‘Working hard’: Fraser Coast councillors speak out about new team

The Fraser Coast’s new councillors have revealed how the new team is taking shape and priorities going forward as city-changing decisions loom in coming months, including whether to approve a 21-storey high rise at Torquay.

Councillors from the Fraser Coast Regional Council have shared what their initial weeks have been like in their new roles.

After a month in office, Fraser Coast councillors are sharing their thoughts about their roles and priorities for the region.

The first ordinary council meeting was held on Wednesday.

But while the first meeting was straightforward, the new council will be asked to make a game changing decision for future of Hervey Bay at its meeting in coming months when they decide whether to approve a 21 storey high rise on the Esplanade at Torquay

The proposed $445 million five-star Sheraton resort in Hervey Bay will include Australia’s deepest themed dive and snorkelling facility if it is approved by the Fraser Coast council, with plans to create a natural oasis as the hotel’s centrepiece.

New Division 9 Councillor Sara Faraj said her priorities were to learn the operations and processes of the council and how she could best represent the community.

“Council is settling in incredibly well and working hard as a team and I am grateful for the support I have received from my colleagues during this initial induction process,” she said.

“I am loving the new role, and I am extremely grateful for the voters of Division 9 for putting their faith in me to represent them and I will continue to work hard for our beloved community over the next four years.

Councillors Sara Faraj and Denis Chapman at the Hervey Bay Anzac Day service.

“I am dedicated towards establishing a Strategic Plan to retain Youth and Young Families in the region in the near future, as well as working hard on the upcoming Planning Scheme Review to ensure the right developments are being attracted to our region.

“Our region is rapidly growing, far beyond expectation and projection, and it is imperative to plan ahead for this growth wisely, and in conjunction with other levels of government.

“The Fraser Coast is in an era of great change and revitalisation, and I look forward to contributing on behalf of the community, towards this transformative period.”

Deputy Mayor Paul Truscott said it had been a great start for the new council.

“I am really happy to share that the integration of new councillors with returning councillors has been remarkably smooth and quite encouraging,” he said.

“I believe we have a really cohesive council and it’s been great to hear the input from everyone.

“This has truly been a great start and sets a positive tone for the 2024-28 term and highlights the promising potential we have as a unified council.

“We have completed the training process and are now getting deep into budget discussions which can be quite challenging, but we want to invest time and consideration into so many different aspects and work to maintain council’s sound financial position.

“I am confident in our collective capability to navigate these challenges.

“Our priority remains making decisions that serve the best interests of the entire Fraser Coast region.

The newly elected Fraser Coast Regional Council.

“Getting to know the new councillors has been a rewarding experience.

“Each brings unique perspectives and enthusiasm to their roles, contributing significantly to our shared vision for the community. I am excited and optimistic about what we can achieve together for the betterment of our region.”

New Division 6 Councillor Lachlan Cosgrove said the new council was working well together.

“As a new Councillor, I have appreciated the help and support I have received from returning Councillors in adjusting to the role,” he said.

“My priorities remain the same as they were during the election.

“Things like making better development guidelines that factor in green space and wildlife corridors, improving community safety, and seeing the Mary to Bay Rail Trail through to completion.

Division 2 Councillor Phil Truscott.

“It’s also imperative that council maintains sound financial management in order to maintain a level of service that meets community expectations.

“I am keenly participating in our ongoing budget discussions.

“I was pleased to be nominated for the Mary to Bay Rail Trail Advisory Committee as well as the Fraser Coast Events Advisory Committee and look forward to making positive contributions as part of these bodies.”

Division 1 Councillor Michelle Byrne said the last four weeks had “been great”.

“It has been a big learning curve, but it has been fascinating to gain a better insight into the business of the Fraser Coast Regional Council,” she said.

“We are all looking forward to getting on with making the Fraser Coast region the very best it can be.

“The group is a diverse representation of the whole community.

“The returning councillors, chief executive and directors are a good mix of experience and new ideas.

“Our personalities are gelling well and there is some great outlooks for the future.

“Everyone is welcoming and insightful, with sharing their perspectives and knowledge.

“The Fraser Coast is booming and it’s great to be a part of shaping the future of this beautiful region for the generations ahead.”

Division 7 Councillor John Weiland said the new council was working well together.

“The new council has been working very collaboratively, which is vital, considering the scope of some of our agenda items in the near future,” he said.

“The role doesn’t pause while new councillors find their feet, so we have very much hit the ground running.

“My priority has been to be engaged, attentive and be accountable for all aspects of my role from day one.

“I can confidently say that we are all looking forward to meeting challenges head on and to work hard for our community.”

Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Daniel Sanderson.

Division 8 Councillor Denis Chapman said the returning council members were helping the new councillors settle in.

“The new council members from my opinion are all working well together and with the re-elected,” he said.

“The older members are supporting the new councillors with the steep learning curve with the induction period.

“It is great to see the enthusiasm toward major issues of the day-to-day decision from all councillors.

“This term I have been nominated to the transport and traffic committees that I have had a great interest in.

“This region is seeing record growth with development as what has been seen across Queensland.

“I am looking forward in serving this region for the next four years.”

Division 4 Councillor Daniel Sanderson agreed.

“I think the new council is working well together,” he said.

“There has been a lot to learn in a short time frame so a focus for everyone has been to ensure they’re well equipped for the journey and road ahead.

“Personally, my priorities have been to ensure the ship continues to sail smoothly and help fellow colleagues where able to better navigate what’s to come.

“As things start to settle soon, my daily focus is on representing the community to the best of my ability and ensuring our region’s strong and prosperous future.”

Fraser Coast Division 2 councillor Phil Truscott was positive about the new council.

“Of course it’s only early days, and the previous council had some very good minds and personalities, but my personal opinion on this new council is that it will be one of the best mix of personalities, talents experience and decision makers we have experienced in a long time,” he said.

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