Glenn Dewhurst is so concerned with the current state of politics, he’s decided to throw his hat in the ring and run as an independent candidate for the state seat of Southern River.
The local businessman, City of Gosnells councillor and former police officer said not enough is being done to address local issues including crime, health, support for small and businesses, manufacturing, cost of living pressures and what the future holds for a younger generation.
“By focusing on these priorities, I aim to foster a safer, more equitable, and prosperous Western Australia for all residents,” Mr Dewhurst said.
“These major reforms represent the cornerstone of my commitment to our community. “However, I recognise that there are numerous other pressing issues affecting Western Australians. I pledge to tirelessly advocate for solutions to these challenges, ensuring that every resident’s voice is heard and addressed,” he said.
On the ground in Southern River, if elected Mr Dewhurst is keen on helping to deliver the Sutherlands Park Leisure, Aquatic, and Sports Hub, Huntingdale Dog Park, Lexington Park Playground upgrade, Cardington Park Upgrade, Garden Street Extension, public transport enhancements as well as youth engagement and recreational programs.
Mr Dewhurst has been a Gosnells Councillor for 14 years, two of them as former Mayor.
“I have the experience, understanding of local issues, and vision to succeed, and I’m ready to to work hard to achieve positive outcomes for the electorate,” he said.
“Labor has forgotten the people, and are taking safe seats for granted. I’ve been a disruptor my whole life in all my endeavours and I’m keen on shaking up the State Government arena.”
The state seat of Southern River is currently held by Labor’s Terry Healy who won 76 per cent of the votes at the last state election with a swing of more than 26 per cent.
Mr Healy, a former City of Gosnells councillor, would not be drawn on Mr Dewhurst’s candidacy, but said his priorities were focussed on the completion of the Thornlie-Cockburn Train Link and Youth Plaza, while also delivering cost of living relief for local residents as part of Roger Cook’s WA Labor team.
“I’m really proud to have delivered on what I’ve promised for our community over the last eight years, including upgrades at Southern River college, as well as getting the Thornlie-Cockburn Link and Youth Plaza moving,” Mr Healy said.
“Many will know I have been advocating to the City of Gosnells to build the Sutherlands Park Indoor Pool for years and I’m pleased that, under a re-elected WA Labor Government, I will contribute $2 million to progress this project as the first stage of SPLASH.
“Working with the City of Gosnells to deliver the indoor pool will be critical and a key focus for me as local member, if I’m re-elected.
“The people make Gosnells and Southern River great – it’s why I live in Gosnells and am raising my family here, and I’ll continue advocating passionately for what matters to our community such as easing cost of living, strengthening our health system and boosting housing supply.”
