Last updated: 12/02/2026

You can view the official ballot order on the WAEC page

Mayor Candidate Profiles 

BEHREND, Jacinta

I am experienced community advocate and proud Hedland local, standing for council with the Town of Port Hedland. I have lifelong involvement across local arts, sport, education and health, and for this was honoured to be awarded the ToPH Active Community Citizen Award in 2025.

I am Chairperson of the Hedland Well Women's Centre, bringing strong governance, accountability and community leadership. I hold qualifications in law and business studies and am an AICD accredited board professional.

I am guided by purpose, integrity, and accountability, and believe good leadership starts with listening and follows through with action. I am standing for council to help bring together the voices of our community and work constructively with the administration to support a strong, prosperous future for Hedland. I am focused on delivering what matters most to residents while bringing stability and sound judgement to council decisions.

Ready to listen, lead, and deliver for Hedland's future.

Nominating for Mayor

Email: jacintabehrend@outlook.com

Additional information about this candidate can be found here

EDWARDS, Frank 

To all Electors of Port Hedland,

I would like your support to create a better place now and for the future generations of our Town.

I would like to set up a fund for All Sporting Codes where they are Supplied with all Equipment required so the athletes have a fair chance of reaching their goals with the Towns Full Support.

I would like to see a new retirement village for our retirees and KFC and Hungry Jacks just to mention a couple.

I have been a local since 1960, and contributed to many local projects, and events, coached junior football, helping and building South Hedland.

I have passed a Business Management Certificate to be able to run Pony Rides professionally for the children from 2000 to 2015 as well as building a rodeo and running 2 rodeos as owner and the liquor licensee.

They say Port Hedland is the Power House of Western Australia, then it is time we get a bigger slice of the pie.

With your help we can make a difference.

Nominating for Mayor  

Email: droversrodeo@hotmail.com

Postal address: PO Box 737 PORT HEDLAND 6721 

BLANCO, Camilo

I'm Camilo (Milo) Blanco, I have been your Mayor previously, I have no choice but to run for Mayor again.

My achievements are well publicised. I focus on living within our means, I increased our income by charging industry rates, something not achieved in 60 years of iron ore exports.

We paid off all our debt, increased expenditure on Hedland's assets and renewal from a historical 4–6 million a year to 40+ million a year program, rate increases stopped while i was on council.

I fight the real issues, alcohol related harm, domestic violence, child sex abuse, police resources, crime, education, truancy, health, housing.

I want every kid coming out of our high school getting a job in our town, keeping our families together.

I demand State Government accountability in these areas they are responsible for.

We cannot remain silent to all the problems faced, you know I can take the fight to the Government.

The question, do you want more of these improvements?

If so, I am your choice for Mayor

Nominating for Mayor  

Mobile: 0427 092 322

Email: blanco30@bigpond.com

Social Network Address: Camilo Blanco – Anticorruption Activist – Political Commentator

CHRISTENSEN, Ash

Pilbara born and proudly Hedland raised, I have lived and worked in this community my entire life.

I have served as a Councillor and Deputy Mayor, gaining first hand experience in how local government works and where it can fail when leadership, trust and stability are missing.

I remained committed through the most challenging period council has faced because leadership means staying accountable when it is hardest. That experience shaped my belief that residents should see value for their rates in their daily lives. 

My focus is on rebuilding confidence in council through collaboration with councillors and the administration, clearer communication with the community, and practical decision making.

I believe council must prioritise maintenance and basic amenities before extravagant projects and deliver real value for ratepayers.

I am committed to remaining in Hedland long after decisions are made and being accountable for the outcomes they deliver.  

Nominating for Mayor

Mobile: 0474 195 034 

Email: ashlieghchristensen@hotmail.com 

Additional information about this candidate can be found here

BUTSON, Lorraine

I have lived in Hedland for 59 years and proudly call it home. For 49 years I have worked in our locals hospitals as a nurse, showing a lifelong commitment to Health Care and Community wellbeing.

I have also owned and operated a local floristry business for 30 years supporting small business. Hedland is where I raised my family and built my life.

I understand the real issues facing our town, including crime and community safety, housing shortages, childcare, youth and family support, essential services and the urgent need for and aged care residential village.

As Mayor, I will provide strong united leadership and work closely with Councillors, Community Stakeholders, Small businesses and State and Federal Government.

I'm committed to listening to our Community and Advocating for Practical Solutions that move Hedland forward together.

Nominating for Mayor

Mobile:0483 212 320

Postal Address: 50 Greene Place SOUTH HEDLAND 6722

Email: creationsbyamberrose59@gmail.com

TAYLOR, Barry

My name is Barry Taylor. I am 63 years of age and live at my family's property Jinparinya some 20 kilometers north of Port Hedland. I am a local Nyamal man born and raised in Port Hedland. I have three sons and one daughter and eight grandchildren.

I have strong traditional and business ties to the Pilbara region. Following my schooling in Port Hedland and Perth, I completed my Spray-Painting apprenticeship in Hedland. I then went and worked in the Public Service for several years.

I have 36 year's experience in Aboriginal affairs and 25 years in the Mining Industry.

I was appointed Executive Chairperson of a company called Ngarda Civil & Mining that employed 450 people throughout Australia.

I offer leadership and experience in administration in my previous roles in government and business.

Nominating for Mayor

Mobile: 0483 212 320

Postal Address: P.O. Box 2311 SOUTH HEDLAND 6722

Email: barrytaylor466@gmail.com

CARTER, Peter

I have previously served as Mayor of Port Hedland leading one of Western Australia’s most complex and strategically significant regional communities. My experience includes overseeing Major Capital works programs, strengthening governance and delivering long‑term economic, social and infrastructure outcomes for residents. I have worked closely with local businesses, industry partners, Traditional Owners, community organisations and all levels of Government to ensure decisions are transparent, accountable, and grounded in community needs.

During my tenure I helped secure significant funding for Port Hedland projects, advanced key worker housing initiatives and supported economic diversification efforts that improve the liveability and long‑term sustainability for Port Hedland.

I bring a strong understanding of local government management and planning. I am committed to supporting our community through all levels of government to make sure Port Hedland can be a great place to call home.

Nominating for Mayor

Mobile: 0458 093 440

Postal Address: PO BOX 3002 SOUTH HEDLAND 6722

Email: petercarter288@yahoo.com

Social Network Address: Petercarter288@yahoo.com

DACCACHE, George

Hedland residents, I am running for the position of Mayor, because I believe I can lead our town to a better situation than we are in at present.

I have the experience to lead with elected Councillors, to progress our town, to bigger and better future for all those that work, live, and play in our Town of Port Hedland.

I will be your Mayor for the people, our town and our future.

Nominating for Mayor

Mobile: 0417 942 611

Postal Address: 26 Dempster Street PORT HEDLAND 6721

Email: georgedaccache8@gmail.com

Social Network Address: https://www.facebook.com/george.daccache.982

Councillor Candidate Profiles 

SCOTT, Jemma

I am a long-term resident of Port Hedland, deeply committed to our community's future in the Pilbara. With two years living here, I have been working with an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation as a Community Engagements Officer, liaising with stakeholders and service providers to create collective impact and change to the Hedland community, and also as a Support Worker – working hand in hand with families. In 2024 I had the honour and privilege to be selected for the WA Youth Parliament program where I learnt how to write bills, amend legislation and debate in Parliament. These experiences have given me a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities we face, as well as how to tackle them. I believe in transparent, collaborative decision making that puts Port Hedland residents first. I am dedicated to listening to diverse voices and working constructively with fellow councillors for a prosperous, inclusive future.

Nominating for Councillor  

Mobile: 0438 604 496

Email: jemma.scott@outlook.com

Social Network: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586933648625 

Additional information about this candidate here

BEHREND, Jacinta

I am experienced community advocate and proud Hedland local, standing for council with the Town of Port Hedland. I have lifelong involvement across local arts, sport, education and health, and for this was honoured to be awarded the ToPH Active Community Citizen Award in 2025.

I am Chairperson of the Hedland Well Women's Centre, bringing strong governance, accountability and community leadership. I hold qualifications in law and business studies and am an AICD accredited board professional.

I am guided by purpose, integrity, and accountability, and believe good leadership starts with listening and follows through with action. I am standing for council to help bring together the voices of our community and work constructively with the administration to support a strong, prosperous future for Hedland. I am focused on delivering what matters most to residents while bringing stability and sound judgement to council decisions.

Ready to listen, lead, and deliver for Hedland's future.

Nominating for Councillor 

Email: jacintabehrend@outlook.com

Additional information about this candidate can be found here

EDWARDS, Frank 

To all Electors of Port Hedland,

I would like your support to create a better place now and for the future generations of our Town.

I would like to set up a fund for All Sporting Codes where they are Supplied with all Equipment required so the athletes have a fair chance of reaching their goals with the Towns Full Support.

I would like to see a new retirement village for our retirees and KFC and Hungry Jacks just to mention a couple.

I have been a local since 1960, and contributed to many local projects, and events, coached junior football, helping and building South Hedland.

I have passed a Business Management Certificate to be able to run Pony Rides professionally for the children from 2000 to 2015 as well as building a rodeo and running 2 rodeos as owner and the liquor licensee.

They say Port Hedland is the Power House of Western Australia, then it is time we get a bigger slice of the pie.

With your help we can make a difference.

Nominating for Councillor 

Email: droversrodeo@hotmail.com

Postal address: PO Box 737 PORT HEDLAND 6721 

COLES, Renae

I’ve always believed that the best outcomes come from people working together with honesty, openness, and genuine respect.

I want to serve, lead, plan for the future and make a difference for the Town of Port Hedland and surrounding communities.

Our community thrives when we work together with trust, respect, and genuine connection. Positive change happens through collaboration, and we grow by learning from the past while focusing on what strengthens us today. 

I will help create a place where everyone feels heard and supported. Strong relationships help our town flourish, guided by shared commitments by advocating for safety, housing, health, education and wellbeing.

I take pride in supporting local businesses, recognising volunteers, and caring for the landscapes that make the Pilbara unique.

By celebrating our multicultural community and honouring First Nations culture, build a place where people feel valued and proud to belong.  

Nominating for Councillor 

Mobile: 0438 933 413

Email: wrcoles78@hotmail.com  

Additional information about this candidate can be found here

McRAE, Adrian

I established GBTK in 2009; now a respected Hedland-based group of companies operating across Australia in the trades, mining & construction sectors. Since GBTK's inception, I have been privileged to employ hundreds in the Hedland & across WA. 

I cannot stand by, while Port Hedland continues to lose its once-proud spirit & our shared quality of life.

Hedland needs strong leadership to regain its status as a regional powerhouse, rebuild local clubs &, most importantly, improve the livability of our town 

I share community concerns regarding past leadership of Port Hedland. Having personally experienced ram-raids, break-ins & thefts, I believe we need a better response to local crime, lower living costs & smarter spending. 

I am fortunate to work alongside world leaders in politics, business, media, & health. I bring this business acumen & non-profit experience to the council to ensure transparency, accountability & fiscal responsibility.

My commitment is simple: I will "Think Global - Act Local". 

Nominating for Councillor

Mobile: 0424 433 333 

Email: adrian.mcrae@gbtk.com.au 

MELVILLE, Troy

I'm running to help make the town I live the place I'm proud to call home. We all understand the constraints and issues in town. We see them everyday. How do we not advocate for more health services or respite facilities for DV victims and children? Anyone seen that MRI?

How about the continual decline of businesses and services in town? Port Hedland should be epicentre of ideas and small business.

I believe sporting organisations are being charged extraordinary fees just to turn the lights on. I believe that the facilities should be fit for purpose.

How do we make the town better tomorrow, in two weeks, two months and two years. Easy we need to elect members that have the towns interests at heart. We need to have long term vibrant plan that the community can support and own.

Thank you to those that reached out and requested I run. You won me over, now it's time to vote and back it up. I implore everyone that does vote please select those you know are doing it for Hedland.

Nominating for Councillor

Mobile: 0408 351 808

Postal Address: PO Box 3454 SOUTH HEDLAND 6722 

Email: Trojan8@rocketmail.com

BUTSON, Lorraine

I have lived in Hedland 59 years and have deep roots in our community. I have worked in the local hospitals for 49 years, caring for residents and supporting community health. For 30 years I have owned a floristry business, giving me a strong understanding of the challenges faced by small businesses. I raised my family in Hedland and remain committed to our Town’s future. I am passionate about addressing community concerns such as crime and safety, housing, childcare, youth and families services, essential services and a new aged care village for our elderly. As a Councillor I will listen to residents, represent your views and work collaboratively with council, community groups and government partners. I will be a strong voice and advocate for a safer, stronger and more connected Hedland. We are The Engine Room of Australia.

Nominating for Councillor

Mobile:0483 212 320

Postal Address: 50 Greene Place SOUTH HEDLAND 6722

Email: creationsbyamberrose59@gmail.com

TODD, Sharon

Port Hedland is home not just where I live, but where my family's stories, work, and community are deeply rooted. As a Kariyarra woman and long-term resident, I carry both shared heritage and a strong commitment to our town’s future.

I have worked in mining, government, and now as a local small business owner serving families across the Pilbara. These experiences have given me insight into industry, community needs, and how decisions impact everyday people.

I am standing for Council because I believe in practical leadership, honest communication, and planning that protects both opportunity and liveability. Hedland deserves thoughtful growth, strong local voice, and decisions that support families, business, and future generations.

I care deeply about this community and will serve with integrity and respect.

Nominating for Councillor

Mobile: 0448 503 991

Email: sharon.todd68@bigpond.com

Additional information about this candidate can be found here

GILLINGHAM, Janet

As a long-time resident of Port Hedland, I have raised my children to respect our community and to be proud of their achievements. I am thankful for the opportunities they have had in the arts, education and recreation areas in our town, and for their successful employment careers.

Being a music teacher locally, and delivering music remotely through School of the Air, I understand the educational needs for young people and hardships families are experiencing. We cannot mend these issues individually, however, as part of a council working together, recommendations can be achieved and put forward to benefit our community.

As the coordinator of the Pilbara Music, and this year reaching its 50th Anniversary, I am proud to have been presented the Australia Day 2020 award for my contribution to this annual prestigious community event.

Volunteering in our town, brings our community together and enriches our community spirit.

Working together, we can be proud of our future achievements.

Nominating for Councillor

Mobile: 0407 991 227

Postal Address: PO Box 131 Port Hedland WA 6721
PORT HEDLAND 6721

Email: rusalka@outlook.com.au

Social media Address: Janet Gillingham/Facebook

Additional information about this candidate can be found here

FISHER, Jillian

Since moving to Hedland in 2014, I have been regularly attending Ordinary Council Meetings, reading info, speaking up, demanding action and offering solutions. I am across many local issues, controversial decisions, how the Town of Port Hedland functions and its current direction.

No council is without its issues.

But at our OCMs, hardworking Hedlanders voice their concerns, suggest practical solutions, save money and act on roadblocks. Long meetings mean locals are listened to and issues debated in front of the public. This is transparency and accountability in action!

Hedlanders KNOW Hedland. Not external influences who think they know better.

We CAN solve our many social/financial/community issues, regardless of demographics or streets, even though our long, tiring workday lifestyle drains enthusiasm to try, WE CAN DO IT!

Put your faith in me and elect me to this task!

I won’t stay mute nor quit when the job gets hard!!

VOTE 1 for JILLIAN FISHER and give me a To Do List!

Nominating for Councillor

Mobile: 0419 702 608

Social Network Address: hedland.fisher@proton.me

BAXTER, Rachael

My name is Rachael Baxter, and I am proud to nominate as your candidate for Councillor for the Town of Port Hedland.

I am married with three children and have made our home in South Hedland, WA for the past 4 years. As a parent, I understand firsthand the importance of creating a safe, vibrant, opportunity-filled community for our families.

Through my involvement in local sporting committees and community initiatives over the years, I have seen the strength, resilience, and potential within our town.

I hold a strong belief in promoting both mental and physical health across our community. I am passionate about supporting initiatives that encourage active lifestyles, positive wellbeing, and inclusive participation.

If elected, I am committed to working collaboratively to support sustainable growth, improved facilities, and increased opportunities for our families.

I look forward to the opportunity to serve you.

Sincerely,
Rachael Baxter
10 Trumpet Way, South Hedland
0400 771 434

Nominating for Councillor

Mobile: 0400 771 434

Email: rachaeljbaxter92@gmail.com

LITTLE, Zoe

I was born and raised in Port Hedland, and this town has shaped who I am. Growing up here has given me a deep appreciation for our people, our resilience, and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with living in a regional community. Port Hedland isn’t just where I live — it’s where I’m raising my two children. Like many local families, I care deeply about ensuring our town is a safe, inclusive, and supportive place for the next generation. Being a parent in this community has strengthened my commitment to listening, advocating, and working toward practical solutions that benefit families, young people, and seniors alike. Through my work within the legal system, I have developed a strong understanding of government processes, legislation, and accountability. This experience has strengthened my ability to navigate complex issues, make informed decisions, and ensure fairness and transparency in governance.

Nominating for Councillor

Email: zdktl@hotmail.com

Social Network Address: zdktl@hotmail.com

DACCACHE, George

Hedland residents, I am running for the position of Mayor, because I believe I can lead our town to a better situation than we are in at present.

I have the experience to lead with elected Councillors, to progress our town, to bigger and better future for all those that work, live, and play in our Town of Port Hedland.

I will be your Mayor for the people, our town and our future.

Nominating for Councillor

Mobile: 0417 942 611

Postal Address: 26 Dempster Street PORT HEDLAND 6721

Email: georgedaccache8@gmail.com

Social Network Address: https://www.facebook.com/george.daccache.982

MCDOWALL, Russell

Hedland is more than where I work – it's home. I have been in Hedland over 10 years and I'm raising my family here. As a local business owner who owns and operates in Hedland, I understand first‑hand the opportunities & challenges facing our community. I believe Hedland's future depends on balanced leadership, sensible planning and a Council that listens to its community.

Hedland has given me many opportunities and I'm nominating for Council to be a constructive, level‑headed voice, focused on what matter most to our residents – sustainable growth, livability & ensuring Hedland remains a great place to live, work & raise a family.

I value common sense, accountability, respectful collaboration and responsible decision making, underpinned by the importance of a strong connected town.
Good outcomes for Hedland come from working together and making decisions that serve the long‑term interests of the whole community.

With your support, we can help shape a stronger future for Port Hedland.

Nominating for Councillor

Mobile: 0437 570 947

Email: russell@notoriousdiesel.com