View Jan’s Calendar to see where she will attending next. Look for Jan wearing her signature blue jacket
Name: Janette (Jan) Ward
Age: 49
Suburb: Sunbury - Jackson Creek Ward
Occupation:
I have owned and operated my own business for the past 13 years “Jan's Engraving” prior to that I worked both in the Banking and Dairy Industries and for a short time was also employed by the Reserve Bank of Australia. (41)
Political party or affiliation:
As an Independent female candidate I am not affiliated to any political party or any interest groups. I have been approached by Mr Ogilvie to form an independent bloc and “toe a party line”. However I have no interest in supporting the short term interests of Mr Ogilvie who has advised me this is his last election. I am dedicated to the residents of Jacksons Creek Ward. As a female I provide a different perspective to problem solving and I am prepared to work with all councillors within Hume. (89)
1. Why are you standing for council?
I have lived within Hume City Council since I was a child and over the years been involved in many community organisations. 5 Years ago I felt our Ward needed fresh representation given the amount of new families and changing circumstances occurring within Jacksons Creek Ward, thus began my campaign to represent the local residents. In the past 3 years I have attended most council meetings and now understand what both Sunbury and Bulla need: workable solutions, more investments and wealth adding to our area – these will ensure we continue to provide for our growing and ageing community. (98)
2. During your campaigning, what is the biggest issue people have mentioned to you?
Unfortunately there is not just one but many; however the three biggest issues residents have mentioned to me, both via my survey on my website: www.janward.com.au or when they meet me down town, are the lack of parking within Sunbury town centre, most train travellers do not want the line to be electrified and do not want to travel to Diggers Rest and of course the last big issue is our Day hospital to ensure we get proper medical services (day procedures) and not just more specialist rooms. (88)
3. Have you agreed to any preference deals, and if so, who will you be preferencing and in what order?
I have been offered endorsement from one Association; however, I have declined that offer as I am not interested in just representing the interests of some. As stated above, I am a true independent and will not be controlled by an unrepresentative back room organisation. My voting preferences will be revealed shortly and my choices are those who I believe will look after the future interests of Jacksons Creek residents and not just be here to satisfy their own wants in the next council term. My preferences are for those who show future vision, not dwell on past events. (99)
4. If elected to council, what would be your first priority for Sunbury?
The most pressing issue is parking in and around Sunbury. There have many suggestions and reports generated to resolve the problem. It is now a matter of Council resolve to determine the best option for Sunbury and get it done. This will be done with rigorous debate in the Community however it must be resolved soon. The problem is not going away and will not be any easier to deal with if we continue to delay implementing a solution. The solution must deal with the current issues of long term rail commuter and retailer parking and cater for continued growth. (100)
5. Do you believe the present Hume Council has done a good job?
Like all organisations there is always room for improvement. I believe there is a need for further investment within the Sunbury and Bulla area rather than asking us to leave our towns and head to either Broadmeadows or Craigieburn. I feel Council has forgotten how many people live in this huge Ward and our infrastructure is being stretched too thinly and not keeping up with the growth and needs of our area. I don't agree with the need for all councillors to take overseas trips, not with all the modern technology available. (92)
6. Do you believe Sunbury should form part of Hume Council?
Having lived in Sunbury with both the old Bulla Shire and the Hume City Council, I believe the area predominately covered by Jacksons Creek Ward could form the basis of a stand alone council. Geographically and socially our Ward is separate from and different to the other areas of the council. It is certainly an issue that needs to be continually raised and reviewed. Perhaps a change in State government could lead to this review. In the meantime it is imperative we work within the council we have to achieve the best outcomes for the residents of Jacksons Creek Ward. (100)
7. Is Sunbury growing too fast and how would you manage long term growth?
Given the limited investment in infrastructure in the Sunbury/Bulla area, residents have been feeling the strain of the continued growth in Sunbury and surrounds for a few years. The Green Wedge overlay has placed onerous restrictions on land owners in the area and place at risk the continued viability of these properties. I will ensure that more emphasis is placed on investing for our future needs and further developing the supporting services and businesses that our growing and aging population currently need without having to travel to the other side of the Hume City boundaries. (95)
8. If your house caught fire, what 3 material possessions would you save?
Having recently experienced such a situation; my elderly parent’s home suffered extensive damage from a chimney blaze, whilst they were overseas. It brings home what the real important things are – your family, loved ones and precious memories. Luckily for all concerned no one was injured in the blaze, however it will be the long term affects of this fire which will have the most lasting effect on my family. Like everyone else I would save my family, pets and photos. (80)
9. When did you last catch public transport in Sunbury and what is your verdict?
I was on our local buses in July this year. I am lucky to live off Wilsons Lane and used it to get into Sunbury. The bus was clean and on time. However my return was delayed as I waited an hour for the return bus the return journey seemed to have a long way around route as the trip home took me through Kismet up along Elizabeth Drive into Melba Avenue then to Wilson's Lane. As much as it is always nice to see Sunbury I did think that maybe there was another more direct route? (97)
10. Why should people vote for you?
Over the years we have had a lack of vision for Jacksons Creek Ward. Current and previous councillors have let the residents down by not being able to work as a united front. A vote for me is a vote for getting jobs done in Jacksons Creek Ward. I have outlined a future investment with my Multi Function Convention and Sports Complex proposal. This complex is a golden opportunity for all groups to come to hold their seminars, conferences and other functions in our lovely town. I have what it takes to keep Jacksons Creek Ward moving towards our future. (100)
