The announcement was made on his Facebook page and reads:
My Transition to the Liberal Party: Serving Pittwater's Best Interests
I am excited to announce my decision to part ways with the ‘Your Northern Beaches Independent Team’ Political Party to join the Liberal Party and serve the community and council as an endorsed Liberal Councillor. This choice comes after careful consideration and reflection, driven by my unwavering commitment to the betterment of our beloved Pittwater.
For several years, I have been deeply involved in the Northern Beaches Council community and politics, striving tirelessly to address local issues and work towards the improvement of our constituents' lives. In December 2021, I was honoured to be elected as a Councillor under the banner of the 'Your Northern Beaches Independent Team. I believed that this group shared my dedication to local issues and transparency, and together, we could make a significant impact on Pittwater and the greater Northern Beaches community.
However, as time passed, I came to realise that the promise of independent politics and the hope for a different kind of political representation were not fully realised in practice. I felt that our group lacked a clear vision, a unified team, and a cohesive direction. It became evident to me that for the betterment of Pittwater and its residents, I needed to make a change.
My decision to transition to the Liberal Party is rooted in a belief that it aligns more closely with my vision and values for our community. I see in the Liberal Party the leadership, resources, vision, and support necessary to enact positive, ongoing change for the Northern Beaches.
Unity and collaboration are key to achieving our shared goals, and I am confident that the Liberal Party offers a stronger platform for these essential principles. Joining the Liberal Party team of Councillors, I am excited about the opportunities it presents for cooperation and achieving both immediate and long-term community objectives.
I want to make it clear that my dedication to serving the interests of the Northern Beaches community remains steadfast. This transition to the Liberal Party is not a departure from my commitment to local issues; rather, it is an enhancement of my ability to make a lasting impact on behalf of the constituents of Pittwater and the greater Local Government Area.
I am grateful for the warm welcome I have received from the Liberal Party and look forward to working hand in hand with them to bring about positive change for Pittwater and the Northern Beaches. Together, we can continue to address the pressing concerns of our community, ensuring a brighter future for all residents.
In closing, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the constituents of Pittwater for their ongoing support and trust. Rest assured that my commitment to serving you remains unwavering, and I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as we embark on this new journey together.
Michael Gencher
Rory Amon, MP for Pittwater and former Northern Beaches Council Liberal Councillor stated:
''It was a privilege to serve with Councillor Gencher as Councillors for Pittwater Ward from 2021-23, and it continues to be a privilege to serve alongside him now as the Member for Pittwater.
In a short period of time, Michael has gone from being a colleague to a friend.
Michael’s dedication to our community is immense, his integrity unimpeachable, his passion is clear, and his ability is second to none.
I look forward continuing to work with Michael following his recent decision to join the Liberal Party. I know he will continue to serve Pittwater with distinction.''
Mr. Gencher was elected to the Northern Beaches Council in the 2021 Council Elections.
Mr. Gencher is actively involved as a long service member of Surf Life Saving. He regularly patrols Mona Vale Beach and is currently a Vice President and the Nipper Chairman of Mona Vale Surf Life Saving Club. Michael is also active in the community through sport, education and charitable organisations, he is one of the founders of the Mentors Network and the Guard for Life program, and is the Program Coordinator for Neighbourhood Watch in Pittwater, and a member of Rotary Club of the Upper Northern Beaches.
To maintain work-life harmony, Michael enjoys downtime with the arts, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, surfing, and most importantly spending time with his wife and 5 children.
Michael is motivated by the importance and values of community, and the belief that safe, vibrant and inclusive communities are the bedrock for a confident and flourishing society.
Originally from Canada, Michael settled in Australia in the early 1990s. He is a Public Affairs, Public Relations and Communications professional, who set up his own business 20 years ago.
The next Council elections will take place later this year.
The NSW Electoral Commission will be conducting the elections for 126 councils on Saturday, 14 September 2024 for the election of Councillors. Some councils will also be holding mayoral elections, constitutional referendums and/or polls.