Campbelltown Councillor Seta Berbari says she’s more interested in helping people than politics.
There’s two reasons for that, she confesses: a tremendous love for Campbelltown and being the kind of person who wants to bring people together for the common good.
“I have not known any other place than Campbelltown since I set foot in Australia, and I didn’t know anybody, I had no family, nothing when I came here,’’ says Cr Berbari.
“But honestly, I’ve never seen people like Campbelltown before, so welcoming, kind, and generous.’’
She says the Covid period was especially amazing for her, having just opened Seta’s Café in Dumaresq Street.
“Yes, it was amazing; people would come in and give me $50, because it was a tough time. Others would bring us a cup full of sugar because we had run out.
“You don’t see this kind of thing anywhere else,’’ she says.
“If people hear that a business is struggling, they will come running to help; that’s Campbelltown.’’
Cr Berbari was elected to council two years ago as a Community First – Totally Independent Party Councillor, alongside Cr Warren Morrison and leader Josh Cotter.
Next Tuesday, she will throw her hat in the ring for the election of deputy mayor.
And if she wins, Cr Berbari wants to use the role to expand her drive to have everyone on council working as one.
“I am not interested in politics, I am more interested in people, into friendships and what we can achieve,’’ she says.
“We should all put aside our political views on council to do what’s right for Campbelltown as a group.
“That’s what I am always talking to the other councillors about: let’s put everything aside and do what’s right for Campbelltown.
“I feel like I’ve made a difference in the two years since I was elected.
“I feel like I have a good relationship with Darcy (Mayor Lound), and I would be able to discuss things more with him if I was deputy mayor to achieve more for Campbelltown.’’
Community First – Totally Independent Party leader Josh Cotter said those who met Seta Berbari knows she doesn’t have a political bone in her body.
“She is first and foremost a community advocate who genuinely cares about people and wants to make a difference in the city she calls home,’’ he said.
“As an independent Councillor and local business owner, Seta brings a very grounded perspective to Council.
“She understands our community because she is part of it, and I’ve seen firsthand the lengths she will go to support residents, local organisations and businesses, often without any fanfare or expectation of recognition.
“For Seta, putting her hand up for Deputy Mayor isn’t about politics or a title. It’s about having another opportunity to advocate for Campbelltown, represent our residents and help people wherever she can.
“I think that genuine community-first approach is exactly what the role of Deputy Mayor should be about, and it’s why Warren and I are very happy to support her.”
