19 Aug 2024

Nicole Rizk – Roy Maggio Independents, City of Ryde

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What is your name, political party and electorate?

Nicole Rizk – Roy Maggio Independents (not a political party) – City of Ryde – Central Ward.

Tell us about your background both personally and professionally

I am a high school teacher specialising in Business, Commerce and Studies of Religion. I am also part of a wonderful welfare team at the College, personally overseeing over 80 students. I am of Lebanese heritage and have grown up in a very tight-nit family, both immediate and extended. My father had a vision when he first came to Australia to keep everyone close, so our extended family all live in the one street. I have a passion for helping others and lending a listening ear.

What are some things you love about your electorate?

Ryde is very diverse, welcoming and has a strong sense of community. It is also rich in cultural diversity, reflected in the wide range of restaurants and businesses. There are also a variety of local initiatives and events which contribute to its vibrant environment, some of my personal favourites being the Ryde wharf markets and the annual Granny Smith Festival.

What do you believe are the 3 main issues affecting your electorate and why?

  1. Wasting of council resources
  2. Housing affordability
  3. Lack of facilities for youth and elderly.

What are the 3 key things you plan to achieve if elected?

  1. Our commitment to sustainability includes generating 100% of electricity needs for all Council buildings through solar energy within four years. We also aim to eliminate diesel and petrol usage within eight years, positioning Ryde as a leader in local battery storage to stabilise the grid and reduce energy costs.
  2. We aim to enhance community spirit by improving facilities for both youth and seniors. Our goal is to establish community centres that encourage active participation and camaraderie, including spaces for people with disabilities to engage equally.
  3. Recognising pets as family members, we aim to create more sites where companion animals can roam freely while respecting the rights of non-pet owners. We also plan to designate more areas for the safety of native animals.

What about your long term vision for the area?

  1. Giving back the community’s voice through active forums & continuous feedback
  2. Enhance our community recreational/sporting facilities & access to them
  3. Environmental improvements – cleaning up our foreshores, bushlands and pathways

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