Ben Whiting, a fourth-term councillor, was raised in the Green Hills area of Maitland before working abroad. He later returned with his wife to raise their two daughters.

Ben is a special needs teacher and is actively engaged in his local parish. He serves on the Maitland Park Recreation Board and takes pride in the park’s development, calling it 'the city's jewel.'

He plays hockey with the Maitland Rams and is involved with the Bruce Street Community Hall.

‘I want to make sure Maitland gets its fair share, especially regarding infrastructure. I don't want it to become just a commuter suburb of somewhere else.’

‘Maitland has a longstanding history as a key city in New South Wales, and it’s vital to maintain our identity and provide access to local facilities.’

Ben enjoys Maitland's rural features, preserved by the floodplains, and appreciates its ‘perfect size' - large enough to offer a variety of amenities while still fostering community connections.