Jaidyn Kennedy
Wyndham’s council chamber has received a shake up, with four fresh faces set to join the new council.
Preet Singh soared to victory in Bemin, the ward with the most candidates and the only one without an incumbent running.
Growing up in India, the solar installation business owner came to Australia as an international student and has worked in fields as diverse as food delivery and corporate banking.
Saying that “Truganina has been deprived of many basic facilities,” Cr Singh wants to beautify and enhance the appeal of the suburb through green spaces and better amenities.
“People should be proud to call Truganina their home.”
His Sikh faith and heritage is a big part of his drive to advocate for others.
Asian Business Association of Wyndham founder Larry Zhao overcame incumbents Adele Hegedich and Sahana Ramesh to take Williams Landing.
Arriving in Australia from China in 1999, he settled in Wyndham in 2012 and said the area’s multicultural composition was its defining feature.
Citing safety as one of the most pressing issues, Cr Zhao wants to push for a stronger Neighbourhood Watch presence and improve after-hours lighting.
“I love this place, I think it’s my duty to give back to my community,” he said.
Shannon McGuire’s maiden win came in the Grange, unseating Marcel Mahfoud.
A rehabilitation councillor, Cr McGuire has lived in Wyndham for 17 years and is the son of former Williamstown mayor Graham McGuire.
“I have always been involved in volunteering my time in either a community setting, or as a volunteer board member of my professional association,” he said.
After nearly 40 years in Wyndham, Maria King is now the face of the Iramoo Ward.
Committed to creating a safer and more inclusive area, Cr King wants to ease traffic, improve public transport, and advocate for better community facilities.
In line with a particular focus on fostering a connected and inclusive community, she wants to prioritise investments in parks, green spaces, community gardens, and recreational facilities.
Council meet on Thursday, November 21, to elect the new mayor and deputy mayor.
