Local council is ground zero for community decision-making, and the amalgamated Northern Beaches Council is a serious juggernaut that requires safe hands at the helm. We caught up with re-elected Mayor Sue Heins and newly elected Deputy Mayor Georgia Ryburn.
When did you first realise the importance of being part of the decision-making process for local issues?
Sue: When I was involved in one of the local Chambers of Commerce and saw decisions being made at Council that affected the livelihoods of entire family businesses, and realised the elected body did not have any understanding of how their decision making created unintended consequences. Subsequent meetings with Council made me realise we needed a voice for balanced outcomes.
Georgia: Probably during university, when I was interning for a National News Station and interviewing politicians. I decided then that I’d rather be in the decision-making room than reporting on them.
How did you then first get involved?
Sue: A very persistent Mayor kept asking me to consider running. (He was not the first to ask). I don’t like politics but after getting tired of reading about Councillors’ behaviours and changes in vision, I felt it was time to do something instead of complaining about it.
Georgia: Through the Liberal Party in Manly. From there, I got more involved with grassroots campaigns and understanding the important role local government plays in affecting change for our families and communities.
What makes a great leader?
Sue: Someone who engages in open communication, leads by example, listens well, and lets people feel their feedback is heard. Also, having an open mind to new ideas and innovation, and encouraging people to follow their passions.
Georgia: Empathy. From that everything else flows. I’d also add authenticity, accountability, curiosity, humility (admitting when you get it wrong too!), and of course, integrity.
Who are the role models you look up to, to help you in your day-to-day life, juggling family, career, council management, and working effectively with local community organisations?
Sue: I would say first and foremost is one of my grandmothers – I had 3 grandmothers but that is another story. She moved and lived here in Sydney. Her life had so many challenges in a time when women were not allowed to perform jobs she was qualified for. Her endless ability to find the funny side of those challenges was an inspiration to me. She juggled life as a refugee, became active in local and global organisations, including the Australian Plant Society and was really before her time.
Georgia: My hubby, my folks and my in-laws are the extra pair of (ten) hands that help with the juggle. I couldn’t do it without them. I also look up to them. They value integrity of character over anything I do, or any title I might have.
What are the greatest opportunities and challenges for the Northern Beaches, and for successful management of the amalgamated Northern Beaches Council?
Sue: The greatest opportunity for our Council at the moment is working collaboratively to protect our environment. The reason I say collaboratively is I believe it is up to all of us to watch, keep an eye out and inform if you see something that’s not right. Council works to keep our vision front of mind. A safe, diverse, inclusive and connected community that lives in balance with our extraordinary coastal and bushland environment is paramount. Challenges I see are keeping the community’s expectations real of what can be achieved within a timeline. We have to work within a budget. Managing competing priorities and working to protect what is important is the ongoing challenge.
Georgia: Cost of living is the biggest challenge, both for our residents trying to make it through the week, as well as the increasing costs of the services Council provides. A balanced budget, alongside servicing and future-proofing the needs of our community will always be the sweet spot.
What are the benchmarks you’ll use to assess your success in the role?
Sue: Community feedback is important as well as feedback on how the Council is performing compared to its goals which we monitor annually. We have a vocal community, so I know I’ll be told if there is any disappointment. I get regular feedback now as it is.
Georgia: I think you hear about it pretty quickly. The community aren’t afraid to tell me what they think. If I stop hearing things, both good and bad, that’s probably the biggest tell-tale that I’m not engaged, that I’m not doing my job.
It’s a perfect November day, you have no council or community duties – this is clearly a fictional hypothesis – what will you be doing?
Sue: I’d be at home, in my caring role for my partner and waiting to take him out of the house to visit one of our beautiful locations with a bite to eat and a glass of something nice.
Georgia: Usually at Clontarf playground with the two bubs or having a big family brunch. This November though, I’m a bridesmaid for my sister’s wedding, so bridal duties will be keeping me busy!
Keep up to date with Mayor Sue Heins on socials @inspiringwomen and Deputy Mayor Georgia Ryburn @cr_georgiaryburn and visit northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au for all Northern Beaches Council information