Well I must say this is a fascinating journey for us as Paul runs for Mayor and councillor for Warringah. I don't think either of us imagined this was in our starts, but watching Paul become more and more involved in community affairs over the years, it feels like a natural step.
It's been very much a family affair, with the phone ringing constantly and the house full of people! I think I've walked most of the streets of Collaroy, Narrabeen and half of Dee Why letter-boxing with young Beau in the pram enjoying the Spring sunshine.
Our oldest daughters, Larissa and Imogen and their friends, are helping with "how to vote" cards on election day, And, as for young Matilda - she's our cheer squad and there to remind us all about what's really important in life and at the moment, it's Playschool!
I've been giving some thought to what role I would like to play if Paul is elected Mayor and as a business woman I think I can bring something to the table as "Mrs Mayor" (what do we call this person anyway?).
I don't think the wife of the Mayor wants to be checked in the cloak-room with the handbags. I'd like to be an active partner with my husband in Warringah. We both love the place - we've live here almost all our lives and I'd like to take an active role in community life.
I'd like to:
- Champion Warringah's sister city relationship with Brewarrina and the youth exchange program to give it a higher public profile.
- Work with the newly formed Northern Beaches Youth Orchestra to establish a series of outdoor family concerts.
- Promote a Mayoral ball to raise money for children's charities and buy hospital equipment.
- Play an active role in getting households together to exchange their pre-loved items. Inspired by the popularity of swap meets of children's clothing and good and the young women's organisation of "My Sister's Wardrobe".
As the heads of a busy household, I of course, sometimes wonder how we'll manage if we are given these new responsibilities. But I've always been a believer in the old adage: "If you want something done, give it to the busiest person".
We want to show our older daughters that serving the community is a vital part of life - as I say, part of the journey.
Whatever happens on election day, I know we've made some great friends out of the experience and I know we won't stop now.
