Roy, first elected to the City of Ryde council in 2008, champions honest, open and transparent governance. Representing ratepayers, residents, businesses, families and workers, Roy is always approachable and committed to addressing and resolving issues. For over 16 years, he has prioritised community needs and concerns, striving to find solutions. Born and raised in Ryde, Roy has been an active member of local school communities, sporting clubs and associations in various roles, including administrator, player, coach and match official. He frequently volunteers for local events and organisations. Passionate about a healthy active city, improving the community, Roy advocates for sport and recreational venues, outdoor spaces and facilities, ensuring the council allocates vision and funding for upgrades and future projects. As a sole trader, Roy's expertise in economic and financial sustainability helps hold the council accountable, minimising waste and overspending of ratepayer funds.
Greg is a dedicated local dad of two high school-aged boys who completed their primary education at Gladesville Public School, just up the road from where Greg attended Ryde Public. Holding a Bachelor of Commerce from UNSW, Greg is a proud resident of Gladesville with a successful career in business. He has been heavily and consistently involved in local sports for many years, including Ravens Soccer, Pirates Cricket, and nearly 30 years with Hawks Touch. Greg is passionate about outdoor recreation and advocates for open access to council amenities to maximize participation, exercise and enjoyment for all in the community. Greg's key agenda is to give back and provide resources for the local community to make the most of Ryde's wonderful surroundings. As a firm believer in doing the right thing, Greg is committed to ensuring the community's best interests are always at the forefront of his actions.
Efi has proudly called the Ryde area home for most of her life, cherishing it as the ideal environment to raise her family. Her educational path took her through Riverside Girls High School and the See Street Gallery School at Meadowbank, grounding her deeply in the community. With a profound commitment to advocating for the local community, Efi leverages her rich experiences and insights to support individuals from diverse backgrounds. Currently serving as a counsellor and psychotherapist, she is also the assistant director of a volunteer-based counselling centre that offers free services to those in need. Efi’s passion for family, community, and the environment, combined with her dedication to mental health, drives her mission to amplify the community's voice and enhance the quality of life for all residents.
Lina is a true local, having lived in the Ryde Community for close to 50 years. Her children have been raised in the area, attended our local schools and this continues with her grandchildren. They are all active participants in our local sporting clubs. As a successful small business owner and a champion of community sport, Lina is well credentialed to listen and understand the community’s needs and requirements. Lina’s involvement in community sport as a Volunteer, includes over 27 years with Putney Rangers Football Club as a player and committee member (the last 11 as President), 5 years as a Director of Gladesville Hornsby Football Association (GHFA) and continues volunteering as a director with NWSF Spirit FC. As an Independent candidate, Lina shares a vision that benefits Ryde’s community as a whole, by enabling small business to thrive, providing community facilities and services for all ages to utilise, solving current issues and planning for a brighter future.
Born in Ryde Hospital, I have spent my entire life in Ryde, actively engaging with the community throughout the years. My educational journey included St Michaels Meadowbank School, OLMC Epping, and Marsden High School. I firmly believe our community is one of the best in NSW. My community involvement began in the 1980s, taking the role of President of the West Ryde Rovers Sports and Social Club, a position I proudly hold to this day. My engagement with the council has included participation in the Sports Advisory and various other advisory roles. Currently, I am a disability support worker at All About Caring, where I enjoy helping and supporting others. My dedication to grassroots sports in the Ryde area was recognised with the awarding of an OAM in 2022, an honour I cherish and strive to uphold. Leadership Roles: President, West Ryde Rovers Sports and Social Club (1982 – Present); President, ERNA (2017 – Present); NWSF Chair (2019 – 2023); Committee Member, Ryde Athletics; Director, Ryde Sports Foundations. I am running for Councillor to provide a voice for our community. For too long, politics has overshadowed our council, and it is time for the people's needs to be prioritised, as these decisions impact our daily lives.
Michelle has called West Ryde home since her youth, attending West Ryde Primary School and Marsden High School. Michelle is an enthusiastic community advocate who believes in the power of community spirit (especially in football) to bring people together. She is actively involved in organising events and fundraisers for local charities and youth programs. She believes in using her platform as a dedicated football fan to inspire others to get involved in their communities and make a positive impact. Michelle strives to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all, regardless of their background or affiliation. She is truly a community spirited individual who is dedicated to making a difference on and off the pitch.
Philip is a loving father and grandfather to five grown children and two grandchildren. Born and bred in Ryde, having attended Denistone East Public School and Ryde High School. My deep love for our City of Ryde has driven my lifelong commitment to our community. I have been actively involved in various community events through my church and for over 35 years, I have participated and supported events such as the Granny Smith Festival, West Ryde Easter Parade, Christmas Carols in the park at West Ryde, and many more local festivities. It’s a privilege to run for council in the upcoming local election. I am dedicated to serving our community and ensuring that Ryde continues to thrive. Your support and vote are greatly appreciated as we work together for the betterment of our beloved city.
As a proud resident of Melrose Park since 1998, I have deep roots in our vibrant community. My two children, who have grown up here, attended our local primary schools and long day care centres within the City of Ryde. My son, a dedicated soccer player with WRR, has thrived in the supportive environment our community offers. He has also been supported to develop skills further in completing Football Referring certification to further help our community sports. We are active members of the local dog park community, which has strengthened our bonds, especially during the challenges of the pandemic. My passion for the environment and beekeeping drives my commitment to promote sustainable practices and awareness in our community. I actively participate in local trivia nights, allowing me to connect with more locals and foster stronger community ties. Additionally, I am dedicated to supporting local initiatives, including fundraising events for our primary schools, soccer clubs, dance schools, and polling election days. Together, we can continue to build a thriving, connected and environmentally conscious community, Ryde deserves a bright future.
My name is Nicole Rizk, and I have had the privilege of calling West Ryde my home for my entire life. Growing up in such a welcoming community has truly shaped who I am today. I began my education at St Michael’s, Meadowbank and later attended high school at Marist Sisters College, Woolwich. I pursued tertiary studies in business and commerce, driven by a strong interest in marketing. However, I soon realised my true calling was in teaching. I wanted to be a guiding force for the younger generation, providing them with the same support and encouragement that helped me during my own school years. Teaching allows me to make a meaningful impact on my students' lives, both academically and personally. I come from a loving family of six, and although we experienced the heartbreaking loss of my father due to COVID, his memory continues to inspire me every day. His values and the sense of community he instilled in me remain at the core of everything I do. In my personal life, I have a wonderful companion, my pet Shoodle named Beau, who brings joy to many around our local park. Being a teacher and a welfare coordinator is incredibly fulfilling for me. It gives me the opportunity to educate and support students academically while also helping them develop a holistic understanding of how to be the best version of themselves. I am passionate about guiding my students through their educational journey and providing them with the tools they need to succeed in all aspects of life. I have decided to run for council because I believe everyone in our community has a voice that should be heard. If elected, I aim to make a tangible impact on my community, leveraging my deep connection to Ryde.
Louis has been a devoted resident of Putney for over a decade, valuing the family-centric and community-driven ethos that defines our area. He is dedicated to maintaining this environment for the benefit of future generations. Throughout his time here, Louis has actively engaged in various local activities, forging connections with numerous residents. As a former President of the Parents and Friends Association at St Charles Primary School, he worked closely with local families, attentively listening to and addressing their concerns. In addition, Louis has volunteered with the Ryde chapter of St Vincent's for nearly five years, consistently participating in fieldwork to support those in need, exemplifying his unwavering commitment to community service and outreach.
Meray Hajjar has been a vibrant member of the Ryde community for at least a decade living in the heart of Ryde. She hails from a background in the beauty industry including hairdressing and beauty therapy before supplementing her education and broadening her skill set with courses in herbal medicine and subsequently interior design. Meray has been a business owner for close to 30 years. She has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to community involvement which includes organising fundraising events for cancer research; providing hairdressing and beauty therapy services to individuals with disabilities; founding a Sunday School at St Michael's Primary School, Meadowbank; serving as a catechist at St Charles Primary School, Ryde; teaching hairdressing in Ryde; and participating in Chamber of Commerce events to support apprenticeships and career goals for young Australians. Meray is married and a devoted mother to four wonderful children who successfully balances family life with a deep passion for community service, as well as helping vulnerable people in our community such as the elderly, people with disabilities and young international students. Meray is seeking to become a councillor because she is deeply committed to enhancing Ryde community’s well-being and creating a vibrant, safe and sustainable environment by helping make council decisions that shape the growth of Ryde and the lifestyle it offers.
As a dedicated primary school teacher and nanny, I have spent my entire life in West Ryde, deeply rooted in this vibrant community. Growing up in a close-knit family of four, I have strong connections to our neighbourhood. My father, a Lebanese migrant, has called West Ryde home for over 30 years and we have all embraced his belief that Ryde is a welcoming place for everyone. My professional life revolves around nurturing young minds, and I take great joy in teaching and caring for children. This passion drives my commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching environment for our community's youth. Outside of work, I am an avid fitness enthusiast. I enjoy taking my dog, Louie, for walks around our local park, which allows me to stay active and appreciate the outdoors. In my downtime, I find solace in reading and practicing Pilates, activities that provide me with calm and balance amidst my busy schedule. I am excited to bring my lifelong dedication to education, my love for our community, and my commitment to well-being to the role of Councillor. Together, we can ensure that Ryde remains a welcoming and thriving community for all.
"I wholeheartedly support Ryde Independent Councillor Roy Maggio for Mayor. Unlike major political parties, Clr Maggio prioritises community needs and listens to our concerns. His bipartisan approach, accessibility and proven track record make him the best choice. Let's unite behind Clr Maggio for a brighter future. "