillors will be elected, two from each of the five wards.
Are you standing in the Dubbo Regional Council election? Get in touch via orlander.ruming@dailyliberal.com.au.