COMMUNITY advocate Tony Brown has announced his candidacy as an independent for the state seat of Newcastle, saying he had a proven track record standing up for the region.
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Mr Brown said he felt so disenfranchised after the recent revelations of corruption at ICAC that he helped to establish the Hunter Region Concerned Citizens group (HRCC), but it was now critical to take the next step.
‘‘It’s appalling that politicians and the business community are saying it’s business as usual, when our confidence in our political system has been grievously wounded and the city’s reputation has been seriously damaged,’’ he said.
‘‘There’s a strong sense around the community that people are feeling short-changed and betrayed by the major political parties.
‘‘We need a fresh clean start, a true independent who is not politically aligned or directed by either of the parties, who has stamina and persistence and can stand up for Newcastle, similar to Greg Piper, John Hatton and Ted Mack.’’