Group A: INDEPENDENT “Community minded, business focused”

	Cameron McDonald	Cameron, a Kiama native, is a partner at Culleton Lawyers with a Master’s in Property Law and Business Law Transactions and a Graduate Diploma in Applied Finance. He is President of the Kiama & District Business Chamber, a member of the Destination Kiama Tourism Committee, and a founding member of the Kiama & District Stronger Community group. Cameron also coaches the U11 Girls Kiama Power AFL team. With a strong family tradition of community service, he is dedicated to improving the Kiama LGA, supported by his wife Leah and their children.
	Erica Warren	Erica, a Jamberoo local with 46 years in the Kiama area, has over 35 years of experience in hospitality. She is the General Manager of The Co-Op Gerringong and has won several awards as the former Licensee of Jamberoo Pub. A member of the Kiama & District Business Chamber and Destination Kiama, Erica is passionate about supporting local businesses, tourism, and youth employment. With a Bachelor of Social Science, she advocates for common-sense decisions that balance development and environmental preservation. Erica is running for council to continue making a positive impact on the community.
	Melissa Matters	Melissa, a third-generation Gerringong native, owns and operates The Hill Bar and Kitchen with her husband Dean, employing 60 locals. She has a deep connection to the community, rooted in her family's farming legacy. Melissa is committed to preserving Gerringong's heritage and natural beauty while fostering economic growth. Her businesses sponsor local sports clubs, reflecting her dedication to supporting youth development. Melissa’s leadership, innovative mindset, and commitment to excellence make her a valuable asset to the community as she works to address the challenges and opportunities facing local enterprises.
	Mark Burns	Mark, with over 20 years as an owner and clinician at Gerringong and Kiama Physiotherapy, is dedicated to community wellbeing. He founded The Man Walk Charity, encouraging men to connect through meaningful conversations. Mark also leads the Building Young Men mentoring program, guiding Year 10 boys into adulthood, and serves as a director of the Kiama and District Stronger Community charity. His commitment to health, connection, and community development makes him an ideal candidate for local office.
	Derek McMahon	Derek, a lifelong Kiama resident now in Gerringong, operates two local businesses—McMahons Transport and Lumberjacks Firewood—employing locals and supporting community events. He chairs the Gerringong Bowling Club, is active in Gerringong All Sports, and co-founded Gezza Cares and the Kiama & District Stronger Community group. Awarded the Australia Day Award for his charity work, Derek is passionate about future planning, employment, and financial sustainability for the LGA. He is a decisive leader committed to community improvement.

Group B: INDEPENDENT “A reasonable voice for the community”

	Alan Smith	Alan pursued a law degree to resolve issues with Kiama Council but realized effective communication was key. He advocates for open dialogue and common-sense decision-making in council, emphasizing the impact of decisions on community well-being. Alan is committed to preserving the unique character of local villages while supporting appropriate development. As President of Jamberoo Football Club and owner of Jerrara Creek Farm and Amaki Cafe, he is deeply involved in the community. His corporate experience equips him to navigate complex challenges in the council. Alan holds an MBA, a Bachelor of Laws, and several project management certifications.
	Noel Killmore	“Gaffa” a Kiama local is the owner of Killmore Plant and Services. A business which has provided heavy duty mechanical services since 1992.
	Belinda Camarda	“Bindi” is a strong advocate for conservation and the preservation of our history. Bindi saved “Marks Cottage” from a Council demolition order. Built in circa 1860, the cottage housed the workers who built both Culwalla and Terragong Houses in Jamberoo.
	John Trevenar	“Head” is the driving force behind the renovations at Gerry Emery Reserve in Gerringong. John has secured over $800,000 in grants and donations to upgrade this much loved and utilised community facility.
	Narreda Grimley	Narreda is an extremely experienced senior executive. Having recently retired from corporate life, she volunteers at Aging with Grace, a charity which supports our elderly residents.

Group C: INDEPENDENT “Your Sensible Choice”

	Matthew Brown	Matt has deep roots in Kiama, from being Kiama High School Captain to co-owning Amigos Mexican Restaurant. A former local MP, and corporate lawyer for 12 years, he has volunteered as a surf lifesaver and served on the council since 2016. As the founding Chair of Destination Kiama, Matt bridges private enterprise and government, securing funding for projects like the Kiama Coastal Walk. With expertise in public administration, he is dedicated to keeping the Council “Fit for the Future,” enhancing local facilities, and supporting sustainable housing. Matt holds degrees in Mathematics, Law, and an Executive MBA.
	Danielle Steel	Danielle has a lifelong connection to Kiama, from her childhood and schooling at Kiama High School to her family's longstanding local businesses and her father's 25 years as a councillor, giving her a profound understanding of the community's needs. With extensive experience in the hospitality and tourism industries and a senior business development role in a multinational building materials manufacturer, Danielle offers a unique perspective on local business challenges. Her vision focuses on fiscal responsibility and driving value for residents while ensuring the council operates efficiently.
	Brendan Russell	Brendan was born in Kiama, and his involvement in local sporting clubs and success in the 1995 Australian Championships highlight his active community participation. As a business owner of multiple small enterprises, including restaurants and a legal firm, Brendan is passionate about creating opportunities for young families. His commitment to sensible council decisions aims to provide value for ratepayers and residents.
	Kane Presland	Kane is a distinguished Kiama High School graduate with a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Kane is dedicated to improving mental health in the community. His involvement in the Veteran Surf Project and Waves of Thinking underscores his commitment. As the manager of Penny Whistlers, one of Kiama's busiest cafés/restaurants, Kane understands the housing and employment challenges faced by his generation. He is eager to address these issues on the Council.
	Joan Comber	Joan is a long-standing Kiama Downs resident and former independent optometry practice owner with BOptom and MOptom qualifications She continues to serve the community even in retirement. As a scripture teacher and active member of the Kiama Anglican Church, Joan's dedication is unwavering. Her leadership in the Zonta Club of Wollongong and decades of healthcare service position her to address the needs of local businesses and ageing residents effectively.

Group D: LABOR 

	Imogen Draisma	Imogen has served as Deputy Mayor for four years, emphasising the need for financial sustainability and strong governance in Kiama's future. Raised in Kiama, she attended local schools and earned a double degree in Arts and Law from the University of Wollongong. As a student activist, she focused on student safety and pandemic-related support services. Imogen has worked for members of NSW and Australian parliaments, bringing her legal and political expertise to her role. She is dedicated to ensuring that the council remains financially stable and well-governed.
	Stuart Larkins	Stuart has served as a councillor for four years and is running for re-election to maintain local government independence and democratic control in Kiama. A lifelong resident of Kiama with deep family roots in the South Coast, Stuart identifies as a Wodi Wodi man. He is passionate about representing the community's interests and continuing to help people. Stuart attended Minnamurra Primary School and Kiama High School, and he holds a double degree in Law and Arts, along with a graduate diploma in legal practice. He is committed to tirelessly serving the Kiama community.
	Lucy Abood	Lucy is a mother of two young children, and wants to ensure that we have quality early childhood education, affordable housing options, and a liveable environment for families – which she feels is extremely important. “I will be a strong voice advocating for these issues and more if elected to council."
	Harrison Ledger	Harry is 19 years old, which makes him one of the youngest candidates to ever nominate for Kiama Municipal Council. He is currently studying Law. Politics, Philosophy and Economics at the University of NSW.
	Clare McInerney	Clare has lived in Kiama for the past 35 years. As a retired high school teacher and deputy principal she is a strong advocate for public education.

Group E: GREENS 

	Melinda Lawton	Melinda leads this diverse and committed group. She is an accomplished executive leader and design specialist with a wealth of experience in project management, design and construction sectors. She is a team player, specialising in finding creative solutions to complex problems. Melinda is currently working with Waminda, a dedicated Aboriginal female-led organisation ensuring services and wrap-around support for their Shoalhaven community.
	Jordan Casson-Jones	Jordan, the 2021 Kiama Young Citizen of the year, brings youth to the team as the youngest candidate to be endorsed by the Greens. He is acutely aware of the impact of cost of living and lack of housing options for young people and has been involved in the campaign for more mental health services in Kiama LGA.
	Mark Whalan	Mark has grown up in Kiama. His experiences in local journalism and social media, gives him an astute awareness of the concerns of the local community. With a keen knowledge of local heritage and character, he sees preserving the best of the old with the best of the new is important as Kiama experiences the impacts of growth and change.
	Andrew Sloan	Andrew is well known and respected as a previous councillor and Deputy Mayor. He is a civil engineer specialising in water infrastructure. He has a passion for the expansion of renewable energy into powering local communities as they switch to an electric future.
	Stuart Hall	Stuart, a retired schoolteacher from Werri Beach, is well respected by the many local kids that have been in his care. Stuart has specialised in integrating the natural world with his work and has qualifications in permaculture, horticulture and “Green” education.

Group F: INDEPENDENT “A Fresh Start for Kiama”

	Mike Cains	Mike is a farmer, owner of Pecora Dairy, 2021 Nuffield Scholar & 2024 Royal Agriculture Show Presidents Medal recipient. He is on the board of the Kiama & District Business Chamber and a founding member of the Wednesday Kiama F armers Market. Dad to two adult children and husband to Cressida for over 20 years. Before returning to the area he grew up in, Mike carved out a successful corporate career with senior executive roles at companies like Fairfax Media and CoreLogic. In corporate Australia and in small business he acquired the skills to a) bring people together b) solve problems and c) get things done - if elected he will work with other councillors to create a more productive council.
	Marcus Hewitt	Marcus, a Kiama cattle farmer for over 15 years, has 30+ years of experience running fitness centres in Sydney. A father of three, he understands the challenges faced by families and businesses in Kiama and advocates for better amenities in the region's growing towns. Marcus supports the development of functional accommodation for farm and local business workers. An avid fisherman, he is passionate about preserving the area's natural beauty. As part of the Mike Cains team, Marcus aims to leverage his business experience and local knowledge to support jobs, growth, and investment in Kiama.
	Eric McAuley	Eric is a 20-year Bombo resident. His career encompasses environmental remediation, but he currently runs his own business recycling batteries and other materials. He is an exponent of the circular economy and its benefits to society. Eric is deeply passionate about the future of the Bombo quarry. He believes that we have the perfect opportunity to promote a world class urban design to create a new state of the art community close to beach, electrified train and highway.
	James Cahill	James has lived in Kiama for the past 43 years, raising a family. He has enjoyed career employment in information technology and communications at senior management level working for multi-national corporates. Jim is a keen Christian and surfer, with community volunteering experience including previous lengthy involvement with junior football as coach. Jim is pleased to support Michael Cains to provide a fresh start for Kiama Council.
	Cressida Cains	Cressida has a passion for supporting women in rural and regional Australia. She is the 2020 Agrifutures Rural Women’s Award winner for NSW and ACT and National runner up. She is on the board of Australian Women in Agriculture and is a fierce advocate for helping rural and regional women achieve positions of influence. She is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and holds a Bachelor of Business. Together with Mike she founded Pecora Dairy and has been on the organising committee of the Wednesday Kiama Farmers market. She is mother to two adult children.

Group G: INDEPENDENT “Energy and Experience: Getting CounciI back on track”

	Yasmin Tatrai	Yasmin and her husband Roger live at Kiama Downs. Yas has run a large-scale event production business which has included running large events at venues all over the country including venues like Eastern Creek. Yas has managed a security business and worked in NSW Health for over 10 years with a specific focus in working with people with disabilities and their carers. Yas' business, government and corporate experience provide a diverse background and she will bring these skills to the council chamber.
	Gail Morgan	Gail is a long-term Kiama resident, poet and acclaimed author. Gail has lived and worked all over the world, from Sydney, Alice Springs, London, France and New Guinea. Gail is a lover of music and is passionate about seeing more live music in the Kiama CBD.
	Henry Clyde Streamer	Henry is a life-long Kiama local. He attended local schools and graduated from Wollongong University with a Bachelors of Economics and Finance and holds a Certificate of Executive Management and Development from UNSW Business School.Henry works for the banking and finance industry in Wollongong and previously in a local bank branch in Kiama. He is keen to use his experience and expertise to help fix Kiama Council’s finances. Henry has also previously worked for Surf Life Saving Australia, assisting with the aerial patrol of Surf Beach and Kendalls Beach - keeping our community safe.
	Suzanne Mansfield	Having lived in Kiama for more than 60 years, Sue is a passionate about our local community. A local business owner, mortgage broker and bank manager by trade, Sue has the experience to help get Kiama’s finances back on track. An active member of the Kiama community, Sue has even taught Sunday school at local churches. Married to Allan, Sue has six children including twins who attended Kiama High.
	Daniel Hill	Dan Hill is a long-term Kiama Downs resident and teacher with the Department of Education. Dan has a young family and understands the cost-of-living pressures facing our community.Dan cares deeply about our local environment and is strongly opposed to the offshore wind farm proposal.
	Andrew Prosser	Owner of Gerringong small business Stoic Brewery, Andrew wants to see council run efficiently like any business. Andrew wants to see council cut red tape and encourage more locals to go into business in the Kiama area. Andrew is a passionate believer that people with skills and real-life experience are required as part of the leadership of Kiama Council.

Group H: INDEPENDENT “Back to Basics”

	Mark Croxford	Mark, 62, is a semi-retired corporate and public affairs consultant, mental health advocate for veterans, and incumbent Kiama councillor. A 20-year Navy veteran with service in Bosnia-Herzegovina, he has worked as a senior ministerial adviser in the Howard Government and as a consultant lobbyist. Before his 2021 election, Mark chaired Kiama’s Combined Community Advocacy Group and led the Kiama High School P&C Association. Married to Cath with four children, his leadership is driven by a deep commitment to community service.
	Robert Bartlett	Rob, 31, is a Chartered Accountant who started his career at Ernst & Young before moving to the South Coast in 2021 to run his family’s business. Engaged in promoting tourism and hospitality, he collaborates with local businesses to boost the region's growth. Rob is an active member of the Gerringong Bowling Club and enjoys exploring Kiama's natural beauty with his family, balancing professional dedication with community involvement.
	Darren Ormsby	Darren, 59, is a Kiama small business owner and Country Manager for an international supplier. He brings leadership experience from his time as a Logistics Manager and General Manager for Sydney Rugby Clubs. A former sommelier, Darren supports the Kiama Rugby Club and advocates for the NDIS, driven by his experience as a parent of children on the Spectrum. He is dedicated to building a supportive, inclusive community in Kiama, where he has lived for five years.
	Michael O'Toole	Mick, 60, is a former Superintendent with a 29-year career in the NSW Police Force, primarily serving the Shoalhaven and Illawarra areas. A Business Degree holder, he was the Region Sponsor for Domestic and Family Violence and the last 'lock up keeper' at Gerringong Police Station. Active in the community through the Gerringong Lions Club and Surf Life Saving Club, Mick is dedicated to fostering safety and well-being in the region he has served for decades.