Maryborough MP John Barounis challenges online trolls in stunning Facebook post
A fed-up first-term MP says community leaders must call out online trolls after posting then deleting a confrontational post.
Maryborough MP John Barounis has taken on the trolls, telling keyboard critics that if they have something to say they should do so in person.
It comes after he took aim at trolls in a since-deleted Wednesday night Facebook post on the recently elected LNP member’s Facebook page.
“Good evening, Maryborough Electorate,” the post read.
“It has come to my attention that a few individuals have made derogatory comments on social media.
“My office is open to everyone, and I encourage these people to come to my office and say it to my face.
“Have a lovely night.”
Asked about the post on Thursday and if he’d been asked to remove it (eg by state leadership), he didn’t respond.
However, he did release a statement saying he was a “huge supporter and advocate of open and honest discussions”.
“It’s what makes this community great. I believe it’s important that all engagement remains respectful,” Mr Barounis said.
“I think it’s important as community leaders we call out a growing trend of people who are crossing the line online. If you don’t call this out, you’re allowing it to get worse.
“My goal is always to foster positive dialogue with the community which is exactly why my office door is always open and I am willing to speak to anybody, even if at times we may not agree on a particular issue.”
The original post was met with mostly supportive comments with some telling him to simply block those who caused trouble.
Anna Kevin Morgan wrote: “There are always haters, John. Stay true to yourself and continue to do what you believe is right for the community of Maryborough. You can’t please everyone.”
Others were surprised by the tone of the post including John Ivey who wrote: “I must say this is not a post I would expect from a member of state parliament.”
Parliament will next sit on Tuesday, February 18.
More Coverage
Originally published as Maryborough MP John Barounis challenges online trolls in stunning Facebook post
Police release CCTV in public appeal for missing Queensland mum
New information has come to light surrounding the movements of a missing regional Queensland mother, who hasn’t been seen or heard from since February 2. Footage and update here.
First blocks in huge 2100-lot Rockhampton estate go on the market
It’s been 15 years in the making but the first blocks of land for sale in a huge masterplanned community in Rockhampton are attracting strong buyer interest just days after its official launch.