Alex Greenwich MP, Judy Hannan MP, and John Hatton AO joined Kate Dezarnaulds in Kiama to highlight the power of independence in politics.
In recent weeks, Kiama has seen a parade of high-profile visitors—five from the Premier and nearly as many from the Shadow Premier. Yet behind the photo ops and promises, many voters have been left wondering: what’s real, what’s spin, and where does Kiama’s community voice fit in?
Last night, three of NSW’s most respected Independent figures—Alex Greenwich MP, Judy Hannan MP, and John Hatton AO—stood alongside Kate Dezarnaulds (Kate4Kiama) and campaign volunteers at Burnetts on Barney and later at the Kiama Pub to cut through the confusion. Together, they showed what independence in politics really means and why Kiama has a rare chance to seize the benefits of a strong Independent crossbench in NSW Parliament.
A Legacy of Independence
John Hatton AO, former South Coast MP and founder of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), lent his weight to the event, reminding the audience of the South Coast’s proud history of electing Independents who stand up for integrity.
“Kate Dezarnaulds is the only candidate in this race with the independence, integrity, and courage to speak up for her community—without fear or favour,” Hatton said. “She’s not here to climb a party ladder. She’s standing to serve the people of Kiama with honesty, transparency and a genuine commitment to public service.”
Issues That Matter
At both the media call and the community forum, the Independents unpacked some of the biggest issues confusing voters, from the impacts of optional preferential voting and preference deals on Independent candidates, to pork-barrelling, election funding rules, and why the power of the Cross bench is never greater than in a minority parliament.
Alex Greenwich MP said:
“The main gripe the major parties have with Independents is we work too hard, and deliver too much for our communities. NSW Parliament has a proud history of Independents rising above party politics to do what’s right for their communities and the state of NSW.”
Judy Hannan MP added:
“You just have to look when voting takes place in parliament. The two parties have staffers stand and direct them into either the yes or the no. They don’t even have to know what they are voting on. The Independents work out what is best for their own electorate and vote accordingly.”
The evening was hosted by citizen journalist Lynne Strong, who facilitated a community-led conversation on how Independents deliver results across NSW—and why Kiama now has the opportunity to keep the bastards honest.
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LINK to Lynne Strong’s Local Civics Blog: https://cloverhilldiaries.com/
About Kate Dezarnaulds and Her Campaign for Kiama
Kate Dezarnaulds is an independent candidate for Kiama, committed to delivering practical, community-driven solutions for the South Coast in the model of the Community Independents Project and backed by Climate200. A local business leader and advocate for regional investment, Kate is focused on fixing real issues, including improving infrastructure, strengthening local economies, and ensuring government funding reaches the people who need it. Kate’s campaign is built on listening to the community, advocating for transparency, and working collaboratively to achieve meaningful change. She believes that Kiama deserves a strong, independent voice in Macquarie Street—one that puts people before politics.
Authorised by Kate Dezarnaulds, 3/68 Albert St, Berry NSW 2535