Daniel Craig, Independent, Wyong Ward

1/ financial experience

With over 10 years of leadership experience, I have a proven track record in managing significant budgets and leading financially successful outreach and educational projects. For the NSW state government, I managed project budgets totalling $5 million, overseeing strategic budget planning, resource allocation, and financial stewardship across various initiatives. My expertise extends to financial oversight of large-scale projects, including award-winning innovations and international collaborations. This experience has sharpened my ability to strategically manage resources while driving impactful programs that align with organizational goals and stakeholder interests.

2/ work experience

I have extensive experience in education and public sector leadership, beginning as a teacher and expanding to roles in high-profile educational institutions like Questacon and the Natural History Museum London. At these institutions, I developed and led impactful educational programs reaching thousands of students. Transitioning to the NSW public sector, I focused on WHS research, leading outreach initiatives at SafeWork NSW. My work involved strategic communication, stakeholder engagement, and the management of award-winning projects. This blend of educational expertise and public sector leadership showcases my ability to drive innovative programs across diverse settings.

3/ community activism or involvement

I have been deeply engaged in the Central Coast community since moving here in 2017. My passion for theatre led me to work with four local community theatre organisations, performing in two council-run theatres and taking on roles such as volunteer coordinator for Red Tree Theatre, a part of the Elderslee Foundation. My involvement reflects a commitment to enhancing local arts, supporting community initiatives, and fostering strong community ties through event organisation, volunteer management, and cultural engagement.

4/ What current public causes/issues do you agree with?

I am committed to supporting groups that prioritise the overall well-being and future of the Central Coast community while ensuring inclusivity. It is important to back initiatives that enhance our region’s quality of life, whether they relate to environmental preservation, accessible infrastructure, or community services. However, this support must not come at the expense of others’ needs or perspectives. My approach is to collaborate with groups whose goals align with broader community interests, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and that the benefits of any initiative are shared equitably across the Central Coast.

5/ Why should I vote for you?

People should vote for me because I am committed to putting the community first, ensuring that every decision made benefits local residents and homeowners while preserving our unique environment for future generations. With experience in education, community theatre, and public service, I bring a well-rounded perspective that prioritises inclusivity, collaboration, and transparency. I have a proven track record of engaging with diverse stakeholders and finding practical solutions that work for everyone. My focus is on creating positive, sustainable outcomes for the Wyong Ward and the greater Central Coast, advocating for responsible development, and maintaining the vibrant community spirit that makes our region special.

Q1/ What’s important to you from the Operational plan’s vision and framework?

Choose three

A2/ Celebrate and continue to create opportunitiesfor inclusion where all people feel welcome and participate in community life

Endorse – As the third largest council by population, I want to ensure all residents and visitors feel respected, included and celebrated.

F1/ Protect our rich environmental heritage by conserving beaches, waterways, bushland, wildlife corridors and innland areas, and the diversity of local native species

Endorse – One of our biggest assets is the abundance of natural spaces. A promoted focus on the Central Coast’s environment would be a win for all.

J3/ Improve bus and ferry frequency and ensure networks link with train services to minimise journey times

Endorse – With minimal space for additional cars, we need to focus on providing public transport services that meet the needs of the community.

 

Q2/ Which upcoming plans already in the pipeline do you support?

Endorse

Q2 – Coastal Management program for Hawkesbury River including Brisbane Waters.

Q3 – Cultural Plan for the Central Coast – Listening + Labs

Q4 – Community Strategic Plan – the current plan, due to expire in 2028, needs to be reviewed and evaluated to see where Council can improve it’s implementation.

Delete

Q2 – Landscape/Street Design DCP Chapter – This was only completed last year, there are other priorities.

Q3 – Kibble Park Upgrade Stage 1 – While important, this could be moved to a later quarter to align with other development in Gosford.

Q4 – Local Strategic Planning Statement – We currently have one that is through until 2036. A interim review was completed in 2020 so could be delayed.

 

Q3/ Do you support keeping the 2021 ten year special rate variation (rate increase) beyond 2031?

No.

 

Q4/ How would you increase revenue

(Use the operational plan to give three examples)

Develop New Revenue Streams for the Visitor Information Centre (ID: DP_109)
Current Target: Increase sales revenue by 5% by June 2025.
We could expand product offerings, such as local artisan goods and exclusive Central Coast merchandise, which could increase revenue by an additional 10% by broadening the target audience beyond tourists.

Deliver Year 3 Actions of the Destination Management Plan (ID: DP_057)
Current Target: Deliver actions by June 2025.
We could introduce premium experience packages (e.g., eco-tours) and partnerships with local businesses to boost revenue streams, enhancing the visitor experience and driving additional spending.

Maximize Commercial Use of Gosford Regional Art Gallery (ID: DP_034)
Current Target: Delivery of high-quality exhibitions and programs at Gosford Regional Art Gallery.
Utilise and promote spaces for private events, art classes, and workshops with ticketed entry to generate consistent revenue streams while maintaining community engagement.

Q5/ How would you reduce expenditure

(Using the same operational plan for examples)

Optimize Materials and Contracts Efficiency (ID: DP_014)
Current Target: Develop and deliver community capacity-building projects.
Consolidation of similar capacity-building projects and streamline resources to avoid duplication could reduce material and consultancy costs by up to 10%.

Reduce Waste in Capital Works (ID: DP_191)
Current Target: Ensure a 99% waste collection rate.
Implementing predictive maintenance and advanced logistics for waste management to cut down on emergency repairs and fuel costs, potentially lowering operating expenditure by 5-7%.

Digital Process Improvements (ID: DP_126)
Current Target: Improve customer experience request systems.
Use new and existing technologies to automate routine customer service processes and responses, reducing manual interventions and associated labour costs, leading to long-term savings.