19 Aug 2024

Sophie Lara-Watson – Liberal Party, City of Ryde

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What is your name, political party, and electorate?

My name is Sophie Lara-Watson. I’m a member of the Liberal Party, representing the East Ward of the City of Ryde.

Are you running for mayor, and if so, why?

I am not running for mayor; instead, I am supporting Trenton Brown for the position.

Tell us about your background, both personally and professionally.

I’m Councillor Sophie Lara-Watson, a Chartered Accountant with a decade of experience in audit and risk management within the Australian and international financial sectors. I was first elected to the City of Ryde Council in December 2021. Ryde has always been my home, and I’m deeply committed to ensuring our Council can address complex challenges to enhance the community’s wellbeing.

What are some things you love about your electorate?

Ryde is a truly unique place, boasting beautiful green spaces and waterways, a major university, and a thriving employment hub. What energises me most is our community’s caring nature and aspirational spirit.

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

  1. Cost of Living: With 13 rate increases and a 15% rise in rents according to the June 2024 ABS figures, Council must support residents by keeping rates low.
  2. Sportsfields and Green Space Access: The NSROC Report highlights a 16-hectare deficit in sports fields in the City of Ryde, which needs urgent attention.
  3. Local Job Access: Data from the City of Ryde shows that most people working in Ryde also live here. Protecting these jobs, whether in the Macquarie Park Innovation District or local shopping areas, is crucial.

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

  1. Keep rates low, with a goal to freeze increases altogether if possible.
  2. Support the Night-Time Economy Strategy, aiming to increase approved live music and performance venues by at least ten businesses within four years.
  3. Ensure critical infrastructure, such as roads, footpaths, the Ryde Aquatic Centre, and community centres, receive the funding they need to continue serving the community.

What about your long-term vision for the area?

My long-term vision is to maintain the strong community fabric that makes Ryde special, ensuring future generations can grow up with a deep sense of connection and pride in the infrastructure we build to enhance our quality of life.

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