State and federal politics secure the lion’s share of the media limelight and public attention, but a strong local council is critical to a strong and vibrant community. I interviewed Candy Bingham, the Northern Beaches’ Deputy Mayor, to find out more about Local Council.
What’s your connection to the Northern Beaches?
I’m a third generation Manly-ite. My grandfather moved here from Katoomba in the early 1900’s. The family ran butcher shops, James Brothers Butchers. My mother was very active in the community, involved with Meals on Wheels and Manly Hospital for over 40years. Community involvement was always a huge part of my family life, and for me personally, I fell in love with the Manly boardwalk and Harbour Pool, and the rite of passage to swim out to the pontoon – something I hope to bring back to Manly soon!
How did you first become interested in politics?
I ran a PR company for 20 years, and I was approached in 1987 by the then opposition leader to lead the campaign to get him elected as Lord Mayor of Sydney. We got him elected as Sydney’s Lord Mayor and we got married too! It was quite the welcome to politics.
And suddenly you were the Lady Mayoress of Sydney!
Exactly, and at that time, 1989-91, Sydney had a very serious problem with street kids. I decided to use my new title to its full power. No one knew me, but I realised I could utilise being “Sydney’s Lady Mayoress” to open doors, getting Ita Buttrose on board and Siimon Reynolds (creator of the Grim Reaper ads) agreed to do the advertising campaign. The campaign’s fundraiser raised a million dollars in one night! That was the first time that had ever been done. Homelessness and child abuse remain huge and ongoing challenges, but I realised in the process of that grassroots campaign just how powerful people are to get together and solve critical issues, as well as what a difference an official title can make to bolster the process.
What makes a good local councillor?
Passion for your community. If that’s not there, you’re wasting your time. A good local councillor listens to the community. A great local councillor tests their ideas and gauges the community reaction as to whether indeed it’s good or bad, adjusting accordingly to ensure maximum community satisfaction. An exceptional local councillor has complete integrity, is very clear about their vision, what they stand for and backs it up always in their actions.
We have elections coming up on 4 December. What do you think goes through a voter’s mind in the booth?
The main thing most voters are thinking is, hey, I better make sure I vote or else I’ll get fined! But secondary to that, a lot of people don’t know who their local representative is. Councillors must be active in their community, building up their credibility through persistent hard work. I’m on several committees across all aspects of community safety to saving the Manly Ferries to running “Primary Ethics” courses in Manly Village Public School which teach the kids critical thinking and ethical decision making. I get great satisfaction from being active in these groups, but I feel that level of dedication is the bare minimum to ensure people see my ongoing commitment to the community and believe I am a great representative for them and their interests.
Do you have a pearl of wisdom that helps keep you focused?
My adage has always been, “I alone can do it, but I cannot do it alone”. At the end of the day, I have to put in the time and the effort, but I can’t achieve great things alone. I’ve got to be part of a team, listen to others, encourage others, be encouraged by them too, then great results will follow.