My Story.
I have lived in the western suburbs my entire life. I was born in Williamstown Hospital to migrant parents. Dad had come from Italy in 1951 and Mum from northern Italy in 1955. As many migrants they came here to start a better life.
I grew up in Altona North and attended Annunciation Primary and Emmanuel (St Paul’s) College. After graduating as a doctor, working in hospitals, I commenced work as a GP in Werribee in 1988. I have lived in Werribee South for 15 years.
Dr Joe Garra
I believe the community is best represented by a local who has experience with the local issues. As Chair of the Ratepayers of Werribee South I was involved with the community in the protest again the proposed Youth Detention Centre in East Werribee, and with the proposed dumping of toxic soil near the Werribee River.
Some of my other involvement has been as a mentor to students at Emmanuel College, volunteering on game days whilst my daughters played soccer at Point Cook Jets, and, together with Wyndham Council, setting up a vaccine hub at the Encore Centre. A similar model was then used in Point Cook.
As an independent I can freely advocate for our needs without political interreference. The main issues are health, transport, jobs, infrastructure and schools. My pledge is to be a member for the community. The west has been neglected for decades by both sides of politics.
