Fraser Coast council candidates reveal their top five issues
The men and women who want to make up the next Fraser Coast council have revealed what they think are the biggest issues facing Maryborough and Hervey Bay, and what they want to do about them if elected. You might be surprised:
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As voters prepare to head to the polls on March 16, the 26 candidates running for mayor or a division of the Fraser Coast Regional Council have been invited to outline what their top five priorities will be if elected.
Last week we profiled each of the candidates, and now we reveal the issues most important to them.
George Seymour mayoral candidate
1. Planning – we need to make sure we are planning for the future, while retaining what is special about our region.
One of the first big decisions of the new council will be the new planning scheme and I want to make sure it helps to create better neighbourhoods as we develop and that we get good environmental outcomes.
2. Infrastructure – going forward, the council will need to invest in new infrastructure to make sure we are meeting the needs of the community with roads, footpaths, water, sewerage, drainage, parks, and other essential infrastructure.
3. Local economy – we have seen the local unemployment rate drop significantly during the current council term.
It is important that we work with the business community to make sure the policy settings are right to help local businesses prosper and continue to employ locals.
We have a range of new industries setting up on the Fraser Coast and we need to continue to work to attract new businesses that will diversify the economy.
4. Support for community groups – community groups across the region play a vitally important role in bringing people together, holding events, organising activities, and helping residents in different ways.
Council can support them in different ways and I believe we need to increase this through the grants, training, and facilities we provide.
5. Council stability – we need a stable team that is focused on the community, not itself.
As mayor I have worked with all the councillors to make sure they bring important issues to the table.
If re-elected I will be working with the new council to make sure they bring their enthusiasm to the table through a councillor portfolio system.
Division 1 candidates Fraser Coast council
James Hansen
1. Prioritise the spending of public money, i.e. essential infrastructure, not pie in the sky projects.
2. Keeping rates increases to CPI.
3. Burrum River bridge replacement.
4. To continue working with all the community groups to help them achieve their goals.
5. To continue to be the commonsense voice for the people I represent and work for.
Michelle Byrne
1. Rates moneys need to be fiscally and responsibly used to benefit the whole of the Fraser Coast. Our rural areas need to have their services prioritised just as much as the densely populated areas.
2. Communication. With over 40 years in local community organisations and service industries, I have found that communication is key.
Residents have many questions and queries.
Transparent and open conversations to keep residents informed of council decision and outcomes is a must.
3. Development. The coming years will see our Region grow at unprecedented rates.
We need to encourage respectful and thoughtful development.
The future of our community relies on planning and consultation that benefits residents, business, and manufacturing.
We can prosper with the right leadership and strong direction.
4. Footpaths, roads and drainage are to be taken to the satellite communities.
With thoughts towards connectivity for all abilities.
Bike paths and mobility access are paramount for keeping our residents involved in all aspects of community.
Division 1 has many dirt roads that need constant attention.
5. My highest priority is to be honest, ethical, contactable, and visible, with dedication to my role.
Our community deserves to have a representative that is approachable and dependable.
Division 2 candidate Fraser Coast council
Phil Truscott
1. Maryborough Administration Centre and Library upgrades: I am committed to modernising our Maryborough administration centre and library facilities.
These upgrades will not only enhance our civic amenities but also create spaces for learning, innovation, and community engagement.
2. Maryborough to Bay Rail Trail Completion: Connecting Maryborough to the Bay through the rail trail is a priority project for me.
This initiative will not only provide recreational opportunities but also stimulate economic growth by attracting visitors.
3. Tinana Sports Facilities Upgrade: Investing in our sports facilities in Tinana is important for promoting an active and healthy lifestyle.
4. Tiaro Upgrade: Supporting the annual events that showcase in Tiaro and improving infrastructure in readiness for the Bypass
5. Bauple Business Plan: Supporting the upcoming local entrepreneurship and economic growth in Bauple.
Promoting the museum to a wider audience
6. Glenwood Master Plan: Sustainable growth is at the heart of our planning for Glenwood.
We need to secure funding and then ensure the plan is activated to achieve positive outcomes for Glenwood.
Beyond these projects, I want to emphasise the importance of leadership grounded in values and community connection.
I believe I provide this leadership and direction for Division 2.
Together, let’s continue to build a better Fraser Coast, a place where opportunity thrives.
Giselle O’Keefe
1. Minimise wasteful spending - I think is it imperative to manage excessive spending to enable redirection of moneys
toward other projects within Division 2 and the Fraser Coast, particularly with the potential blowout costings that the new Hervey Bay council build will cause ratepayers.
2. Advocate for the review of the regional waste management areas.
The recent closure of the regional waste sites within Division 2 and the Fraser Coast saw a lot of residents disappointed.
The extra travel times imposed on the regional residents will contribute to the potential unwanted dumping of rubbish which will only increase the costs to council.
3. Provide road upgrade & drainage projects where prioritised and with focus for the Glenwood community. For Tinana, support the review of the Tinana Place shopping precinct entrance/exit to provide a much safer carriageway for traffic flow.
4. Support direction of Ratepayer contributions to be spent within Division 2 and advocate for rates to stay under CPI in budgetary planning to enable moneys to be spent on necessary works that have remained unaddressed for many years.
5. To retain the Maryborough water and sewerage reservoir within the precinct of Maryborough and not be redirected to Hervey Bay.
In order to address the future management of water and sewerage in Hervey Bay, it is recommended to implement
the use of water tanks in all new constructions and provide incentives for existing landowners to do the same.
Additionally, explore the possibility of collaborating with the State Government and Fraser Island land owners to use the island’s freshwater catchment for the benefit of Hervey Bay.
Division 3 Fraser Coast council candidates
Paul Truscott
I imagine most people will say there’s specific projects they want to see completed, which I do too, such as the Maryborough Library upgrade and administration centre, and the rail trail, and lighting around Anzac Park.
But what I’d also like to say is that having projects we are working on is great, but what I also think is important is who the councillor is.
Because if you know who they are and what they stand for, then you know they’ll make good decisions.
Here’s some qualities that I think make a good Councillor.
1. Provide good and regular communication with the public and actively seek community views on matters.
2. Be easily contactable and approachable.
3. Be able to read and understand relevant legislation and council agendas.
4. Be good at relationship building and collaborating with councillor colleagues and council staff.
5. Vote with integrity on what they feel the right decision is, even when it may not seem like a popular decision to the community.
Division 4 Fraser Coast council candidate
Daniel Sanderson
1. Maryborough CBD revitalisation continuation (including the activation of city buildings, creative use of public spaces, new city green space area activation, the Maryborough administration and library progression).
It will help our city centre reach its full potential which benefits the whole region.
2. Lighting around Maryborough’s Anzac Park
Why I think this are important? This encourages night-time use of the walking facility with safety and encourages healthier lifestyles for all.
3. Continue with positive infrastructure investment (kerb and channel upgrades, footpath creation, roads). Also, coastal erosion measures put in place where able across coastal townships.
People expect good services where they reside and services they can use or see as they help pay for.
4. More events across Maryborough and wider Fraser Coast (dinners, festivals, parties, markets).
Events encourage activation on a larger scale including the establishment of new businesses, utilisation of spaces that haven’t been used before, new cultures emerging and more.
5. Coastal townships projects occurring including Poona Boat ramp upgrade, a new stage of Tinnanbar Road occur, new toilet built in Boonooroo and more).
These objectives and others are important for the local community and its people.
Daniel Beattie
1. Maryborough CBD buildings. I would like to see council work with owners and minimise the red tape so they can transform them into quality apartments if they wish for workers and professionals so the CBD can grow, which then will grow restaurants shops pubs.
It needs to be a village.
We’re locals are supporting locals and with the influx of southerners the thought of living in a beautiful old building has the appeal but maybe out of reach in a capital city but in Maryborough is doable, just like my partner and I have done ourselves.
2. Our coastal towns. I believe coastal town need attention just like the bigger town. The foreshore issues that seem to dominate the topics as well as the Poona boat ramp that could do with a floating pontoon just like Maaroom and Tuan.
Sometimes it’s the little things that go a long way.
3. Rates. I believe we all pay enough in rates including myself the last thing I want is for them to go up but to achieve that we need to make sure whatever we spend the money on it passes the pub test and is much better value for money.
Common sense must prevail the new office building in the Bay.
I feel that the money could have been better spent and spread a lot further on other projects.
Division 5 Fraser Coast council candidates
Michelle Govers
1. The development of a car park in Augustus Estate to ensure erosion doesn’t continue from cars being parked on the grassed area and to assist non-ambient dog owners’ access to the dog park itself.
2. More resources for mowing and gardening and a published schedule ahead of time so community is aware of where mowing is happening with better maintenance of facilities for community usage.
3. The development of a business economic development team to have a one stop department to assist businesses.
4. Ensuring that we have good housing diversity to attract the demographic we need for better economic growth.
5. Clarity on our master town planning model and consistency in community engagement efforts with a clear understanding of council’s corporate plan.
Oscar Suarez
Traditionally the main focus of regional councils were rates, rubbish and roads but as our region grows we need to shift our focus from a regional council and start thinking in bigger terms like a city council, with more projects and the area destined to grow exponentially we must prioritise other ideas and find solutions moving forward.
I will briefly touch on the three Rs as we cannot ignore them as they are very much still important council matters.
I am advocating that rates be capped for the next four years for existing ratepayers and we need to look at bringing back the early payment discount that has been a tradition across councils for as long as I remember and for some reason has ceased.
With household incomes barely changing while everything else rises costs are impacting to many residents and this also affects the community with people on edge turning to escape mechanisms that are detrimental to our community’s health and wellbeing.
More people moving to our region is putting pressure on our roads there needs to be policies in place that focus on proactive road maintenance being budgeted for, this needs to be so that we do not fall behind retroactively trying to fix all our roads at the same time.
Having proactive systems attracts competent workers that build a passion for their jobs and their region, this will be of great
benefit and will ensure a balanced work force that does not crack under pressure like the roads themselves.
We need to make sure our region is accessible to all with footpath access for all abilities that connect our community hubs in a meaningful way this is important getting people off the roads before we have a tragedy and someone’s life is
impacted because they just went to store but walked on the road because the grass was long and wet as an example I have personally seen were some young boys were nearly hit by a car in Toogoom.
So let’s get on the front foot and create a safe vibrant city that encompasses the region as a whole and not just the Bay and the ’Borough.
Rubbish we have dedicated workers doing their very best to maintain our rubbish, but I would like to see the possibility, if there is a desire in the community to look at revitalising the outer dump sites that were closed down.
I think there could be an opportunity for community groups to take up some aspect of recycling that could potentially fund the operations even if it’s just a few days a week from electronics furniture and green waste I think there is a great potential for volunteers to find purpose and communities to be able to self-fund important projects they deem important for example, showers at beach accesses and amenities were they are needed.
Division 6 Fraser Coast council candidates
Chris Pearse
1. Infrastructure - we must ensure resilience of our water supply to negate the necessity for restrictive measures and the risk of running out.
Sewerage, Roads and Footpath infrastructure must keep pace. Public transport is a priority. Numerous incidences of dangerous driving have lead to calls for traffic calming devices at hot spots.
2. Environment – the Esplanade from Pialba to the Urangan Pier is vulnerable. We want balanced, well considered revitalisation.
We want the relaxed charm of beachside Hervey Bay to stay.
Residential developments need to proceed with greater caution. I am concerned to prioritise initiatives like the Mary2Bay Rail Trail and on ensuring adequate allocation of green space and protection of flora and fauna.
3. Healthcare - a primary concern as many in the community are suffering. Access to quality hospital, specialist and general medical services, aged care, respite care and so on is inadequate. We must demand greater financial support at the state and federal level and ensure it goes where it needs to.
4. Rates - the new council will be pressed to lift rates.
Everything costs more but my hope is that many councillors will be determined to support my view, to pressure council staff back. To insist they find ways to cut costs so that rate increases are kept within CPI.
5. Business and Industry – essential to a thriving regional economy.
Our vast region encompasses many attractive locations with enormous potential business opportunities.
We have so much to offer in terms of lifestyle, we can harness that to create a welcoming environment, ideally attracting Australian based businesses and new entrepreneurial ideas based on family orientated activities.
Lachlan Cosgrove
I believe these are the top five election issues. Why? These are the issues which are raised the most with me or people are most responsive to when asked.
1. Reducing crime and increasing community safety.
2. Increasing road safety and reducing traffic congestion/bottlenecks.
3. Building height limits on the Esplanade.
4. Better development guidelines for more green space and trees in our communities.
5. Responsible expenditure of public money and keeping rate rises below CPI.
Robert Garland
1. Community safety. I will host a Community Safety Summit, to bring together key government and non-government groups to develop a community safety framework.
The summit will focus on identifying key responsibilities for local and state governments, police, schools and community groups.
A 100-day action plan will be developed to identify priorities and key actions, with the aim of improving co-ordination to reduce the risk of crime and anti-social behaviour and create a diverse, safe and harmonious community where all people feel safe.
Now is the time to act decisively and cooperatively, with a clear vision for community safety.
My plan is to build strong partnerships between council, police, government agencies, community groups and individuals to promote community safety.
We know that crime prevention is an issue facing every community and that local solutions have the greatest potential to prevent crime.
To create a safer environment for people in the Fraser Coast to work, live and travel, we need members of the community and key agencies like police and youth justice to plan and work together.”
2. Road safety and traffic management. I will act on the traffic and road safety concerns of residents living in Eli Waters and Point Vernon, and prioritise upgrades to the Division’s Road networks, if elected to council.
Garland recently met with concerned community members about bottlenecks and traffic congestion on the Hervey Bay Burrum Heads Road in Eli Waters and in Tooth and Murphy Streets in Point Vernon.
I’ve heard from residents who have expressed concerns and frustrations at the increasing rates of traffic congestion, in and out of Eli Waters and Point Vernon, as a result of unprecedented growth in the suburb.
It’s clear that with continued population growth, council will need to seriously look at its road infrastructure and plan accordingly to meet future demand.
In Queensland, councils are responsible for planning and maintaining local roads, and working closely with Transport and Main Roads to upgrade and maintain local road networks.
“I am committed to making sure that our council takes a forward approach to planning for growth and I will be a strong advocate when it comes to the state government prioritising more roads and more funding for the whole region.”
3. Addressing council blowouts - I will tackle blowouts on large projects like Hervey Bay’s new council building, by advocating for improvements to council’s procurement policy and advocating for better project planning, to ensure that projects run on time, and within budget.
If elected, I will work with council’s executive to implement measures that support project planning and best practice procurement practices.
I’ve heard what residents are saying, and I’m here to act on their concerns.
When it comes to spending people’s hard-earned dollars on council projects we need to make sure we act responsibly and in a transparent way.
4. Cemetery capacity. I will ensure that residents have the right to be buried locally, in the place they call home.
With Polson Cemetery in Point Vernon almost at capacity, no new grave plots will be available unless council acquires suitable land for a cemetery site in Hervey Bay.
In November 2023, council started the process of investigating suitable land to acquire another cemetery in Hervey Bay, but this decision could be reversed in favour a Maryborough cemetery solution. Garland has stated that he will make sure that council’s executive honour this commitment and work with the newly elected Council to achieve this outcome.
Right now, there is no certainty for the community and we need to make sure that people’s rights to be buried in Hervey Bay is protected.
My objective will be to ensure that the vision of the elected body to have a new cemetery in Hervey Bay is honoured.
There is likely to be an inexperienced council during this term, and issues such as these can be fly under the radar.
I’ll be asking the executive arm of council to present all options for sites in Hervey Bay to ensure that the community’s vision is realised.
5. Pialba precinct. As a former councillor of Fraser Coast Regional Council, I have had the privilege of working on building the vision of Hervey Bay’s central economic hub.
This vision is now coming to fruition, with construction of Council’s new Administration Centre, Library and Disaster Resilience Centre.
However, there is more work to be done.
“If elected to council, a key priority will be for council to further develop plans for the area, including an education precinct in Pialba, improvements to road and footpath infrastructure to provide greater accessibility and planning of a city centre bus interchange, which is located next to the university.”
It’s vital that the centre of Hervey Bay, the Pialba Precinct, is positive catalyst for the region’s business and community.
If elected, I want to ensure the vision of a central economic hub is fully realised. as it will future proof our region.
Kathryn Forgan-Flynn
1. Natural environments create places that build stronger wellbeing, people are happier and calmer and green spaces reduce heat and invite native animals in, creating a stronger link between nature and people.
Let’s support people in using a compost bin, people choose to reduce rate costs.
2. Maintaining our current planning limit unless it can be proved to be in the interests of the Community and supported by the community
3. Pathways to support L people moving within and around our communities to improve liveability and connection, ensure all people are supported and able to be active members of our community.
4. Kids who are active before school build better resilience and are able to assess risk in more reasoned ways.
They perform better in school, have less anxiety and stronger peer relationships.
5. Public transport options have to explored, council can be the conduit in this to support people to again connect and traverse the community to meet individual needs.
6. Water security to support our growing expansion this can include supporting people in having alternative options for garden watering, washing, toilets, council could provide incentives to support this choices of bins, their sizes based on household waste.
7. Long term proactive planning to reduce cost blow outs and have best practices models investigated and researched to consider options on Fraser Coast.
8. Playgrounds need to be natural adventure playgrounds. provide appropriate risk analysis and provide for opportunities in connection among children. Children to be engaged in the design process and youth part of the process to build connection and collaboration.
9. Culture and Arts ate the foundation to a vibrant and active community that allows us to question, to debate and to build on our understanding of each other providing a worldwide view.
10. Libraries are the heart for every age, connection, resourcing in IT, literature and community groups. Active Travel considers safety, the ability for all people to be active and support the needs of the whole community.
Alicia Ann Wade
1. Building stronger communities - my extensive experience in leadership, education, and community service uniquely positions me to lead the charge in bringing together diverse communities.
By leveraging my skills in motivating teams and setting high standards, I aim to create an inclusive and vibrant Fraser Coast where each voice is heard, valued, and contributes to our shared prosperity.
2. Keeping our community safe -having overcome personal challenges, including domestic violence, I am intimately aware of the importance of keeping our community safe.
Collaborating with non-profit organisations and leveraging my mental health advocacy, I am committed to ensuring that our region is a haven for everyone, free from harm and fear.
3. Strengthening our economy - guiding businesses strategically and managing finances, I’ll fuel local growth.
Lifelong learning ensures innovative solutions for Fraser Coast’s economic prosperity.
4. Protecting our environment - I am dedicated to preserving our region’s natural beauty. My advocacy for environmental responsibility will ensure that we continue to enjoy a sustainable, thriving environment.
As your Fraser Coast Regional Councillor (Division 6), I pledge to align my journey, values, and expertise with the corporate action plan of the Fraser Coast Regional Council.
5. Better education on escooter and road safety.
Better pathways to accommodate for bikes, escooters, mobility scooters, wheelchairs and our walkers.
I see better roads with bike lanes to allow sharing of both cars, escooter and bikes.
This will allow for better traffic flow.
Chris Mizzi
1. Better manage and maintain our assets. Better managing and maintaining our assets involves optimising resources to prolong their lifespan, minimise downtime, and maximise their value.
This includes implementing proactive maintenance schedules, sway technological solutions for asset tracking and monitoring, and adopting efficient resource allocation strategies to ensure optimal performance and longevity of our assets.
2. Better planning for the future for a regional council involves integrating sustainable development goals, conducting comprehensive risk assessments, and achieving regular community engagement.
This entails proactive infrastructure investment, embracing technological advancements, promoting environmental stewardship, and prioritising social equity to ensure resilient and inclusive growth for the region.
3. Providing better customer service entails understanding and addressing customer needs promptly, ensuring seamless communication channels, and harbouring a customer-centric culture. This involves empowering staff with comprehensive training, leveraging technology for efficient query resolution, gathering and acting on customer feedback, and continuously innovating to enhance the overall customer experience.
4. Ensuring financial sustainability for a council involves prudent budgeting, diversifying revenue streams, and optimising resource allocation. This includes fostering economic growth through strategic investments, managing debt responsibly, and prioritising long-term fiscal health. Implementing transparent financial reporting, embracing digital solutions for efficient financial management, and promoting accountability are also crucial for sustainable financial stewardship.
5. Manage crime and youth issues. The council can contribute to managing crime and youth issues by implementing community policing programs (engaging comprehensibly with Neighbourhood Watch programs), investing in after-school activities and mentorship programs for at-risk youth, collaborating with local organisations to provide resources and support for families in need, and creating job opportunities through vocational training programs. Additionally, the council can allocate funds for mental health and substance abuse treatment services to address underlying factors contributing to crime. Engaging the community through outreach and education initiatives can also help build trust and promote positive relationships between police, security companies and residents.
With 20 plus years of business experience, I have honed my financial acumen through strategic decision-making, budget management, and risk assessment.
This background positions me as a strong candidate for the position of Division 6 councillor, where my expertise can be leveraged to oversee and optimise the council’s financial resources.
My extensive experience in navigating complex business landscapes equips me with the skills needed to make sound fiscal decisions, foster economic growth, and effectively address challenges facing the community within Division 6.
Division 7 Fraser Coast council candidates
Andrew Broad
1. Keep rates fair: better financial management is needed.
Rates are not a cash cow for council to keep taking money out of people’s pockets.
2. Improved water management: with a rebuilt paradise dam, a pipeline should be built to supplement water to Burrum Weir 1, and the Lenthall Dam to Teddington Weir connector built.
This will give long term water security to Hervey Bay and Maryborough.
3. Space for us and our wildlife: improved planning to ensure public spaces and wildlife corridors form part of the future build of our towns, not just 500 square metre blocks with no where for children to explore nature.
4. Better roads and health services: refocus councils advocacy strategy using my experience to ensure our community is not overlooked.
5. More local jobs: ensure the council has an open for business attitude and work with the business community to enhance diversified employment opportunities.
6. Change the management model of Hervey Bay Airport: a special skills board with the sole shareholder being FCRC will give much better management and focus to the airport and will enhance extra flight routes and services.
Jan Hegge
1. Provide accessibility to Hervey Bay facilities by: Lobbying State Government for a public transport service for residents of River Heads, Booral and other unserviced areas of Division 7.
2. Ease housing shortages by: exploring opportunities for council to facilitate low-cost housing through disposal of surplus land and investigating reconfiguration of suitable large homes.
3. Hervey Bay Airport - Significantly improved experience for residents and visitors and ease traffic congestion by: Expansion of the departure lounge and security screening facilities, allocation of dedicated pick up /drop off zone for Uber vehicles, reintroduction of free parking for the first 30 minutes and council review into the Airport governance and more efficient management of the resource.
4. Improved safety and amenity for residents of and visitors to K’gari by: Improving roads and waste management and upgrading the public boat ramp and parking facilities at River Heads.
5. Engage with residents, businesses, and Community Associations to ensure their voices are heard in the decision-making process with council by: Continuing to network, engage and maintain two-way open communication with residents by attending community and progress association meetings to gain first-hand knowledge and understanding of issues and to provide information to residents and proactively exploring matters of concern for businesses where council has capacity to address or minimise impact by reducing bureaucratic ‘red tape’ involved in dealing with council and continuing to engage and collaborate with business and industry, attending Chamber of Commerce meetings and networking events.
John Weiland
1. Community engagement. As an elected official, being accessible to constituents is essential. It means actively listening to their concerns, engaging in dialogue, and being responsive to their needs.
By maintaining open lines of communication, elected officials can build trust, gather valuable feedback, and make informed decisions that truly represent the voices of the community.
2. Water security. Collaboration between different levels of government is crucial for ensuring water security in communities. By working together, we can share resources, expertise, and funding to develop comprehensive strategies for managing water resources effectively.
This collaboration helps address challenges, implement sustainable practices, and ensure access to clean and reliable water for everyone.
3. Sustainable community development.
Which is all about creating thriving communities while creating liveable spaces for future generations. It involves things like nature corridors, accessibility footpaths and community shared spaces.
By prioritising sustainability in future developments, we can build resilient communities that benefit everyone.
4. Tourism and small businesses. These play a vital role in communities.
Tourism brings in visitors, boosts the local economy, and creates job opportunities. Small businesses, on the other hand, add character and diversity to the community, providing unique products and services.
Together, they contribute to the growth, vibrancy, and overall well being of the community.
5. Accessibility - having accessible infrastructure, like footpaths and mobility corridors, is crucial for ensuring inclusivity within a community.
It allows people of all abilities to navigate and participate fully in society.
These infrastructure improvements promote independence, safety, and equal opportunities for everyone, creating a more inclusive and welcoming community for all.
Division 8 Fraser Coast council candidates
Denis Chapman
I have lived in the Fraser Coast all my life and have seen many changes in the past 60 years.
The five issues I would be bringing to the table is experience, stability, strong representation, planning for the future and infrastructure.
First and foremost, experience matters. Our council comprises individuals who have dedicated years to serving our community, gaining invaluable insights and understanding the intricate needs of our residents. This experience equips us to navigate complex challenges and make informed decisions that prioritise the wellbeing of every individual within our community.
Stability is the cornerstone of effective governance.
In an ever-changing world, stability fosters confidence and continuity, enabling us to implement long-term strategies that foster growth and prosperity.
By maintaining a steady course, we can weather storms and adapt to evolving circumstances while upholding our commitment to the people we serve.
Strong representation is fundamental to democracy.
Our council is dedicated to amplifying the voices of all residents, ensuring that diverse perspectives are heard and considered in our decision-making process. By fostering inclusivity and dialogue, we can build consensus and forge a path forward that reflects the collective aspirations of our community.
Looking ahead, we must prioritise the development of future-proof infrastructure with strategic planning.
Transportation with community facilities such as parks and connectivity to walkways, investing in robust infrastructure with Governments is essential for sustainable growth and resilience in the face of emerging challenges.
By laying the groundwork today, we can pave the way for a thriving and prosperous tomorrow for generations to come.
A vote for me is a vote for dedication and experience.
Phoenix Baker
1. Responsible management of council funds. In order to keep rates in the Fraser Coast as low as possible, we need to ensure we have responsible management of council funds.
2. Community engagement. One of the most common things I’ve heard from residents is that we need active community engagement from our councillors.
Something I am passionate about is using social media to communicate with our community, as well as attending as many community events as possible.
3. Footpaths. Due to a lack of footpaths and lack of maintenance to current ones, it has become dangerous for residents in wheel chairs, mobility scooters, or parents pushing prams to move around the Fraser Coast.
4. We need to be mindful of traffic management with future developments.
With our population increasing by over 2000 people every year, traffic management must be a priority with all new developments.
We must be creating roads and traffic systems that will continue to be effective as we grow.
5. Community parks in new residential estates.
We need to make good community parks in new residential areas a priority.
With the declining space for back yards in newly build homes, we need an area where kids can get out and have a space close to home to play and socialise with other kids.
Division 9 Fraser Coast council candidates
Greg Watts
1. Water security. We need to ensure that we will have a comfortable supply of water to meet the growing population on the Fraser Coast.
Current population growth is higher than the water supply security study estimated.
Even using their figures, there is a strong reliance on water restrictions to keep the taps flowing and we run the risk of dead storage volume by 2046 (That’s only 23 years away).
We need to get plans in place to source increased water supply.
2. Footpaths in suburban areas.
There are many streets on Division 9 that have rough, or uneven grassy areas for people to walk on.
The large ageing population in Hervey Bay means that people with mobility scooters find it difficult to commute to the shops. We need to increase funding for footpath installations.
A classic example is the Northern end of Denmans Camp road, with pedestrians forced to walk on the road to avoid the rough surface of the verges.
I would also like to see more enclosed off leash dog parks developed.
3. Crime. Crime rates are a major concern for many residents.
I would like to see council support programs aimed at engaging youth, changing attitudes and lifestyles.
Youth sporting program support, motorsport facilities, programs such as Operation Hard Yakka and implementing the WeWatch app, currently used in the Cairns area, would all help turn around some of the issues surrounding this difficult problem.
4. Storm water run-off. Talking with residents in the division has alerted me to ongoing issues with storm water drainage, especially in the south eastern section of Division 9.
Because of the very flat contour of some suburban areas water accumulates after heavy falls and takes some time to flow away. Often there is water up over the verge in these streets.
Placing extra culverts may help, otherwise larger pipes may be needed to solve this issue.
It certainly needs a carefully prepared engineering report for action.
5. Development. We need development in the Hervey Bay area to allow business to thrive and to keep people employed and tourists occupied.
Development needs to be sensitive to the unique culture of Hervey Bay.
We can’t afford to destroy the things that attract tourists to our region.
Tourism is really what keeps our economy thriving.
We need to ensure animal corridors through any new development to keep the wildlife that are part of our community.
Sara Diana Faraj
1. Water security. I believe that ensuring adequate water supplies for current and future growth is imperative for our community.
As one of the regions with the highest growth rates during Covid, we must ensure a proactive response to this issue.
This will require a detailed analysis of current community usage, projected growth, and usage, as well as investigating other viable options for water infrastructure for our community.
Council will need to advocate strongly to other levels of Government for funding to secure this project.
2. Sustainable development.
Currently, we are seeing large housing developments pop up and many trees and scrubland are being bulldozed to make way for these.
This is detrimental to our wildlife, insects and wildlife corridors and does not allow for diverse types of housing such as townhouses, apartments, and different house sizes.
For example, single individuals who may work long hours don’t require four-bedroom houses with large lawns to maintain. Rather, townhouses or apartments are more suited to them.
The council needs to understand the existing wildlife corridors and allow developments to be built around them rather than destroying them.
I also believe all new housing developments should include rainwater tanks, wildlife corridors, and green spaces that contain dog parks, playgrounds, and seating amenities.
These additions will allow for our wildlife to continue thriving as well as promote interconnectivity within these estates and the community.
3. A strategic plan to retain youth and young families to secure our workforce.
As the Fraser Coast has an ageing population, it is important to consider the retention of youth and young families in this region to continue boosting the economy through workforce and business ownership.
Currently, there is not a great deal of recreational activities for youth and young families to participate in across the region, and this is a part of the driving force for school leavers and families leaving the region and heading to the cities.
Additionally, the university and TAFE offerings in the Fraser Coast are limited, and advocacy for further funding from the Government is needed to continue building up these facilities so that students don’t need to leave to pursue further education. Other issues such as youth crime which is a multifaceted issue, can have parts attributed to this topic, and require action from all levels of government.
The council is responsible for improving the livability of its region, and a strategic plan can help set actions in motion for a whole of government and community response.
4. More transparency in decision-making, community consultation, and communication. I believe that the current level of transparency in decision-making, community consultation, and communication with the community is not adequate and needs to change. Ratepayers should be better made aware of decisions made by the council, and community consultation on projects and initiatives needs to encapsulate a broader scope than it currently does.
Communication in the modern day is mostly done via technology however, with an ageing population, it is difficult for some to access the internet and find information.
Each councillor is also responsible for effective communication with their division.
If elected, I am committed to continuing to doorknock residents (not only at election time), hold regular community chats, have a newsletter, keep an online presence, attend radio and TV interviews, as well as letterbox the division once a quarter at the very least, to keep up with changes in the region.
5. Advocating for better public transport in the community.
Currently, the public transport available on the Fraser Coast is not sufficient to meet the community’s needs and does not cover all the suburbs of the region.
This leads to the isolation of residents and can also lead to disadvantages based on residential postcode.
This does not promote interconnectedness in the community.
A solution for this issue is to advocate to other levels of government to fund more public transport within the region and look at updating the current timetable to meet the needs of our growing community.
Division 10 Fraser Coast council candidates
Zane O’Keefe
1. Connected, inclusive communities and spaces. (Inclusive participation).
2. Resilient and environmentally sustainable Region. (Partner with community to protect and enhance our natural environment for future generations).
3. Focused service delivery. (Design flexible and innovative services to meet the diverse community needs).
4. Focused organisation and leadership. (Grow the region through partnerships, advocacy and changemaking for the community).
5. Engaged and agile workforce. (Embed a values-based culture to enable employees and volunteers to work to the peak of their ability).
Rolf Light
1. Provide the constituents of Division 10 with a approachable, responsive and dedicated divisional councillor that will listen and have the capacity, track record and the skills to addressed their concerns.
2. Establish a self-funded divisional office.
3. Address road traffic issues, including the Ann St, Boat Harbour Dr crossing and Elizabeth Street speed hump debacle.
4. Redevelopment of the marina and refurbishment of the pier, both being iconic locations, and crucial for the image of the region.
5. Provide council with my commercial, business and disaster management experience, additionally my eight years of local government experience will be crucial to the new council.
Luke Strochnetter
1. Prioritising local roads. The corner of Dayman Street and Pulgul Street, Shell Street (major speeding issues, affecting mental health of local residents, regular accidents), Elizabeth Street speed bumps, Ann Street and Boat Harbour Drive intersection (plans have been approved to redo this intersection) and I would also like to advocate to see the Ann Street to Elizabeth Street road corridor project come to life to take traffic pressure off Cypress street and Shell streets.
Why is this important?
Our roads need to be safe for vehicle users, pedestrians and scooter users.
2. Getting Families and tourists outside.
I would like to see the creation of a Botanic Gardens Master Plan - this is such a beautiful space that is so well looked after by the parks staff but this space is under-utilised and under-promoted.
Last year there was approximately only 18,000 visitors to the gardens meanwhile the Neighbourhood Centre hosted a Christmas lights trail for two weeks which got 20,000 visitors.
A master plan that shows community groups that council is invested in the future of this space will see further activation of this space and investment from groups like the neighbourhood centre who are currently planning a $100 grand digital story trail with local art, stories and sculptures.
It’s important that we get people outside enjoying our amazing natural spaces.
3. I also believe that there should be more transparent engagement and communication with residents of Division 10. I am going to commit to have a mobile office set up at least once a week where residents can speak to me, raise issues etc.
These will be advertised well in advance as well.
4. Youth issues are very prevalent at the moment, not just crime but also mental health and a sense of lack of belonging.
I would love to see the introduction of a council-led youth committee that has representation from service providers, teachers, principals, chaplains, police, Neighbourhood Centre, Headspace, young people themselves etc.
We need a collaborative approach to combat youth crime and to increase youth participation and belonging on the Fraser Coast
5. Lack of support for our business community. I would also like to see the introduction of a “Welcome to business on the Fraser Coast” program where you can sign up and receive either a physical pack or digital pack with information on guidelines, permits, economic development team contacts in council, chamber of commerce information, videos on programs and support available locally etc.
Small business can be lonely and tough, it’s important business owners feel supported from day one, not just when a pandemic happens.
* Division 1 candidate Darcy Wain and mayoral candidate Grant Reynolds did not respond to our request for comment.
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Originally published as Fraser Coast council candidates reveal their top five issues
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