By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
The Yarra Ranges council elections are gearing up for a significant change, with a marked increase in candidates this year – with the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) recently announced that 2231 individuals have nominated for 646 council vacancies across 466 elections, up from 2186 candidates in the 2020 elections.
In the Yarra Ranges, each of the nine wards has one position to fill, but two wards, Chirnside and Ryrie – will remain uncontested, with Richard Higgins and Fiona McAllister continuing in their roles without a vote.
Streeton ward along with Chandler and Lyster, will have new councillors, as David Eastham, Johanna Skelton, and Andrew Fullagar did not seek re-election.
Sigrid Petersen is one of two candidates contending for the Streeton Ward in this election – her vision is to collaborate with the local council, residents, and community groups to amplify a united voice and raise awareness of important local issues.
“Cost of living is a major concern for everyone right now, many people are facing similar challenges with rising interest rates, food prices, and energy costs,” Ms Petersen said.
“As both a business owner and a resident, I’ve noticed that our rates seem relatively high compared to other councils, and I’d like to address this if I’m elected.”
“I also want to highlight the wonderful work being done by local initiatives like Montrose Community Cupboard – they provide free food and host monthly community meals that do more than just offer a meal; they help bring the community together – this is particularly important for combating isolation among the elderly and I’m committed to promoting these efforts to strengthen our community ties even further.”
Ms Petersen’s mother has multiple sclerosis, which meant her father took on the responsibility of raising her and her sister as their primary caregiver.
“Growing up, we lived on a disability pension, which shaped my perspective on many issues,” she said.
“Recently I’ve been diagnosed with ADHD, I believe my experiences have given me a broad viewpoint, and I’ve been open about my journey on my business’s social media accounts, and just by sharing my experiences I’ve helped more than 40 people seek diagnoses for themselves or their children.”
Ms Petersen is not only a mother but also a business owner and a photographer for over a decade, she believes her experiences in life has provided her with a broader perspectives.
She previously lived in Lilydale for nine years and has now been in Montrose for two years with her partner, Chris Barclay, and their two sons, Charlie, who is eight, and George, who is five.
“My work has taken me through the beautiful areas of the Yarra Valley, capturing moments at weddings and watching families grow, I’ve been a full-time photographer since my first child was born and recently, we purchased part of the Montrose Florist, which has added some stress due to ongoing roadworks and the lack of support we’ve received,” the 36-year-old said.
“This experience pushed me to consider running for council, something I hadn’t really thought about before.”
Ms Petersen has been involved with the Montrose township group but has stepped back for a break due to the pressures of politics and business.
However, she said she remains deeply committed to her community and continues to attend local events, such as the dinner hosted by Pat and Simone at Montrose Community Cupboard, where she also took photos.
“My business partner, Chloe, and I are likely going to sell our florist, this decision has motivated me to run for council, as it will give me more flexibility now that I’m stepping away from a struggling business, it will mean I remain committed to supporting our community and the many businesses facing challenges, especially with the rising cost of living and the extended roadworks that will affect us all,” she said.
“Our area has beautiful reserves, and I see local kids building their own jumps and tracks – I would love to see something properly designed and funded for them.”
She said while she appreciates of funding for sporting clubs, including lights and change rooms, as her kids are involved in basketball and footy too, however, she also recognises that many kids prefer biking, skateboarding, or scootering in the outdoors.
“It would be fantastic to have a central location, like a skate park, that serves not only as a recreational space but also as a community hub for events like markets and concerts,” Ms Petersen said.
“Montrose really needs more options for kids, especially since funding often goes to other suburbs, leaving us a bit overlooked.”
“I’m committed to representing not just Montrose but also the other suburbs in my ward, and I’d love to hear from locals about what they feel their communities are missing.”
