Mike Cains, board member of Kiama & Districts Business Chamber, is running for the Kiama Council, bringing with him extensive experience and a deep connection to the region. 

Mike has lived in the Kiama Local Government Area since 2008. He's a local businessman, farmer, and passionate community advocate. From corporate executive roles to founding the successful Pecora Dairy with his wife, Cressida, Mike is dedicated to sustainable business practices and community engagement. His vision for Kiama is shaped by strategic thinking, financial literacy and a profound love for the area.

Can you share a bit about your history and connection with the Kiama LGA?

I have lived on a farm in Knights Hill since 2008. I have been married for over 20 years to Cressida and we have two grown children. Together we started the Pecora Dairy in 2011. 

I am also a 2021 Australian Nuffield Scholar, which aims to increase farmers’ technical and management skills. It gave me a global perspective on how to effectively advocate for the region's agriculture and bring ideas and solutions to local farming challenges.

Kiama is the best place to raise a family and start or grow a business. Born and raised in Southern Illawarra, I returned to the region with my young family after a corporate career in Sydney. I've been involved in outstanding community groups, including being one of the founding stallholders of the Wednesday Kiama Farmers Market. I'm also proud to serve on the board of the Kiama Business Chamber and support the Kiama Show.

Could you tell us about your professional background and current occupation?

Currently, I'm known for my work as a businessman, farmer, and cheesemaker. Before returning to Kiama, I held executive roles at Fairfax Media, Herron Todd White Valuers, and CoreLogic Australia. Our family business, Pecora Dairy, is a national brand known for sustainability and has won the prestigious Royal Agricultural Society Presidents Medal.

What inspired you to run for Kiama Council?  

I'm proud of what Kiama has achieved, but there's still much to do. I bring strong financial management skills, strategic thinking, networks and corporate sensibility to the table. My expertise in agriculture, housing, and renewable energy can help address key issues. With a mature business and great staff, I have the time and energy to give back to the community that has supported my family and business from the start.

What are your ‘qualifications’ to sit as a councillor? 

My corporate career and running a successful startup have given me vital skills. I've learned to bring people together, solve problems, and get things done. People want professionalism and corporate sensibility to ensure the Council serves all citizens effectively. 

What is your political persuasion, philosophy and ideology? What motivated your decision to run as an independent candidate?

I'm practical, sensible, and centred. I'm passionate about finding solutions to climate change and promoting efficient local government. Council should deliver effective, friendly services without strident politics. Running as an independent shows my commitment to sensible and practical decisions based on community needs, not party interests.

What key issues do you intend to address if elected, and what are your primary goals for the community?

The top priority is maintaining a sound balance sheet and pursuing a sustainable operating surplus to avoid administration and rate hikes.

We need a sensible housing strategy that addresses community needs while preserving our streetscape, green space, and agriculture. Ensuring smaller villages retain their character and become more viable is crucial. We must also fast-track the harbour revitalisation program and integrate it with the foreshore and showground.

Additionally, we need a strong, diverse local economy providing high-quality jobs. Engaging with the community and ensuring effective services for everyone is essential. A stronger focus on arts and culture, including visual arts and live music – can be the bedrock of our identity and something I feel passionate about.

How do you plan to engage with the community to ensure residents’ voices are heard?

There's no substitute for talking to people from all walks of life. For example, I've spoken to parents in Jamberoo whose pre-school has been flooded twice recently. They have 100 children on the waiting list and need a plan for the future. Listening to these concerns ensures Council provides effective services for the whole community, not just the most vocal.

What previous experience do you have in public service or community involvement? How will you prioritise and balance the diverse needs and interests of various groups within the LGA?

I'm proud to serve on the Kiama Business Chamber board, which has grown to over 200 members and plays a significant role in advocacy, education, and boosting economic activity. As a founding member of the Wednesday Kiama Farmers Market, I've seen it become a community institution. I believe in collaborating with community groups and am keen to find new ways to ensure their voices are heard after the precinct groups were dissolved.

What is your stance on managing growth and development in an environmentally sustainable way?

We need to build dwellings that meet our community's needs. Currently, 76% of our homes are stand-alone houses, but only 49% are occupied by no more than two people. We must address the demand for smaller dwelling types. Promoting waste reduction, renewable energy, and a circular economy is vital. I propose an opt-in council-wide Virtual Energy Network for effective energy trading among residents.

How do you approach to fiscal responsibility, budget and funding for key local initiatives and community projects?

I believe in kick-starting community projects and actively pursuing grant monies. Council should create an “Advocacy Plan” such as the one Shellharbour council has. Essentially a wish list of projects, prioritised and advanced to 'shovel-ready' status to give them the best chance to succeed in competitive grant processes. I am looking forward to working with the CEO, her council team and fellow councillors to bring critical projects to fruition. 

What partnerships or collaborations would you pursue to benefit the community? How do you intend to support local businesses and the local economy? 

Building the Kiama brand should drive economic activity beyond tourism, promoting the production and manufacturing of goods and services. We need to strengthen off-season tourism and develop regional attractions, such as bushwalking and coastal trails. Revitalising the night-time economy is also important for Kiama's growth.

How will you address the need for improved local infrastructure and public services for residents? 

Firstly, Council needs to review its functions and services to determine and focus on what is needed. When organisations have a clarity of purpose and eliminate waste and inefficiency – extraordinary things happen. This is the only way to direct and allocate resources to the areas where our community will derive the most benefit.

Mike Cains presents as a candidate who understands the importance of both preserving Kiama's unique character and driving forward-looking development. His approach to Council appears rooted in collaboration, practicality, and a genuine desire to serve the community. By focusing on sustainable growth, enhancing local infrastructure, and fostering a thriving local economy, Mike aims to ensure that Kiama remains a vibrant, resilient, and inclusive place for all its residents. His candidacy offers a promise of dedicated service, practical solutions, and a deep commitment to the well-being of the Kiama community.