By Callum Ludwig
Warburton resident Karen Duke is running to become O’Shannassy Ward Councillor of the Yarra Ranges.
Ms Duke is no stranger to the Council election process, having also run in the 2020 elections.
Ms Duke said the ward of O’Shannassy is so unique to the Shire of Yarra Ranges and she believes it is the most beautiful ward to live in.
“I have lived in the Upper Yarra Ranges for many years and raised my sons here, I volunteer at community events and programs that involve connection and communicating with people of all ages and diversity,” she said.
“I currently work in education, but I have experience in community development, engagement, and listening to the needs of locals,”
“If elected I aim to act on these essential needs instead of them being ‘considerations’ when talked about at council meetings.”
In 2020, Ms Duke was one of only two candidates competing for the O’Shannassy position, garnering 3513 first preference votes (34.67 per cent) and losing out to Jim Child.
Ms Duke said she would like to improve what the residents and community needs are, instead of what the tourists want.
“These concerns and issues include spending money on safety around public toilets and essential upgrades to amenities, I will fight for waste management and the return of weekly waste collection,” she said.
“Drainage across the Shire should be addressed along with the concerns of rate rises and there is a need to provide good quality life to our ward including housing, because how can we do this if we can’t house our own community at the moment,”
“We are a Ward that needs more services for the aged and youth, mental health and wellbeing, and a long overdue public transport review.”
Ms Duke has advised she can be contacted by O’Shannassy constituents via Facebook at ‘Karen Duke for O’Shannassy’, email at karendukeoshannassy@outlook.com and through PO Box 109, Warburton, Victoria 3799.
“My values will ensure proper community and local consultation, making council accountable and transparent with decisions that affect residents,” Ms Duke said.
“Our vibrant community is ready to move forward with a positive change and I can be your voice at council.”
