Shelley Hancock, the former Berejiklian Government Minister for Local Government and the first female Speaker of the Legislative Assembly, has come out in support of Yasmin Tatrai and encouraged Kiama voters to back her team that has ‘energy and experience’.

“I have always encouraged strong women to stand for local government. Yasmin has had careers across business and government; her energy and experience is the combination that makes for outstanding local councillors.

“Half of Yas’s ticket comprises strong and dedicated local women. Gail Morgan and Sue Mansfield are also both long-term Kiama locals, who are passionate about having effective local representation and getting Kiama Council back on track.”

“As a former Shoalhaven City Councillor and Minister for Local Government, I’ve seen plenty of candidates that simply don’t have the skills or a plan. Yasmin’s plan to keep rates low, fix Kiama Council’s finances and support balanced and sustainable development will resonate across the Kiama Municipality.”

“Kiama Council does have serious problems. We need solid, stable and capable leaders who will work hard to turn these problems around. I wish Yasmin and her team all the very best for the campaign and successful election result,” Hancock said.

Tatrai is delighted to have Shelley’s support, “I’m a huge fan of Shelley’s. She’s an inspiration. She shattered the glass ceiling and is an example of what women leaders can achieve in government at so many levels.”

“I want to follow her example and represent my community on council. I’m not running to kick the big decisions down the road, I want to take on the challenges like fixing the budget, keeping rates low and supporting balanced and sustainable development.”

“Shelley’s support is a huge shot in the arm and a massive encouragement to me personally. But the support that counts the most will be what people think on election day and I’m ready to take up the next challenge,” Tatrai said.