Alexandra Luxford has been a Randwick local almost her entire life. She calls Kensington home, is a Greek Australian and is proud to be the Labor Candidate for the West Ward in the upcoming Randwick council elections on September 9 in Sydney, Australia.
Alexandra is passionate about making her area a better place to live, work, and raise a family.
“Giving back to the community we live in is a very important mantra in my life. Volunteering and helping people has been a big part of who I am,” Alexandra says. She was a volunteer at Maroubra Surf Life Saving Club for more than ten years, a part of Kensington Public School P&C, as well as previously being on the executive of Mascot Kings Soccer Club. She is still currently an active member of Randwick Boys’ High School P&C, despite her children finishing school two years ago.
GCT recently had the opportunity to speak to Alexandra about the upcoming council elections and her vision for the Randwick West Ward.
When did you decide to pursue a path in politics?
I have always been politically active. I have been a member of the Labor party for 25 years and I have come from a family that was always involved with politics. My father, John Procopiadis was a councillor on Randwick Council for 18 years, and was also the Mayor. In 2000, I ran alongside my father as the number two candidate for Labor in West Ward.
Why would you make a good councillor?
Coming from a politically active family, I know what it takes to be a good councillor. I am passionate about the area I live in, having lived here for over 50 years. I understand the issues facing the community and I am committed to dealing with the issues and achieving positive outcomes. I will listen, take on people’s concerns and be their voice in the community.
What are some of the issues in your ward?
The biggest issues West Ward face are overdevelopment, the pressure on our green spaces, and the continuing debacle of the Light Rail and the traffic congestion it is bringing. Overdevelopment is a big concern in our area, with plans for many more high-rise buildings to be built. I will stand up and protect our area from overdevelopment that will put additional pressure on local schools and increase traffic congestion in the area.
I will preserve our green spaces by fighting any additional tree clearing, maintaining our beautiful parks, and improving sporting facilities.
I will by demanding light rail accountability by standing up for local businesses who are doing it tough while the construction of the light rail is in progress, as well as standing up for residents and commuters devastated by the mismanagement of the project. We now know that a lot of money has been spent on the Light rail, which will open at capacity and therefore won’t cope with the current plans for more development in our area.
Has your Greek background helped/influenced you?
Coming from a Greek background has given me a greater support network. I have had the opportunity to speak on Greek radio channels and be showcased in various news outlets. It is wonderful to receive such support from the Greek community.
You said earlier that your father, John Procopiadis was a councillor on Randwick Council for 18 years, and was also the Mayor, so helping the community must be in your family blood?
Yes! My father has always volunteered and helped others less fortunate in the community. My father both when he was in council and before and after that did a lot for the Greek community through humanitarian and social causes. The Springtime Greek Glendi held at Kensington Oval was an initiative of his, bringing together the Greek community to raise money for various charities. I have had great role models who led the way and have big shoes to fill.
How can the public support you?
Make sure they turn up to vote on election day, September 9, and to vote one above the line in West Ward for the Labor team (Group E). Spread the news to family and friends in the area as well. If anyone has free time on election day to hand out “how to vote” cards, please feel free to get in touch with the team on Facebook.
Alexandra Luxford: facebook.com/Alexforwestward
