What a journey this has been. Nearly a third of voters in Cottesloe gave us their first preference - an unprecedented result for this electorate. And while that wasn't enough to get us over the line this time, that alone is a powerful statement. It shows that people are ready for something different, and I sincerely hope the newly elected member takes notice.
From North Fremantle to south City Beach, from Mosman Park to Cottesloe, Peppermint Grove, Claremont, Mt Claremont, and Swanbourne - this campaign reached every corner of our community. The message from voters across our suburbs was clear: Cottesloe won’t be taken for granted again.
Congratulations to Sandra Brewer on being elected as the new Member for Cottesloe. I wish her well in representing our community and hope she listens to the strong message this election has sent - that people want transparency, integrity, and real action on the issues that matter most.
From the very beginning, this campaign was about something bigger than winning a seat. It was about standing up for integrity, fairness, and community-driven decision-making. It was about proving that politics can and should be done differently - with honesty, transparency, and people at the centre.
Throughout this campaign, I’ve had the privilege of listening to so many members of our community. I heard from young people struggling to access mental health services, from families worried about the impact of overdevelopment, from health workers stretched to their limits, and from locals deeply concerned about the lack of climate action. These conversations reinforced why I put my hand up in the first place - because Cottesloe deserves real representation, not complacency.
Our campaign championed policies that reflect the needs of our community: restoring fairness to planning and development decisions, investing in public health and mental health services, and pushing for a smarter, greener future powered by renewables. We called for integrity in politics by demanding a ban on property developer donations. And we stood firm on protecting our local environment, advocating for stronger tree canopy protections and genuine action on climate change. These aren’t just policies; they’re the issues that matter to the people of Cottesloe, and this election made it clear that our community is looking for leadership that listens.
But none of this would have been possible without you.
To my incredible core campaign team - you are nothing short of extraordinary. The hours you put in, the dedication you showed, and the way you each slotted into your roles with such skill and commitment was nothing short of inspiring. I have been constantly in awe of your energy, your ideas, and your ability to keep pushing forward no matter what. I am so grateful for your support, your wisdom, and, most of all, your friendship.
To every single person who volunteered - whether you handed out flyers, knocked on doors, waved a corflute, hosted an event, or simply shared a post online, you made this campaign what it was. Your belief in what we were fighting for kept me going through the long days (and nights!). Every conversation you had, every hour you spent helping, every bit of encouragement you gave - it all made a difference.
To those who voted for me, thank you for putting your trust in me. And to those who supported us in any way, big or small, please know that this is not the end. What we built in this campaign will carry forward, because the appetite for change in Cottesloe is real.
Our team will continue working to ensure our community’s voice is heard, so stay tuned for opportunities to share the issues that matter most to you with the local member. We’re not stepping away from the fight for a better Cottesloe, and I hope you’ll be part of what comes next.
This has been one of the greatest privileges of my life, and I will never forget it. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to stand alongside.
With love, gratitude, and hope for the future,
Dr Rachel 🩵