Noosa Council 2024 local government election, meet the candidates

The Noosa Council 2024 election candidates have given their final pitches as to why residents should vote for them. Read them here.

Noosa Council candidates.

The Noosa Council election race is heating up, with all candidates in campaign mode as pre-poll voting begins this week from March 4.

The Sunshine Coast Daily asked all councillor candidates to enter an 80-word submission on why residents should vote for them.

Below, in no particular order, are their responses with some edited.

Cr Brian Stockwell

I bring my track record as the shire’s most experienced councillor, plus decades as a professional town planner and environmental manager.

I have a passion to work with the community to achieve a better future.

My dedication to the shire and long-term community service equips me with the local knowledge and the skills to further protect our environment, community values and lifestyle.

I ask for your support to give the community a strong, experienced voice on our council.

Cr Brian Stockwell.

Nicola Wilson

I’m running because I have the skills and experience the community has been asking for – financial literacy, business experience, the ability to listen to the community and work effectively with others.

Using my financial analysis skills, I’ll make sure ratepayers money is being used for the whole community, with a responsible budget focused on the basics – roads, bridges, traffic management, parking, waste and protecting our environment.

I get the job done and I tell it like it is.

Nicola Wilson.

Chris Darwen

As a dedicated advocate for the Noosa shire, my vision encompasses environmental stewardship, community cohesion and economic prosperity.

I believe I possess the knowledge and experience to make clear decisions for the best interests of the shire.

Council is about collaboration and balance.

If you want change here’s your chance Noosa.

Elect me as one of your councillors.

Let’s forge a vibrant future for our community, one where every voice is heard and progress is shared.

Chris Darwen.

Cr Joe Jurisevic

I am standing once again to continue my proud record of advocating for better services, improved community facilities and to protect our environment.

For many years before being elected and as a Noosa Councillor for over 10 years I’ve focused on delivering outcomes for this community.

I operated two successful local small businesses and was involved with community groups through sport, environment, arts and education.

For eight years I was the Noosa Local Disaster Management Group deputy chairman and chairman.

Experience Counts. Recycle your councillor!

Cr Joe Jurisevic

Cr Tom Wegener

I came to Noosa in 1998 with a surf film, Siestas and Olas, and fell in love with my future wife and Noosa.

We started a family and a surfboard business.

Noosa has been very good to me.

Along my journey, I practised law in Los Angeles and earned a PhD in the Sustainability of Small Manufacturing in Australia at Uni SC.

During my first term I supported the environment and local businesses.

Michelle Ngatai-Stokes

In the past four years I have witnessed more devastating effects of environmental destruction in our shire than in my 40 years living here.

It is time to take action to prevent the same mistakes from happening in the future.

By keeping our council local, we can reduce conflicts of interest and ensure decisions are made to protect, preserve and maintain Noosa’s unique natural environment.

Vote wisely to ensure we leave a legacy to be proud of, for future generations to thrive.

Noosa candidate Michelle Ngatai-Stokes.

Leigh McCready

If elected I will fight to stop development in national parks; bring back kerbside rubbish collection; address traffic and parking issues in Noosa; boost the council team tasked with short-term accommodation compliance; advocate to access the $148 million in the Queensland government Building Boating Infrastructure Fund to upgrade boat ramps on Noosa River.

This fund has not been accessed for Noosa Council for almost 30 years. Get council back to basics!

Leigh McCready

Mat Bankes

In the midst of a contentious election, where accusations and divisive tactics abound, emerges a candidate of distinction.

This individual rises above the fray, poised to distinguish between mere contenders and true leaders.

With a commitment to reforming and revitalising the council, this candidate embodies strength and capability.

They pledge to take charge from within, bringing order and excellence to the very core of the council.

Can you guess who that candidate is? For change, growth, and unity - Vote Mat Bankes.

Candidate Mat Bankes. Picture: Supplied

Cr Amelia Lorentson

I’m seeking re-election because I’m passionate about the work and believe in maintaining the momentum that I have built with my community.

There are ongoing projects and initiatives that I’m committed to seeing through to completion.

Continuity in leadership is important for effective governance and I aim to provide stability and representation for our community’s interests.

My dedication to serving and delivering results drives my decision to run again.

Amelia Lorentson