Zali Steggall’s call to arms at Manly Novotel launch party
Zali Steggall issued a call to arms as she kickstarted her campaign to defeat Tony Abbott in front of distinguished guests at a glitzy launch party.
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Zali Steggall issued a call to arms as she kickstarted her campaign to defeat Tony Abbott in front of distinguished guests at a glitzy launch party.
The Independent candidate for Warringah was joined by Booker Prize winning author Thomas Keneally, former Ironman champion Guy Leech and TV presenter James Mathison.
She also rubbed shoulders with political figures including Northern Beaches Mayor Michael Reagan and former Manly State MPs Peter Macdonald and David Barr at her campaign launch event at Manly Novotel on Saturday night.
“We need all of you,” she said to her supporters who were gathered in the hotel’s Ball Room.
“We will all need to give 110 per cent to get this over the line, we will all be pushed out of our comfort zones at times, but it is worth it.”
In a wide-ranging speech she gave an indication of what kind of MP she would be if elected.
“I know that together, we can demand action on climate change, champion sensible economic policies, protect our environment and help our more vulnerable,” she said.
“We need a business friendly economy that works for us. We need to put new energy into our economy and not divisive policies that pick on people’s retirement and investments.
“We need to treat everyone with respect, with strong border policies that also treat refugees and children with compassion.”
She said more must be done to protect and help small businesses thrive.
“Since when was the Australian dream only for big business? Warringah’s small businesses are the backbone of our community and deserve better.
“They need stability and someone who listens to their needs, and who works in their interests.”
She also restated her support for the Beaches Link tunnel and said she would work to create a tunnel that is “fit for the future” and does not “put children’s health at risk.”
Concluding her speech she addressed her volunteers: “So, Independents of Warringah, we can do this.
“We are strong and passionate, determined and resourceful, no goal or task is too big.
“When it comes time to vote in a few weeks time, remember that we are voting for our future and the next generation, so what are we waiting for?”
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