On a breezy morning outside Epping North’s Woolworths, shopping trolleys rattled and kids darted through car parks – but talk among locals turned quickly from groceries to governance.
The six-month suspension of former Whittlesea mayor Aidan McLindon has reignited community tensions, as residents weighed in on the current state of the council.
For some, like long-time local resident Debbie Harrison, the suspension is less about misconduct and more about silencing dissent.
“I value his opinions, what he stands for and his philosophies,” Ms Harrison said.
“That’s why I voted for him. We want truth, we want integrity, we want common sense in this crazy world of left wokeism and sick theologies pushing our country further into communism.”
Frustrated by what she sees as political gamesmanship, Ms Harrison didn’t mince her words.
“Let’s get down to the nitty gritty. Our grasses aren’t being mowed. You have these left-wing politicians that want him out because he rocks the boat– and that’s wrong.”
Down the footpath, Patrick Richards, a plumber finishing up his lunch break, shared his frustration.
“Anyone who is willing to stand up and fight wokeness is doing a good thing,” Mr Richards said.
“It’s been forced on us, and frankly I’m sick of it.”
Pointing to the roadworks out on the street, Mr Richards added, “We just want the council to fix the real issues here– and that’s what us as taxpayers ask for by putting them there“.
Like many, he admitted to being unclear on the specifics of Mr McLindon’s suspension.
“Was there even any evidence? I haven’t read anything. They probably didn’t like the fact he wasn’t willing to be a part of their woke agenda.”
But not everyone outside the supermarket was buying that narrative.
Ravi Singh, a father juggling a toddler and a shopping bag, said the suspension was justified.
“Being outspoken is one thing, but being disruptive and disrespectful is another,” Mr Singh said.
“That kind of behaviour undermines trust in the council. We need councillors who can challenge ideas without treating people poorly.”
Despite the conflicting views, there was one unifying theme among residents: frustration.
“The council should be working for the residents, not making headlines like they have been for the past several years,” Mr Singh said, shaking his head.
“This whole circus just shows how far things have gone off track, things have to change and getting rid of a divisive character like McLindon is the first step in that process.”
