The following is the pre-election statement from Richard in 2002:

My name is Richard Dimech. I live in Mill Park, Victoria, Australia. I was President of Vegetarian Network Victoria from our beginning in May 1998 until November 2000. I previously was Secretary of the Australian Vegetarian Society (Victoria) for from December 1997 to May 1998. I have been a vegetarian for three years. I have been married for 7 years, have no children and am 31 years old. Along with our small yet consistent committee, we have grown our association from zero membership to over 100 members currently. We organise information stalls and monthly social dinners. We have run a number of vegetarian catering stalls for environmental rallies and animal walks. My wish is to become more involved with the International Vegetarian Union in helping to spread the vegetarian message throughout Australia. With thanks to Robert Fraser we should also be in a great position to win the WVC2004 bid.

Melbourne, Australia