Accessible HTML format. Statements are also available in PDF format with candidate photos and web links (where provided by candidates).
Your vote must be received by 2 pm on Monday 31 March 2025
Voting is compulsory
There are by-elections being held for Dorset Council:
As well as this booklet, your postal ballot pack contains:
The elected mayoral candidate can only accept the position if they are either a current councillor or the newly-elected councillor.
The elected councillor and mayor will serve until October 2026.
For further information, help, or to learn about the TEC's Impartial Assisted Voting Service, visit the TEC website or call 1800 801 701.
Postal services take a number of days, so it is important to complete and return your vote now.
Your vote must be received by 2 pm Monday 31 March 2025
Failure to vote may incur a fine.
Don't delay – late votes won't be counted!
Follow these five easy steps:
Candidates were invited to provide a statement and photo for your consideration*.
Statements appear here in alphabetical order but the names on your ballot paper may not be in the same order.
Number the boxes on each ballot paper from 1 onwards in the order of your choice.
Put your completed ballot papers in the ballot paper envelope and seal it securely.
Sign your ballot paper envelope — your vote won't be counted if you don't.
Then put your ballot paper envelope in the reply paid envelope and seal it.
Post your reply paid envelope straight away (no stamp needed), or take your vote to the Dorset Council office.
*Statements are reproduced substantially as supplied by candidates.
I endeavour to create practical, common sense outcomes for our community so that we can thrive into the future. My family roots run deep in Dorset which has instilled in me a great passion for this region. We are raising a young family here and I am standing for mayor at this time to help ensure that Dorset stays a vibrant, exciting place to live, do business now and into the future. Agriculture is my passion, I have a degree in agricultural science and work as an agronomist whilst running a small farming business. At this time we need no fuss leadership with drive and honesty.
I am an experienced councillor with sound knowledge of local government and a long family history in the north east. Our new council task is to bring forward the strengths and skills of a fresh team working with and for the community, building confidence and pride in Dorset, promoting our region. I am committed to the future of all of the NE with balanced infrastructure development across the region, recognising exciting potential for innovation and growth, inclusion and meaningful work, while valuing the heritage of our beautiful towns and environment. I am a team leader and a team player.
My offer to the Dorset community as mayor is to use my 40 years of experience in community organisations and state government to foster and develop a cohesive, future focused council that achieves positive and productive outcomes for Dorset through consultation, collaboration, strong management and leadership.
I understand the importance of stable governance and a positive working relationship between elected members and employees. I am experienced in leadership and delivering policy, regulation, industry development and representation outcomes in local, state and national forums.