When Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser announced last month that she was stepping away from her role, not standing for re-election in September, attention soon turned to talk about who might fill her shoes.
Less than a week later her deputy Adam Schultz was being touted as a possible replacement.
Despite the fact the father-of-three has been an experienced councillor and deputy mayor for many years, it felt like little was known about him.
So, I sat down with Councillor Shultz to ask him some tough questions to see if he was prepared for the media scrutiny he would likely be facing over the next six months.
Question 1: Adam Shultz your CV includes the terms commerce, business, risk management, and policy…does that make you well prepared for any disaster that might befall LMCC?
Answer: I believe my experience as Deputy Mayor and 7.5 years as a Councillor stand me in good stead to be Mayor of Lake Macquarie (in the event of a disaster and every other day).My skills, qualifications and experience have underpinned my career and will certainly help in the role of Mayor too!
Question 2: What is the one thing about Lake Macquarie you wish more people knew about?
Answer: People based outside of the Hunter don’t realise that Lake Macquarie is the largest saltwater lake in the Southern Hemisphere. It is important for us to look after our natural assets to ensure a lifestyle and opportunities for our residents that is second to none.
Question 3: What are the top three issues/complaints Lake Mac receives each year?
Answer:
1. Potholes on local roads following major rain events.
2. Stormwater issues and flooding of houses following rain events and impacts on the local environment.
3. The need to continue investing in local playgrounds and recreational facility upgrades.
Question 4: Do you think Lake Macquarie could defeat Newcastle in an Olympic Games type event?
Answer: Absolutely. We are home to many elite athletes and sporting stars of the future. Lake Macquarie is investing heavily in the Hunter Sports Centre redevelopment at Glendale which is set to open later this year. If elected Mayor of Lake Macquarie in September, I would be happy to challenge the other Hunter based Mayors in a 100m dash at our new centre as part of the opening festivities.
Question 5: Tell us your five favourite things
Answer:
1. Spending time with my young family
2. Boating on Lake Macquarie
3. Watching the Newcastle Knights and Newcastle Jets
4. Cooking a BBQ
5. Swimming with my kids
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