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Why
I am standing
I believe the Democrats have courageously and consistently assisted ordinary Australians like me in tackling issues that we face every day… they have strongly supported me personally in providing up-to-date, objective support on the issues of GM crops- a big threat to our agricultural industry if not carefully assessed case by case by independent experts. I have personally witnessed the power wielded by large multi nationals when dealing with the mainstream parties and consequently how easily policy is geared to suit their interests and we are shut out. I have been horrified with the results of the pressure of powerful lobby groups... the Iraq war, Work Choice, the difficulty for working class kids in achieving tertiary education and the Free Trade Agreement.
I was angry at the introduction of the GST- but admire the guts the Democrats have shown- keeping their shoulder to the wheel despite carrying the full anger of the community… they have shown tenacity and courage and have genuinely acted in the best interest of the Australian taxpayer. The loss of a party, which judges each issue on it’s merits… who are so approachable for Jo-blows like me, would be a tragedy for all Australians.
About Me
My husband and I have a gallery in Hallett and I work in Adelaide as a graphic artist- so you could say I am always on the move in Wakefield! My mother’s family lived in Gawler, owning the old gift shop and plumbing business. For many years my husband and I had a successful advertising agency and lived on a biodynamic farm. I was SA spokesperson for The Network of Non GM farmers, who stand against the huge push by large multi-nationals like Bayer and Monsanto to gain control of our food bowl. I have acted in advocacy roles for community groups in the Adelaide Hills on issues such as pollution of waterways and inappropriate urban development and been on School Councils.
We sold our farm four years ago- we could see the writing on the wall with non-sustainable housing expanding throughout Mt Barker and the impact on bore water-levels and salinity.
I have felt first-hand the impact on Aussie kids in our tertiary system with the focus on overseas students and the HECS burden- one daughter is now working as an engineer, my other daughter finishing her Masters in Occupational Therapy.
I have always loved athletics, in the past being a Nat Level 1 coach and both girls competing at a state and national level…racing, I was one of the first women granted an owner/trainer license. I have worked as a mural artist in both hospital and counselling facilities. I recently did the labyrinth installation, working with county kids in creating wonderful butterflies with their wishes for the world.
Key areas of concern:
Climate change- we have long had major party denial and attack on those who were trying to get policy and strategies in place- the parties that have been courageous in their stand on this have the policies and resources- don’t put your vote in the hands of ‘Johnny come lately’s’.
Big companies are big consumers- but they don’t pay their fair share- this puts pressure on small business, Australian families and ordinary Aussie workers. Big offshore interests should pay for their water- like Olympic Dam. Not paying for this valuable resource grossly distorts it’s supposed return to you the tax payer. Yet our farmers have to pay for their water- and I am telling you… yellow cake isn’t on top of my healthy food list!
Unfair taxing structures- why should investors get a tax deduction for mortgage repayments and our kids don’t- a two class system- how many of you out there have been beaten by the investment brigade trying to by your home. Do something for housing- get a fair go for our kids.
The Rupert Murdoch’s of this world, offshore millionaire’s are going to clean up big time in climate change- they can buy our farms, small business’s during drought at rock bottom prices and sell them back when things hopefully will improve- and not- unlike the rest of us, pay capital gains! Please explain! How does this qualify as being in Australia’s interests.
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