“I believe the council has lost the trust of the people of Southport”

Council has failed Southport by not fixing the problem of the CBD’S homeless, a candidate warns. Here’s what she’d do if elected.

THE council has failed Southport by not fixing the problem of the CBD’S homeless, warns a candidate.

Susie Gallagher, a Division 6 candidate, who lived above the Cecil Hotel in Nerang Street for most of her childhood and attended the Star of the Sea school, fears the future of her home.

A mattress in the Broadwater Parklands on the Gold Coast where homeless teenagers are sleeping.

“My family has been part of the fabric of Southport for almost 50 years and it is so sad to

see its demise over the past 20 years and the increase of homelessness in the area that is

causing distress to residents and businesses,” she said.

“The homeless people congregate here because the suburb is quieter than other areas but they can also access government and community services.”

Ms Gallager, said she would, if elected tomorrow, work with all three tiers of government to pool financial and intellectual resources to find short and long-term solutions to the problem.

Five candidates are standing in Southport for the seat vacated by retiring councillor Dawn Crichlow.

“I believe the Council has lost the trust of the people, especially the residents and businesses in Southport, as they haven’t been delivering a diversity of experiences that not only lead to greater visitor numbers but also result in increased business,” she said.

Division 6 candidate Susie Gallagher. Picture: Jerad Williams.

“Working within council plans and budgets, of course everyday issues like roads, sewerage

and rubbish will be high on my agenda, but my focus will also be on the big issues such as

saying no to a cruise ship terminal and second casino.”

Ms Gallagher plans to revitalise Southport are a Business and Trade Expo, which will be

designed to showcase the retail and industry and attract new companies to the area.

“The Broadwater Parklands are also under-utilised and I plan to bring more events to the

area, such as Opera or Shakespeare in the Park to the area, which will bring more people

around local businesses,” she said.

“There needs to be a massive change in Southport, and as a true local with 25 years

business and leadership experience, I can be the one to make big changes.”