St Albans local Perran Costi will stand on the Keep Sydney Open ticket at this weekend's state election, with a focus on "protecting the environment and heritage, and supporting our local business".
Mr Costi has a lifelong connection to the Hawkesbury area and has created a community-focused eco, arts and culture farm at St Albans.
With more than two decades' experience encompassing permaculture, art, design, events, education, sustainability, culture and community, Mr Costi describes himself as "a passionate, proactive advocate and participant in community, arts, music and culture in this NSW".
His Facebook pages states he is for "vibrant culture, [a] sustainable future, strong economy [and] empowered communities.
"I will be an inclusive voice for the people of the Hawkesbury, having a good understanding of the area's history, complexity, needs and aspirations. I believe I am best placed to represent its diverse communities," he stated on the page.
"I believe in open government, transparency and listening to and working with, the electorate to formulate and implement initiatives for the benefit of our community
"I can no longer stand by and see the current regressive government destroy the heart and soul of the Hawkesbury whilst providing no vision for its future. I want to Keep Hawkesbury Open and make it a vibrant, safe and healthy community. I want to focus on protecting the environment and heritage, and supporting our local business."
Mr Costi is descended from both the local Darug Nation, and from the the first convicts in the Hawkesbury. His family "has helped to build the Hawkesbury into what it is today, as working class farmers, fishermen and builders", and Mr Costi said he was "keen to follow this legacy to truly represent the locals and turn the area back into a thriving united and sustainable location.
"At a time when rural and regional areas are struggling to stay afloat and losing people to the cities we need to create employment opportunities for local community, businesses and organisations now more than ever. It's time for Hawkesbury to thrive."
