Ahead of this September's Council election, the Kiama Labor branch has announced it will be running an endorsed ticket for the first time in more than twenty years.

"When we put it to the members, they were pretty much overwhelmingly in favour of having an endorsed ticket," says Kiama Labor Branch President Jamie Cole.

"Members felt it would be the best way of having our voices and Labor values put to Council."

The ticket is a mix of youth and experience, with the top two spots going to young party members: Imogen Draisma, an arts/law student from Minnamurra; and Stuart Larkins, a lawyer from Kiama Downs. They will be followed on the ticket by Michael Bowden, a trainer and community builder from Kiama; Robyn Sharp, an artist from Foxground; and Chris Cassidy, a former Mayor of Auburn who now lives in Gerroa.

“We want a council comprising people who share the concerns of the majority of residents about sustainable development, protecting our unique environment, and improving access to key services that can safeguard the health and wellbeing of residents – this is a fantastic team of people who are already out there genuinely listening to community concerns and who are keen to do something about them,” says Mr Cole.

“The Country Labor team will ensure Kiama Council is more representative of our community. Our candidates include young people, experienced councillors, long-time community activists, those with school-aged kids, those in work, and retirees.”

The Kiama Labor branch has undergone a revitalisation in recent years, and with almost 80 members is now one of the biggest branches in NSW, if not the country.

"We have a very active, diverse and passionate branch," says Mr Cole.

"A lot of other branches have endorsed tickets, and there was a big push by State Labour for us to do this.

"The thing about having an endorsed party ticket is it is transparent.

"Straight up, people will know our values and what we stand for."

Councillors Matt Brown and Don Watson are members of the branch, but want to run again on an unendorsed ticket.

"I have never have been a big fan of party politics in local government," says Cllr Brown.

"That is not to say that others can't have a different view.

"We will be running a separate ticket, but will be supporting the endorsed ticket as well. It is good to see some young people looking to get active and involved in the local community.

"We are just focusing on the job as councillors at the moment."

The process is underway to get final approval from the party for their unendorsed ticket.

"The branch is happy to support an unendorsed ticket," says Mr Cole.

"We support anyone who is passionate and wants to run."

Kiama Labor's campaign is being launched on Saturday 17 April, with a barbecue lunch at James Oates Reserve, Minnamurra from 12.30pm. Tickets are $40 per person or $20 concession. All members of the community are welcome. Tickets from here.