Election strikes balance

By Bridget Brady
The women, elected across four of the six wards, are Shar Balmes, Karen Baxter, Amanda Stapledon, Lynette Keleher and the re-elected Lorraine Wreford.
Ms Wreford said she was delighted that five women would represent Casey residents.
“Gender balance of course is very positive for council and for the community,” she said. “I was hoping four women would be elected, but to get five is fantastic.”
Ms Balmes said a women’s association that addressed female candidates helped her during her campaign.
“It was a great inspiration and it really spurred me on,” Ms Balmes said.
“I have felt that there has been too much testosterone flying around the council chambers so this is very positive and very exciting,” Ms Wreford said.
Ms Keleher said that while the women would not always agree on issues, she was thrilled that five were elected.
Voters elected two women to the City of Casey council in 1997 and 2005, and one in 2000 and 2003 when there were 11 councillors.
No women were elected to Cardinia Shire Council this year.
Ms Halsall said she was pleased five females were elected to provide an important balance to the council.