Peter Long to seek re-election as strong field of candidates pledges to tackle Karratha issues

Nominations have closed for the 2023 Karratha mayoral and councillor elections with the list of candidates running to be the city’s next mayor being released. Incumbent mayor Peter Long — who has been in the position since 2011 — will be running in this year’s election and said, if re-elected, he would continue to provide Karratha with intelligent, safe and inclusive leadership. “I am a full-time mayor, always able to receive you and your ideas. I love the Pilbara and our community,” he said. Regional Development Australia Pilbara chief executive and former Local Government Minister Tony Simpson will be running for mayor in this year’s election. As mayor, his vision would be to join forces with State and Federal entities to progress childcare, health and housing solutions. “I would work to draw major brand investments in retail and leisure to provide more options for residents. Identify land for a foreshore entertainment hub and infuse Karratha with festivals and quality entertainment,” he said. Brenton Johannsen — who ran for the seat of Durack at the recent Federal election under One Nation — said he would donate the entire mayoral allowance to charity. “I will be a committed full-time mayor, my goal is to visit all businesses and resident groups on a regular basis to touch base and discuss any new issues,” he said. As mayor, his said his aims would be neighbourhood safety, more opportunities for locals, ratepayer discounts for local facilities, relocating airport smokers’ areas as well as ecofriendly weed management. As a sitting councillor, radio announcer, parent and former local business owner mayoral candidate Pablo Miller said that he has gotten to know the people of Karratha and has shared in their concerns, cheered on their victories and embraced their challenges. “As your mayor, I will continue to not only listen but be a strong advocate for our community,” he said. “I believe all the small towns with our municipality are important to our region and I am committed to working with you to further community wellbeing and services.” He said he was interested in expanding opportunities for young people and families, growing local tourism, growing local cultural tourism, supporting local businesses and bolstering mental health services. The owner of the North West Brewing Co Daniel Scott has a vision as mayor to grow Karratha’s economy. His plan is to create an education and sporting precinct between the TAFE and St Luke’s College, with student accommodation for secondary and tertiary students. His plans also include a new home for the Pilbara University centre, and a sporting hub for rugby, soccer, hockey and gymnastics. “This is a vision for building the foundations to grow Karratha into the city of the north. With a new CEO and executive staff and a cultural shift in the administration, it’s time for a new leadership that will complement this team,” he said. Those running for council include Daniel Scott, Kieran Dart, Wayne Mothershaw, Brenton Johannsen, Sarah Roots, George Levissianos, Bradley Davey, Tony Simpson, James Corea, Joseph Almonte and Geoff Harris. Elections will be held for the four vacancies on October 21st.