Improving the living conditions of people with disabilities and their carers will be high on the agenda of newly elected Whittlesea councillor Christine Stow.
The Epping mother of two was sworn in as a councillor last Thursday night.
Earlier this month, the Victorian Electoral Commission announced Cr Stow had won the north ward countback following the death of Cr Nicola Davis, who died in April after a short battle with cancer.
Cr Stow has been a long-time community advocate for children with disabilities, their carers and single parents.
She has helped establish a number of support groups in the city, including the Mernda Support and Wellness Group for women.
Cr Stow is the full-time carer for daughter Imyjen, 13, who has Schwartz-Jampel syndrome, a rare genetic disorder characterised by muscle weakness, stiffness and abnormal bone development.
“She doesn’t walk or talk so it’s important for me to be that voice for her and so many other people who have a disability in the community,” she said.
Cr Stow said that while the Whittlesea council had been progressive in establishing a disability network and improving the conditions and opportunities for people with disabilities in Whittlesea, there was still a long way to go.
“It’s a privilege to be able to serve the community,’’ Cr Stow said.
“I think my experience as a mother of a child with a disability will be pivotal in advocating for changes from a community level that will hopefully be lobbied all the way to the top.”
