Cr Sue Baker JP
North-West Ward
Includes Seaford, Karingal, and also includes parts of Frankston, Frankston Central Activity Area, and Frankston North.
Email: crbaker@frankston.vic.gov.au
Phone: 0438 145 842
What inspired you to run for Council?
I want to support my community and make a difference locally. As an organisation development and training professional, I have experience in strategic planning and governance, business development and implementing ‘greenfield’ projects.
My experience spans corporate and not-for-profit organisations managing people and resources. With this background and a passionate focus on customer service, I saw the opportunity to run for Council as the perfect role to bring my skills, experience and passion for people together in the place I now call home.
What are your top areas of focus for the next four years?
I’m keen to work with the whole of Council to build a high-performance organisation culture that has its focus on a 2040 vision and the interim steps to get there, to serve the entire Frankston community.
I will support inclusive, ethical and purposeful community consultation and ensure communications about decisions are transparent and understood by all.
Thirdly, I will continue conversations on the climate emergency and importance of protecting our environment while developing health and education facilities, new and existing business opportunities, revitalising the CBD, Nepean Highway and extending public transport networks.
Finally, I will work to address issues of homelessness, affordable housing and the mental health and wellbeing of all.
What do you believe are your strongest qualities and how will they assist you in your role as Councillor?
The experience I bring includes planning capabilities, practical knowledge of various industry and community sectors, facilitation of stakeholders to work together on agreed goals, leadership of diverse groups and management of financial and material resources. I am also passionate about putting customers first and enthusiastic about bringing heart and soul to build relationships and listen to all viewpoints.
What do you love most about your local area?
As a cyclist I love to take the cycle paths from Kananook Station up around the Seaford Wetlands and zig-zag through various parks to the Pines Flora and Fauna Reserve, to cycle off road. As a walker I have a circuit taking in Kananook Creek to Seaford, where I’ll get a coffee, sit on the pier and walk back to Frankston on the beach. I also love the fact I can get almost anything and everything I need from one of the local businesses.