Wagga businesswoman aiming to shake up council dynamic

Prominent businesswoman Simone Eyles wants to see more action and less politics on the council floor.

She is spearheading a push from high-profile women around Wagga to bridge the gender gap in council chambers.

“There’s a term we use in tech – ripe for disruption – I think it applies to the council building,” Ms Eyles said.

“It’s not 1950 any more. Women don’t need to be at home baking cakes for their husbands.

“Women have so much to offer.”

“We can multitask, we can get things done fast, we have empathy and we’re in touch – as citizens business owners, mothers and wives.

“A lot of people, especially women, are so frustrated with the politics and the lack of action.”

Ms Eyles hasn’t been backwards in criticising council in the past.

“I’ve been quite vocal and critical about some issues, such as car parking, and I’ve been talking to a few of my mentors and a few people around town,” she said.

“My real motivation is to be a part of a change.

“If more women see other women in higher profile positions, it will encourage more to get involved.”

Ms Eyles wants to see more technological change in Wagga – something in which she has an obvious passion.

“Being a bit younger, having a tech background, and running a business, I’m hoping to bring my knowledge to the council to help the community,” she said.

“I’d really like to see Wagga and the Riverina be put on the map for technology reasons.

“People in Sydney are not going to come to Wagga for a cheaper house if they can’t get a job. They aren’t going to leave a $150,000 job to come work in a cafe for $40,000.”

Ms Eyles wants to see councillors be more engaging with the community via social media.

“The Dubbo mayor is incredible. He’s got a blog and a Facebook page and he’s got the top CEOs going to Dubbo for breakfasts,” she said.