Mayoral contest heats up with new candidates throwing hats in ring

The candidate count for Bunbury’s mayoral election in October is on the way up with Murray Cook putting his name in the mix for the council’s top job.

Five Bunbury city councillors, Mayor David Smith and vet Alan McGregor have put their name forward for the position.

Councillors Cook, Sam Morris, Michelle Steck and Brendan Kelly have all announced their candidacy in the past week while Cr Ross Slater made his intentions clear last year.

Cr Cook said he wanted the council to operate under a transparent model and be proactive, rather than reactive to issues.

“I would like to see us build on that to ensure that Bunbury continues to be a viable and vibrant port,” he said.

Cr Morris said he was campaigning on the issue of leadership and a more cooperative approach between council, City of Bunbury staff, State Government and Federal Government.

Cr Kelly is running on the wave of change be believes is on the horizon for WA’s local governments.

“I think Bunbury people can sense the opportunities in changing times and the need for new energy and a fresh approach to promoting the city,” he said.

Cr Slater said as mayor he would promote Bunbury as the City of Six Waters — ocean, harbour, inlet, bay, estuary and river.

‘‘I am experienced, having served three terms on council, I am apolitical, multi-tasked and have the support of the moral majority,’’ he said.