We’ve asked all Richmond Valley Council candidates to provide a 200-word introduction about why they are running in the election.
All election related stories about Richmond Valley can be found in one place here.
Because there are 23 candidates in Richmond Valley we will be presenting them in their group tickets – A, B, C and D and one ungrouped individual.
You can choose to vote for a group (above the line) on your ballot paper or you can vote for individuals by numbering them (below the line).
Here are the introductions written by Group D.
Robert Mustow
Robert Mustow is running for mayor and councillor
Lives: Casino
I was born in Casino and schooled at Casino Public and Casino High, and am a panel beater by trade. I owned and operated my successful smash repair business for 15 years.
Since becoming mayor I am very proud of the council’s achievements during some very trying times, drought, horrific bushfires, covid, six natural disasters, including the 2022 devastating flood event. Each of these challenges has tested our community, but they have also highlighted our collective strength and commitment to recovery and rebuilding.
I acknowledge that the path ahead remains challenging yet I am confident in our ability to overcome these obstacles together.
I am committed to the council continuing to be proactive and seizing any opportunities that present themselves in the future to enhance our community and address the needs of our constituents.
Our lifestyle and environment are very important to me and as our region grows we must make sure this is preserved for future generations.
With the council’s focus on housing, intergenerational infrastructure renewal (sewer and water), economic development and attracting business, I am hopeful children finishing their schooling will be able to find employment in our Local Government Area instead of needing to leave.
Steve Morrissey
Lives: Casino
Born and raised in Casino, I attended St Mary’s Primary School and Marist Brothers’ High School before becoming a butcher, running my own shop for 17 years.
Happily married to Angela, I take pride in our three children, two of whom live in Casino with our grandson.
Throughout the years, I have participated in numerous sports, notably as a member of the Casino Rugby League ‘Cougars’, along with playing cricket, touch football, squash and basketball.
My community involvement spans over 25 years at Jumbunna Community Preschool and Early Intervention Centre, including a decade on the board and currently as vice president.
I take great joy in supporting various charities and have been a long-time lead model in Casino Beef Week’s Fashion Parade. Additionally, I enjoy donning the ‘Big Fellow’s’ red suit multiple times each year, eagerly anticipating the fun and excitement it brings to the community (sshhhhh!!!…)
Currently serving as deputy mayor, I am proud of this council’s achievements and what is planned for the Richmond Valley’s future.
Community engagement is a high priority and I pride myself on being very approachable, as many would know.
Sandra Duncan-Humphrys
Lives: Casino
Job: celebrant
My husband Stephen and I moved to Casino 40 years ago to live at a slower paced life in the country, not too far from the beach. Semi-retired, I offer my professional services as a civil celebrant within the wedding and funeral industries.
Volunteering within the community began in 1994 as the inaugural secretary for COWFM107.9. It was an honour to have been awarded Life Membership a few years ago.
It was also an amazing experience to be the president of Casino Beef Week 2001. Fast forward to 2024, the Casino Country Music Muster was a new venture for me. I believe this event has the potential to spread new tourism dollars throughout the Valley as the ‘Fans in Vans’ explore all the wonders of our Valley.
I’ve been a councillor on and off, since 2000 and am standing for re-election, as I’d like to be involved in the progress of plans and projects developed and designed over the past few years. Knowing that the Regional Job Precinct Master Plan alone has the potential to build on economic prosperity throughout the Valley, I believe it is important to maintain forward momentum.
Getting on with the job would be a priority for me.
Sam Cornish
Age: 33
Born, raised, and living in the Richmond Valley, I attended primary and secondary schooling in Casino and have worked in the local government area for the past 18 years.
Having served the Richmond Valley for the past eight years as an elected member, the current council and I have helped secure $200 million worth of State and Federal funding to better improve infrastructure and liveability within the Richmond Valley, including disaster recovery funding in the wake of droughts, bushfires, pandemics, and flooding.
During my time on council, it has been pleasing to deliver multiple signature projects including, NRLX upgrade, Woodburn Riverside Park upgrade, Evans Head lookout and Stan Payne Oval upgrade, Coraki Riverside Park, Casino Memorial Baths, and most recently the Casino to Bentley section of the Northern River Rail Trail.
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