Erin Deering
Erin Deering is a renowned entrepreneur and the co-founder of the successful Australian swimwear brand Triangl. She is joining Team Wood as the Deputy candidate in this year's local government election. With a sharp business acumen honed through her experience in transforming a startup into a global phenomenon, Erin brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to Melbourne's city governance.
Her tenure at Triangl is marked by innovative marketing strategies and a keen understanding of global market trends, which propelled the brand into international acclaim.
Her commitment to customer service and her capacity to foster and manage growth makes Erin a dynamic addition to Team Wood to help re-establish Melbourne as an international economic and cultural powerhouse.
Erin’s goal is to leverage her business expertise to enhance Melbourne's standing on the world stage. Erin is an advocate for policies that attract international business, enhance tourism and promote cultural exchanges, with the aim of creating a thriving, vibrant city that leverages its diverse attributes.
Her vision for Melbourne includes strategic economic initiatives that capitalise on the city’s unique strengths, fostering innovation, sustainability and inclusivity.
Philip Le Liu
Philip Le Liu lives in the Hoddle grid and is a dedicated advocate for residents and international students. Philip currently serves as a Councillor in the City of Melbourne and has been a champion for inclusive policies that support economic development and community cohesion. As a first generation Australian, Philip is committed to representing Melbourne’s residents within Council and being fiscally responsible with council’s finances.
.jpg)
.jpg)
Dr Cathy Oke OAM
Dr Oke has over 25 years’ experience in environmental science, policy and communications, including working with Lord Mayoral candidate Arron Wood, on Kids Teaching Kids environmental consultancy for 10 years.
Cathy was a Councillor at the City of Melbourne from 2008 - 2020, and in 2023 she was awarded an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her service to Local Government and the Environment.
She grew up in North Melbourne, where her parents still live, spent 8 years living in Carlton and currently lives in Kensington with her husband Chris and daughter Charley.
Cathy is the Director of a University research centre that focuses on the global impact of cities, and the role that good governance and evidenced decision making can have on social, economic and environmental sustainability. Cathy is keen to see Melbourne thrive as a just and equitable, liveable city, that supports our live music and Arts scene.
She is a proud foundation member of North Melbourne AFLW and loves nothing more than watching North Melbourne women’s team at Arden Street oval. She’s also a member of Melbourne City Football club and supports the Melbourne Vixens netball club.
Nicolas Zervos
Nicolas Zervos is an accomplished lawyer and active community leader with a deep commitment to Melbourne’s cultural and civic life. Zervos has over four decades of legal experience, including founding and leading several law firms, along with a proven track record of leadership and dedication to public service.
He previously served as a Councillor for the City of Melbourne, where he chaired key committees such as the Bourke Street Mall Committee and was actively involved in the Moomba Festival Board and the Melbourne-Thessaloniki Friendship City Committee. Nic is also passionately involved in the Greek-Australian community and has held roles as President of the National Union of Greek Australian Students and Director of the Hellenic Museum. Nic was recently honoured as 2024 Kastellorizian of the year for outstanding community contributions.
.jpg)
.jpg)
Hala Nur
Hala Nur is a proud Carlton resident, a passionate advocate for children's well-being and community empowerment and is a key figure at The Venny in Melbourne. Hala has a background in social work and community development and is committed to creating safe, inclusive and engaging environments for children.
Hala's leadership is characterised by her deep cultural awareness and dedication to fostering social connection within the diverse communities she serves. Her dedication to advocacy and building meaningful partnerships with local organisations andstakeholders has helped The Venny become a model of community-driven support for children and families in the area.
Through her work, Hala inspires positive change, nurturing resilience and empowering the next generation to thrive.
Michael Caiafa
Michael Caiafa is a second-generation trader and one of the most recognised and respected figures in the Dairy Hall of the Queen Victoria Market. His family business, M & G Caiafa – The Corner Bread Shop, sits at the heart of the market, where Michael has been working alongside his parents since the age of 13. At just 18, he took over the business with his sister, continuing a proud family tradition that spans generations. The market is truly in his blood.
Michael is a passionate local business owner, a father of three and a lover of his community. His dedication to service is evident in all aspects of his life.
Michael believes in consultation, transparency and accountability at every level of Council and governance. With his wealth of experience, strong community ties and dedication to honest representation, Michael is ready to make an effective and meaningful contribution to the City of Melbourne Council.
.jpg)
.jpg)
Hope Wei
Hope Wei’s is a Docklands’ resident and businesswoman and, supported by her background in finance and her experience as a mum of two boys, is driven to see Melbourne return to its former glory.
One of her priorities is to encourage local, domestic and international tourism to Docklands. Hope wants Docklands to gain recognition as one of the best coastal precincts in the world.
Arron Wood
Arron Wood has been a Kensington resident for nearly twenty years. Arron gets what makes Melbourne liveable as a resident and a ratepayer. He also deeply understands the challenges for Melbourne businesses, having successfully run his own small business for over two decades based in City of Melbourne, which won a coveted News Ltd Telstra Business Award.
Arron Wood is a familiar face around the City of Melbourne. With his business success and a distinguished career in public service, including in his roles as Deputy Lord Mayor and Acting Lord Mayor, Arron is once again ready to serve Melbourne in the upcoming local government elections. His mission is clear: to drive Melbourne’s recovery to a thriving, safe and future-focused city once more.
Arron's dedication to public service is matched by his passion for environmental sustainability. Before entering politics, he founded Kids Teaching Kids, an innovative education program that engages students in environmental issues through peer education. This nationally acclaimed initiative has involved over 145,000 students, highlighting Arron’s commitment to nurturing future generations.
As Deputy Lord Mayor, Arron was pivotal in driving Melbourne's sustainability agenda. He played a key role in developing and implementing policies aimed at reducing waste, driving down energy use, enhancing green spaces and promoting sustainable urban living. His efforts supported Melbourne's reputation as one of the world's most liveable cities – a title that he commits to helping Melbourne reclaim.
With a proven track record in governance, finance and environmental advocacy, Arron leads Team Wood as a non-party aligned, forward-thinking local representative who is deeply invested in the welfare and sustainability of Melbourne. His candidacy promises continued passionate leadership and dedicated public service.
In recognition of his commitment to local government, the environment and the community of Melbourne, Arron was honoured as a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2020. His return to Town Hall aims to further his legacy of positive impact and visionary leadership for Melbourne.
Steve Michelson
Strategic communications expert Steve Michelson fills the final position of Team Wood’s ticket. With a focus on driving social and political change, Michelson has worked extensively with non-profit organisations, advocacy groups and political campaigns to support those making positive change in our communities.
He is an active Labor party member and is committed to social justice as evident in his work across a range of issues, including climate action, human rights and economic equality.
