John Barounis to run for seat of Maryborough for LNP

A mental health advocate and businessman who lost his son in tragic circumstances has been revealed as the Liberal National Party’s selection to take on Labor incumbent Bruce Saunders at the 2024 state election.

Passionate mental health advocate and small business owner John Barounis has been selected as the LNP candidate for Maryborough for the 2024 state election. He is pictured with deputy leader of the opposition Jarrod Bleijie.

A respected businessman and father who lost his beloved son to suicide in 2018 will stand for election against Maryborough Labor MP Bruce Saunders at the next state election.

Passionate mental health advocate and small business owner John Barounis, has been selected as the LNP candidate for Maryborough for the 2024 state election. Though no date has been set yet, the state election is scheduled to be held on October 26, 2024.

The former owner of the Mineral Sands Motel, Mr Barounis and his wife Tricia have called Maryborough home since 2014.

Mr Barounis, 52, is a former owner and manager of Mineral Sands Motel, a member of the local Men’s Shed, MADCOTA, U3A Maryborough and local Park Run.

Passionate mental health advocate and small business owner John Barounis, has been selected as the LNP candidate for Maryborough for the 2024 state election.

“Youth crime is a major issue here in Maryborough,” Mr Barounis said.

“We also need to see better investment in local health services, and we need real action to address the cost-of-living crisis.”

Mr Barounis is the father of daughter Zoe and son Yannis, who tragically died in 2018.

Since Yannis’ death, Mr Barounis and his family have become passionate advocates for mental health awareness.

“We understand mental health is a big issue, particularly for young people,” he said.

“This is an issue very close to our hearts and part of the reason why I’ve decided to put my hand up and stand up for our local community.

“We need greater training and awareness for people to see the signs of those who may be struggling with their mental health and offer greater support for those who need it.”

Tricia and John Barounis, parents of Maryborough teen Yannis Barounis, have backed the announcement of a Headspace centre for Maryborough. Tragically, Yannis took his own life in 2018.

In 2019, the Barounis family launched a website called www.letitoutnow.com.au and an app called LetItOutNow.com.au to help teens express their emotions and get support.

LNP Leader David Crisafulli said Mr Barounis would pour his heart and soul into the fight for Maryborough.

“John is unashamedly passionate about Maryborough and the people who live here,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“He brings an energy and enthusiasm that is infectious but despite all of that, he is compassionate too and cares deeply for others.

“I know John won’t rest while his community faces crumbling health services, spiralling youth crime and a cost-of-living crisis for which the Palaszczuk Government has no answers.

“I have always said we are the underdog at the next election, so we need to work harder for longer to earn Queenslanders’ trust and prove we are ready to govern.”