Council election 2020: Southport councillor Dawn Crichlow endorses successor

Retiring Southport councillor Dawn Crichlow has finally named her preferred successor as she leaves office after nearly 30 years.

RETIRING Southport councillor Dawn Crichlow has finally named her preferred successor – council staffer Shaelee Welchman.

The long-serving councillor, who will step down in March after 29 years in office, has thrown her support behind Ms Welchman after a charm offensive by other candidates keen to gain her endorsement.

Retiring councillor Dawn Crichlow. Picture: Jason O'Brien

“I have worked with her since we started the CBD office and prior to that on the Broadwater Parklands,” Cr Crichlow told the Bulletin.

“She has been fantastic with the people of Southport, the area she has decided to stand.

“I think she is a good asset – she knows the area and has worked for council over a 20-year period.

“She will make a good representative.”

Shaelee Welchman and councillor Dawn Crichlow.

Ms Welchman announced her candidacy for Division 6 in December and has been actively campaigning in the area.

She welcomed Cr Crichlow’s endorsement.

“I’ve been incredibly privileged and excited to receive Cr Crichlow’s support so far,” Ms Welshman said.

CANDIDATE’S PLAN FOR SOUTHPORT

Division 6 candidate Shaelee Welchman.

“We have worked closely together for many years to deliver her priorities such as light rail, the Broadwater Parklands and CBD renewal.

“It has given me the experience to believe I’ll be able to carry on her agenda from day one.

“Dawn is a true Gold Coast legend and it’s a high honour to have her in my corner.”

Other candidates hoping to win Division 6 are Brooke Patterson, Michael Pulford and Susie Gallagher, all of whom unsuccessfully contested seats in 2016.