The NT Independent is providing you with a light-hearted look at the candidates for the August 22 NT general election. We’re not looking at policy or platforms at this time, but rather at the person behind them.

Our Q&A should help you get to know the humans of NT politics.

Today’s profile is Territory Alliance candidate for Braitling, Dale McIver.

As a born and raised Alice Springs local for 43 years, and a super proud Territorian, this place is in Dale’s heart. She even reckons the red dirt runs through her veins.

Dale has a genuine connection to Alice and the Territory. She completed her schooling in Alice Springs attending Ross Park Primary School and St Philip’s College.

Dale has been heavily involved in the tourism industry for over 20 years. She has been the chair of Tourism Central Australia for the past five years and was also a member of the Tourism NT Board for two-and-a-half years, ensuring a local grass roots voice was heard.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received and who did it come from?

A saying I have stuck up in my office says, “Laugh often, apologise when you should, let go of what you can’t change, play hard, forgive quickly, take chances, give your all and have NO regrets.”

I’m not sure where this came from originally but it’s a phrase that I can use daily to remind myself how fortunate I have been and to keep working hard every day.

Tell us something interesting or quirky about yourself.

As a kid growing up in Alice Springs I had the best of both worlds. Living in town and going to school. But on long weekends and school holidays I spent most of my time out bush at Tanami Downs Station living the great life as a bush kid, learning to drive, ride horses and learning to connect with the country listening to stories from the Aboriginal stockmen.

How would your best mate describe you in twenty words or less?

One tough cookie, with a heart of gold who is a truly genuine chick. She is an inspiration to many in the community.

If you were stranded on a desert island and could bring one movie, one album and one book, what would they be?

Movie: The Castle directed by Rob Stitch. It’s an awesome Aussie classic!

Album: Lioness by Beccy Cole.

Book: Never tell me Never, Janine Shepard’s autobiography.

If you could have dinner with any person in history, who would it be and why?

Princess Diana. I reckon with everything she went through, she would have some wonderful advice to pass on.

A couple of really quick questions. You can give one-word answers if you wish.

Tea or coffee?

Coffee!

Folder or scruncher? 

Scruncher.

AFL or NRL?

Oohh… tough one… Bombers and Broncos!

Wet season or dry season?

A beautiful autumn in Central Australia.

Coles or Woolies?

Woolies.