Labor has announced a team of Council veterans and political newcomers on its tickets for the upcoming Local Government Election.
Leading into the September poll, Labor announced its candidates at Weir Reserve last weekend.
Across the three Wards of Penrith. all candidates drove home a similar theme: ‘Working for the West’.
In the East Ward current Penrith Mayor Todd Carney will lead the ticket with Garion Thain, son of long-serving Penrith Councillor John Thain, serving as his second. The ticket will be rounded out with Sabbie Kaur, Brenden Brown and Libby Austin.
Carney said he looks forward to continuing to serve his community.
“I have had the great honour of serving the people of Penrith over the past eight years as an East Ward Councillor and the past 12 months as Mayor,” Carney said.
“A lot has happened, but there is still more to do. As part of the Labor team, I look forward to continuing to deliver greater housing options, jobs, critical infrastructure and community facilities for future generations.
“Delivering the much-needed upgrades and improvements to roads, footpaths, rural drainage and community facilities through a financially sustainable program.”
The South Ward will be represented by newcomer Hollie McLean who sits in the first spot on the ticket with Kirstie Boerst as her second. Lorraine Fordham, Mohinder Singh and Mitchell Hearne will round out the South Ward ticket.
McLean said she was thrilled to represent her local area in the election.
“This term of [Council] will see extensive change to our area with the opening of the new airport in 2026,” McLean said.
“As a South Ward representative, I will work to contribute to decisions that benefit all residents and those who work in and visit our area.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to run for Labor representation for South Ward on Penrith City Council. I am excited to bring my passion, energy and extensive advocacy experience to the Council.
“I am looking forward to spending the next four years working for the west.”
The North Ward top candidate is long-time Penrith City Councillor and former Mayor John Thain who will have current Councillor Robin Cook as his second. On the remainder of the North Ward ticket is Kyra Quinlivan, Brad Hulls and Laine Fox.
Outgoing Penrith City Councillor and current State Member for Penrith Karen McKeown proudly attended the launch event where she said she was proud of the future of the Labor Party in Penrith.
“I have always strongly advocated for the people of Penrith, and I am happy to endorse the Penrith Council Labor ticket,” McKeown said.
“These Labor candidates represent locals from all over our community, I know that their passion and dedication will revitalise our Council for the challenges ahead.
“I have worked with many of the candidates both on Council and in the community and I can attest to their commitment to working for you.”
Deputy Premier of NSW and former Penrith City Councillor Prue Car attended the launch event where she proudly endorsed the candidates.
“The Penrith City Labor team has a proven track record of delivering for local residents, and their unmatched experience and knowledge is what the community deserves,” Car said.
“I strongly support all the candidates, their dedication to fight for [a] brighter future, and unwavering commitment to ‘Working for the West’.”
The Local Government Council Election will be held on Saturday, September 14.
Emily Chate
Emily Chate joined The Western Weekender in 2024, and covers local news - primarily courts and politics. A graduate of the University of Wollongong, Emily has contributed to The Daily Telegraph and worked as a freelance journalist.