---

 

“Why not me?”

Kate Lockhart took the stage not as a career politician, but as a long-time community contributor. Her decision to run came after deep personal reflection:

“I’ve had a pretty good education and a lot of support — why shouldn’t I stand up? Maybe it’s my responsibility, given how much has been invested in me.”

A previous candidate for local government, Kate came within 350 votes of winning a council seat in Muradoc Ward in 2024. She brings with her decades of experience in natural resource management, Landcare, and gender equity advocacy.

 

The rise of the independents

The evening opened with a film showcasing the growing Community Independents movement — often dubbed the “Teals” — which has seen exponential growth over the past decade. Mik Aidt reflected on its trajectory:

“In 2013, there was one Community Independent. Then two. Then three. In the last election, there were around 10 or 11. Now, heading into 2025, there may be over 38 candidates nationally.”

Locally, the Voices of Corangamite group was born out of frustration with the status quo and a belief in grassroots democracy. Mik explained how the movement started:

“We began by asking people to run — but we hadn’t yet understood the recipe. Now we know: you begin by listening to the community. The candidate comes later.”

 

Integrity, climate, equity – and community

The themes that emerged throughout the night were strikingly consistent: integrity, climate action, equity, and the power of community connection.

Kate spoke passionately about the need for long-term thinking in politics:

“I’m disillusioned with the parties. Greens, Labor, Liberal — they’ve all lost their way. So let’s try and find a middle way.”

Mik added:

“Women are leading the way in climate action. They think long-term — about their children, their communities. And that’s what politics needs right now.”

As a scientist and a mother, Kate emphasised the importance of decisions grounded in evidence and values:
“It’s not about manipulation. It’s about translation. Translating complex issues into something we can all understand and act on.”

 

What does real climate action look like?

For Kate, climate action is local, practical and achievable. Her examples weren’t lofty — they were grounded in everyday life:

• Connected footpaths to reduce unnecessary car trips.
• Street trees to make walking more inviting.
• Public transport between local villages like Drysdale and Ocean Grove.
• Diverse and affordable housing for every stage of life.
• Solar and battery support for renters.
• Improved funding for public schools, freeing up families from excessive private school fees.
  
  

“Five million car trips under 900 metres — that’s climate action waiting to happen,” Kate said.

 

Politics with heart — and action

While the conversation was rich with ideas, it was also emotional and grounded in human experience. Several audience members shared how disillusioned they’ve become with current politicians who don’t genuinely listen.

One participant expressed relief after talking with Kate directly:

“It was such a relief to be heard. You’re a scientist — but also someone who listens. That combination matters.”

Kate’s emphasis on integrity was matched by her clear stance on preferences:

“I don’t want to tell people what to do. Vote 1 for me — and then make up your own mind. I don’t believe in preference deals that betray trust.”

So, what does success look like?

Kate was cautious about setting hard targets:

“I’d love 60,000 votes. But 10,000 or 15,000 would send a strong message. And just being here tonight — this is success.”

Mik added:

“Even if we don’t win this time, building a community, restoring trust in democracy — that’s a win.”

 

What now? How can you help?

With just five weeks until election day, the campaign now moves into high gear. Here’s how you can be part of it:

• Join a local group – Robert is doing Saturday mornings at 9.30am at Pasquinis in Point Lonsdale – Liz is doing 10am on Sunday mornings at Salty Breeze Café in Princess Park in Queenscliff.
• Attend events – More film nights and community Q&As are being planned. Join our group if you'd like to help plan one.
• Get visible – T-shirts, posters and corflutes are available. Wear orange, talk to your neighbours, and be seen.
• Spread the word online – Like and follow Voices of Corangamite on Facebook. Comment, share, and boost posts. We need 100 likes to enable live streaming.
• Write a personal message – Send an email to 20, 50 or 100 friends. Tell them why you’re supporting a Community Independent.
• Donate or volunteer – Visit Kate Lockhart’s campaign website to sign up, chip in or offer your skills.

 

Final word: Change starts here

As Mik quoted from the film that inspired the night:

“Change starts here.”

And it just did — in a packed room in Queenscliff, powered by hope, determination, and a shared belief in doing politics differently.