Mr Bob Puffett AM, from Woy Woy Bay, has announced his decision to stand as an Independent for the Gosford West Ward in the September 9 Central Coast Council election.
Mr Puffett said he was a long-standing resident of the Central Coast with family also living on the Central Coast.
He was the President of the Bays Community Group Inc. for some 16 years, and during that time worked tirelessly on improvements for residents and the precinct.
“I absolutely enjoyed my time as President of The Bays Community Group and believe that I made a difference for our area,” Mr Puffett said.
“I have had extensive experience working with Governments and the private sector and believe that this knowledge and experience equips me well for a role as Councillor,” he said.
Mr Puffett was made a Life member of Worldskills Australia after having been its National Chairman and International delegate promoting skills excellence for young Australians.
He was the Assistant Director General TAFE after a successful career as Principal and Director of Sydney Technical College.
“My career in TAFE, starting from teacher of Plumbing to Principal and Director, was such a rewarding part of my life.
“I met so many people of all ages, helping them to gain skills and knowledge to be proud of,” he said.
Mr Puffett said he believed this experience and his current role as a Board Member of HVTC Training Company, that employs 600 young people in their Group Apprenticeship scheme, gave him an insight into the needs of the Central Coast community’s future.
Mr Puffett was made a Member of the Order of Australia for his contribution to Technical Education and as Director of the Sydney Institute of Technology, and continues his work assisting various organisations promoting post-secondary education.
He is concerned about issues impacting the people of the Central Coast, in particular those in Gosford West Ward, and wants to ensure that the Wards have a collective contribution of betterment to the region.
He said he will advocate for safer, pothole free roads, that are pedestrian and vehicle friendly, as many roads are shared by walkers and drivers.
He said he was alarmed at the increase in youth unemployment and would advocate for strategies that address youth unemployment and welfare.
He said that he would bring experience and common sense to the position of Councillor and work towards a more efficient and responsive Council serving the residents of Gosford West ward.
Source:
Media release, Jun 13
Bob Puffett, Woy Woy Bay