Who Are We?

Your Northern Beaches Independent Team (YNBIT) — now often called Your Northern Beaches — is a local political group rooted in community-focused independent representation across the Northern Beaches Council area in NSW, Australia

Origins and Foundation

Your Warringah roots (2008–2016): Mayor Michael Regan launched Wake Up Warringah in 2008, later rebranded as Your Warringah, which formed a local independent hub. Regan served as mayor and WUW/YWP councillors held multiple seats by 2012.
Transition to YNBIT (2017): After local council mergers (Warringah + Pittwater + Manly) in 2016, Regan established Your Northern Beaches Independent Team on 20 January 2017 as the successor.

Electoral Performance

2017 council elections: The team captured 6 of 15 seats, giving them the largest single grouping. Regan became the first mayor of the newly formed Northern Beaches Council
2021–2023: YNBIT retained its 6 seats in the 2021 election.
2023–2024 Leadership change: Regan successfully ran for NSW Parliament (Wakehurst seat) in 2023, prompting Sue Heins (Curl Curl Ward) to succeed him as mayor and party leader on 16 May 2023.
2024 concil elections: The team captured 7 of 15 seats, giving them a plurality. Sue Heins returned as mayor and party leader.

Mission and Principles

YNBIT is guided by strong community and environmental values:

Independent, party‑free local governance
Transparent, accountable decision‑making
Protection of beaches, bushland, and biodiversity
Infrastructure upkeep, waste reduction, and energy solutions
Support for local businesses, small voices, and youth

Their constitution formalises these aims, ensuring members may vote freely without party discipline ().

Leadership & Councillors

Sue Heins, Mayor & team leader (since May 2023)
Deputy (2024-2025) Mayor Ruth Robins (Narrabeen)
Councillors: Sarah Grattan (Manly), Rowie Dillon (Pittwater), Joeline Hackman (Curl Curl), Jody Williams (Curl Curl), Nicholas Beaugeard (Curl Curl)

WHY IT MATTERS?

YNBIT has become a prominent local force, offering residents an alternative to traditional party-aligned politics.