First timers put hands up for trusts

Two Masterton women have put their names forward for election to separate trusts, both seeking first time election to a local body.

Sandy Ryan, manager of Masterton Safe and Healthy Community Council, is seeking a place on Masterton Trust Lands Trust - which trades under the name Lands Trust Masterton - and Mena Antonio is looking to become a trustee on Masterton Licensing Trust.

Mrs Ryan is community development officer for Masterton District Council and said she decided to stand so she could help tap the "untapped potential" of Masterton.

For three years she has worked alongside district councillor Doug Bracewell developing and establishing the free school-holiday programme for children aged 5-13.

She has established Neighbourhood Support Programmes in Wairarapa and successfully applied on behalf of Wairarapa Community Centre for funding to buy 41 Perry St.

She has also served on the Wairarapa COGS committee, Wairarapa Women's Centre and Literacy Wairarapa.

Mrs Antonio narrowly missed out on election to Masterton Licensing Trust in 2010.

The working mother-of-two said her experience serving on several boards gives her the skills needed to make good decisions. She is mentoring senior film students on a youth video project featuring Wairarapa young people in positive and creative activities, supported through her work with Toi Wairarapa.

Mrs Antonio said Masterton Licensing Trust is an important funder and its grants can make a huge difference. "I want to work together with other major funders to bring together minds and funds to improve choices for families and all people in our community."