Councillor Jason O’Pray announces that he will run for Sunshine Coast mayor

A veteran Sunshine Coast councillor says he is ready to become mayor as he reveals his bold ideas and plans for the region, officially launching his campaign flanked by supporters including fellow councillors.

A veteran Sunshine Coast councillor says he is ready to become mayor, as he announced bold plans for the region, flanked by family, friends, and fellow councillors.

Supported by a large crowd that included councillors Peter Cox, Christian Dickson, Ted Hungerford and Terry Landsberg at the Maroochydore Surf Club, councillor Jason O’Pray officially launched his campaign on Tuesday.

“I’m totally ready to run in the 2024 local government election to become your Sunshine Coast mayor,” Mr O’Pray said.

“The timing is right, I’m 50 years old, I’m fit, healthy, highly-energetic, driven, and excited for the future of the Sunshine Coast.

“The people on the Sunshine Coast deserve an experienced steady set of hands, someone who knows what they’re doing, and is ready to start right now.”

Cr Jason O'Pray is running to be mayor of Sunshine Coast Council.

As part of his pitch for mayor, Mr O’Pray announced five main pillars that encompass his vision for the Sunshine Coast.

“I want to protect our lifestyle, the economy, our community services, environment sustainability, and our infrastructure,” he said.

He also pitched some bold ideas that he would prioritise if elected including the creation of a new hinterland portfolio within the council and a national sports team.

Cr Jason O'Pray with his election campaign team at his mayoral announcement.

“Our lifeguard service is one of the greatest investments of our Sunshine Coast and I want commit $7m to the service by the end of next term,” he said.

“I want to introduce a brand new hinterland portfolio, consisting of two hinterland councillors and the mayor, that are completely dedicated to its people.

“I also want to find another national sporting franchise after the Sunshine Coast Lightning’s huge success.”

Mr O’Pray said his support of Stockland’s controversial Twin Waters West won’t hinder his election campaign.

“I door knocked the entire area, I got a full understanding of what the community wanted,” he said.

“The clear advice given to me was ‘I don’t care, just get on with it.

“The commentary that I got back post the decision has been fine.”

Allan 'Clarkie' Clarke with his former student Cr Jason O'Pray.

Other mayoral candidates so far include television presenter and long time journalist Rosanna Natoli, well-known Montville local Wayne Parcell PSM, and prominent social media critic Michael Burgess.

There is speculation Alex Surf Club development director Ashley “Tugboat” Robinson will throw his hat in the ring.

“In the last week or two, I’ve gotten more serious about it,” Mr Robinson said.

“I’m thinking about it really seriously and we’ll make a decision straight after Christmas.”

Election day will take place on Saturday, March 16, 2024.

Originally published as Councillor Jason O’Pray announces that he will run for Sunshine Coast mayor