I'm Peter Varricchio. I've lived in Toorak Gardens since 2013 and run my own practice for twenty-five years. I'm standing for Burnside Council because sitting on the sidelines isn't enough any more.
"I listen, then I find practical solutions."
What I'd push forTell me what's slipping
Every figure here comes from the council's own budget papers. If I can't source it, I don't say it.
Council adopted rate rises of 9.8% in 2024-25 and 6.95% in 2025-26, and has set 5.69% for 2026-27. Everyone at home is cutting back. Council should be held to the same standard. I balance a budget every month, and I'll bring that to the chamber.
Verges, footpaths, litter. Residents tell me the basics are slipping while the chamber argues with itself. Done properly, before anything else.
That's what council spends to run each year. Your rates should pay for the core, with extras opt-in. Share the back office with neighbouring councils. Cap consultants, and justify every outside spend in writing.
The Burnside Hospital redevelopment and the ACH proposal: most ratepayers heard about both after the fact. Big decisions should reach you before the vote, in plain English.
"Sitting on the sidelines isn't enough any more."
PETER VARRICCHIO
Grew up in Rostrevor. Toorak Gardens since 2013. A podiatrist for twenty-five years, running my own practice with six staff, so I know what a budget looks like when it's your name on it.
I referee for Football SA, handicap for the Norwood Cycling Club, and serve as President of the Liberal Party's Sturt branch: bringing people together to get outcomes and turn ideas into policy.
I call a spade a spade and I play the ball, not the man. If you want to talk, I'm always up for a coffee.
One line is enough. A footpath, a verge, a bill, a decision you heard about too late. I read every one and I reply.
Most weeks I'm on foot in the ward. Say hello.
Rose Park. The median strip where this started.
Stirling Street side.
Toorak Gardens.