Edna Wacher will lead a three-person team standing for the Budgewoi ward in the September 14 Central Coast Council election under the banner Central Coast Heart.
“Harmony in diversity is a cry of my heart,” the well-known community activist said.
Migrating to Australia in 1988 from the Philippines, Wacher is involved in helping culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) people better integrate into Australian society.
“This was my first job,” she said.
“I was the case worker for the then Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs for over a decade; thereafter, I worked for the Central Coast Local Health District as Multicultural Health Development Officer.”
Wacher holds tertiary qualifications in two health related disciplines (BA Psychology and Diploma in Community Services – Welfare), a Graduate Certificate of Immigration Law and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment in Education (TAE).
She volunteered actively for people to access Australian health care, has served on the Central Coast Cancer Advocacy Network and has chaired various committees such as the Central Coast Domestic Violence Committee and the then Wyong Shire Council Multicultural Advisory Committee.
In 2014, Wyong Council named her Citizen of the Year for her community services.
She is also a Justice of the Peace.
“Community is my passion,” she said.
“I have lived here for 36 years and brought up my four children; they are now successful in their own careers.
“Standing for Council election is my way to repay the community for the happy life my family have enjoyed on the Central Coast, and to help ensure that newly arriving families share the same good fortune.”
Her team-mates are Diana Lazatin and Anabelle Alcanar, both working mothers employed by the Central Coast Area Health Service.
“We understand that the most important council issues are those that concern its constituents – from water usage to waste reduction, road and parkland maintenance, better playgrounds, safety footpaths, children and aged care support and strategic planning for newly arriving families,” Wacher said.
“With the rising costs of living, if elected, I will advocate for free sports for children and minimise rate rises.
“NSW is one of the most diverse and inclusive societies in the world.
“However, communities that speak a language other than English at home are under-represented, as are female delegates.
“Obviously, a more diverse representation will help ensure the needs of different groups in the local community are taken into account.”
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