Four candidates will be contesting the Nanango Electorate at Saturday’s State Election

November 24, 2017

On Monday, southburnett.com.au emailed each of the four Nanango candidates contesting Saturday’s State Election and asked them if they would answer five simple questions.

Three responded with their answers … and we thank Deb Frecklington (LNP), Ben Rankin (ALP) and John Harbison (Greens) for taking the time out from their busy campaigns to reply.

Our questions aimed to provide the candidates with an opportunity to speak about some local issues as well as hopefully give our readers an insight into their priorities and personalities.

They were asked to limit their responses to 200 words.

Below are the questions, followed by the answers from each of the three candidates (in ballot paper order):

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Question 1:

What can the State Government do to help the South Burnett prepare for when Tarong Power Station and the Meandu Mine do close … whether it is next year or in 2030 (just 13 years away)?

John Harbison (Greens)

Across Australia, there is a transition away from coal-fired power. With this comes significant employment changes. Tarong workers should receive due notification of government decisions in order to effectively transition to other work. While the timing of the closure is very uncertain, increased local infrastructure projects are a pathway for transitioning workers should closure occur in the near future.

The government should ensure that Stanwell Corporation carries out full rehabilitation of the power station and mine sites. Local firms should be given preference in this rehabilitation work.

Deb Frecklington (LNP) – sitting member

The Tarong Power Station and Meandu Mine will remain open under an LNP Government. We are committed to the people of the South Burnett and the future of Stanwell in our region.

My focus is firmly on creating opportunities for the people of the South Burnett. We all know that regional Queensland is a wonderful place to live, but it needs to be re-invigorated. Under the LNP, we’re determined to ensure regional Queensland gets its fair share. One of our most important policies is to reinstate the Royalties for Regions infrastructure program. This $500 million program will ensure regional communities can once again share in the benefits of the wealth they create. The LNP will also implement a $100 million youth jobs package to tackle youth unemployment and assist small business.

Ben Rankin (ALP)

What we have seen is a reliance and push for a double-down effect on that reliance. This helps no-one long-term, let alone the community more broadly. The State Government has the ability with the right Representatives to bring alternatives to the people. Investment in education and training is a must and frankly a priority, as the shift occurs and nears a reality.

People need to see the transition not only has merit, but benefit across the wider community. Being adaptable, allowing diversity for the South Burnett will see a reduced impact from the loss of that reliance. Labor has been progressing through several programs specifically for Regions like the South Burnett.

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Question 2:

All four candidates have said they oppose Moreton Resources’ proposed Kingaroy coal mine. What can you do to stop it?

John Harbison (Greens)

While the application process for a mine immediately south of Kingaroy has commenced, this process has a long way to go before the project can be approved. It is unlikely that the project is economically feasible, it will have detrimental economic and social impacts, and there is great uncertainty about the feasibility of its proposed rehabilitation options.

The Strategic Cropping Land legislation needs to be strengthened including better soil criteria. Generally, legislation must be improved to recognise the primacy of good quality agricultural land over mining so farmers are not continually harassed by inappropriate resource proposals.

Deb Frecklington (LNP) – sitting member

As I have stated before, I support development and economic progress for our region. However, I cannot support Moreton Resource’s proposal to build a coal mine on Kingaroy’s doorstep, on the basis that it fails at the first hurdle – due to its proximity to a highly populated area and that it will impact on rich agricultural land.

I have been working in conjunction with the Kingaroy Concerned Citizens Group over the past several years to present the concerns of the community to the State Government. I will continue this work as the local member, and highlight the problems associated with this proposal to ensure this mine does not proceed.

Ben Rankin (ALP)

The proposed open cut coal mine is clearly controversial, however when that aforementioned reliance is continued folks can struggle to accept the negatives. Whilst the application is at the stage it is, personally the biggest action that can resist the going ahead, is finding valid alternatives to the much-needed employment needs.

The other sides of politics are pushing for potentially two  new stations in North Queensland. Surely this can be seen as increasing the demand for localised coal product, whilst creating more pressures on the ageing stations, reducing their life-spans. Neither fare well for the South Burnett. Working with the community and stakeholders towards the alternatives, taking this result to the governance along with appropriate negatives reported already is an essential priority.

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Question 3:

The South Burnett needs another major employment industry, such as a correctional facility or a manufacturing / value-adding plant. Any ideas?

John Harbison (Greens)

Due to the changing nature of the workplace and work patterns, it is difficult to predict what government employment initiatives will best benefit the South Burnett. Disruptive technologies such as online shopping, automation, and telecommuting have both advantages and disadvantages. By reducing the cost of living, an increase in discretionary spending will help local retailers.

I think the most effective employment measure is support of existing agriculture and related businesses through improved infrastructure. The Greens propose addressing the national infrastructure deficit, particularly in rural and regional areas. This will also largely involve more construction and maintenance jobs in local communities.

Deb Frecklington (LNP) – sitting member

It’s important to ensure the right incentives are in place to encourage economic development in regional areas. Incentives like the LNP’s plans to increase the payroll tax threshold to give businesses certainty to invest and employ more locals. And our pledge of  $35 million to fix the 11km single-lane section of the Mundubbera-Durong Road and the Boyne River Bridge – a key transport corridor vital to the continued economic prosperity of our region.

The LNP understand that the construction and manufacturing sector contributes almost $64 billion to the State’s economy and provides jobs for around 450,000. But sadly, under Labor we are losing our entrepreneurial spirit. In previous years Queensland was seen as a state of potential. A State where if you backed yourself and took a chance you were given every opportunity. The LNP has a comprehensive policy to reinvigorate and grow this sector.

Ben Rankin (ALP)

The South Burnett has a very clear connection to agriculture, and that should remain. Like any industry, though, modernisation can only be resisted for so long. I have openly supported the value-adding side of the sector.

We have many options within primary production. By sending raw product out we are missing the chance of seeing higher employment and localised economic gains. Value adding should absolutely be looked into, more so whilst there are funding options available under the State Labor programs for business development and expansions should we be returned. Some have already been spoken about being cut if the LNP gains governance.

Folks that have spoken to me know that I see transport options as potentially viable, along with bringing manufacturing to the region. I also have ideas towards the arts and sports, given the talented local people we have in the region. Could there be options to increase these sectors? I believe so.

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Question 4:

Do you think climate change is real? If so, what should the State Government be doing about it?

John Harbison (Greens)

Climate change is real and is caused by mankind’s increasing carbon emissions in the form of carbon dioxide and methane. It threatens agricultural production, transport infrastructure, environment and health. The solution to this threat is to dramatically reduce our carbon emissions.

Increasing carbon dioxide is also steadily causing ocean acidification, described as the “ugly sister” of climate change. Acidification threatens marine life by making it harder to form sea shells and coral.

Country people are most in need of climate change transformation and need local politicians to lead this transformation; however, currently this support is not being provided.

Deb Frecklington (LNP) – sitting member

I believe governments around the world have a responsibility to protect our environment for future generations. There is much to be done on this issue, but most importantly, a future State LNP Government has committed to support the National Renewable Energy target that will see more than 23 per cent of Australia’s electricity generated from renewable energy by 2020.

At the moment, Queensland has the lowest level of large-scale renewable energy capacity in the National Energy Market. The LNP will encourage renewable investment in Queensland.

We also plan to set up a one-stop shop to facilitate approvals for renewable energy projects to help overcome any unreasonable delays in obtaining project approvals.

Ben Rankin (ALP)

Is climate change real? In short, yes. The more important question is “Is climate change affected by human influence?” Yes.

Climate change is affected by many aspects. The responsible thing to me, is to reduce what we can, manage what we can. Importantly, providing better than the generation before. State Governments should follow that intent, improving lives moving forward and not trying to hold a regressive direction. Promoting and investing in sectors that reduce the effects of climate change, whilst seeing increased amounts of employment surely is a positive direction to take.

Sadly after discussing matters with several local producers that do agree with climate change being a reality, there is a shortfall in awareness of Labor’s actions and results along with continued misguided judgments. I seek to aid changing this to see that the benefits available continue to be passed on.

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Question 5:

Why should we vote for you?

John Harbison (Greens)

Queensland voters realise the major parties pander to big business rather than serving local communities. In contrast, the Greens can provide communities with a strong voice.

The Greens have led the political discussion for a long time. There is a growing history of Greens’ policies that major parties immediately dismiss but eventually adopt. The growing list of mainstream policies instigated by the Greens include banning semi-automatic firearms, a banking royal commission, reform to negative gearing and capital gains tax, same-sex marriage, and the National Disability Insurance Scheme. So vote progressive, vote Green to get things done for your community.

Deb Frecklington (LNP) – sitting member

I’m extremely proud to have served as the LNP Member for Nanango, ensuring the people of the South Burnett have the best representation possible in the Queensland Parliament.

We live in a beautiful part of Queensland, but I don’t believe we should accept lower standards just because we live outside Brisbane’s boundaries. I’m proud to be part of an LNP team which will help families get ahead by freezing car rego and reducing electricity bills. We will build the roads we need and introduce common-sense plans that help local businesses, create jobs, and make our communities stronger. With your support, I’ll continue to fight and deliver for the South Burnett.

Ben Rankin (ALP)

Why vote for me? The clear complaint is folks are feeling ignored, left behind, and misled. The disconnect from representation to the “average Joe” is strongly voiced. The anti-professional or career politician aspects of the population can’t be denied.

How can a Representative fully understand and relate to the effects of being a battler, whilst not experiencing it in today’s world? I believe politics isn’t about the celebrity, but the results achieved for the many. As Labor’s candidate, I would like to see the South Burnett and Nanango electorate continue to receive as the region has been under Labor should the honour be given to me as your elected MP.

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Where To Vote

If you haven’t already voted by pre-poll, don’t forget to visit your local booth on Saturday … voting is compulsory, and ALL squares must be numbered on the ballot paper (Photo: AEC)

Polling Booths in the Nanango Electorate will be open from 8:00am to 6:00pm on Saturday:

  • Blackbutt State School
  • Booie Hall
  • Brooklands Rural Fire Brigade
  • Cherbourg Council Chambers
  • Cloyna State School
  • Coolabunia State School
  • Coominya State School
  • Cooyar State School
  • Crows Nest State School
  • Durong Community Hall
  • Esk State School
  • Fernvale State School
  • Goomeri State School
  • Inverlaw Farmers Hall
  • Kilkivan State School
  • Kilcoy Memorial Hall
  • Kingaroy State High School
  • Kingaroy – St John’s Lutheran School
  • Kingaroy – Taabinga State School
  • Kumbia State School
  • Maidenwell Hall
  • Mondure Community Hall
  • Moore Soldiers Memorial Hall
  • Mount Kilcoy State School
  • Mount Tarampa State School
  • Murgon – South Burnett PCYC
  • Nanango State School
  • Proston State School
  • Quinalow State School
  • Tansey Hall
  • Tingoora State School
  • Toogoolawah State School
  • Wheatlands State School
  • Wondai Memorial Town Hal
  • Wooroolin State School
  • Yarraman State School

Wheelchair access at these polling booths can be checked online

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Callide Electorate

A small section of Callide enters the South Burnett.

Callide candidates (in ballot paper order) are  Jaiben Baker (Greens), Robbie Radel (Katter’s Australian Party), Darren Blackwood (ALP), Colin Boyce (LNP), Sandra Anderson (Independent) and Sharon Lohse (Pauline Hanson’s One Nation).

Polling Booths in the Callide Electorate will also be open from 8:00am to 6:00pm on Saturday::

  • Banana State School
  • Baralaba State School
  • Bell State School
  • Benaraby State School
  • Biggenden State School
  • Biloela State School
  • Brigalow State School
  • Bullyard State School
  • Calliope State School
  • Chinchilla Catholic Church Hall
  • Chinchilla North Masonic Temple
  • Drillham State School
  • Eidsvold Community Hall
  • Gayndah State School
  • Gin Gin State School
  • Jambin State School
  • Jandowae Memorial Hal
  • Jimbour State School
  • Miles State High School
  • Monto State School
  • Mount Perry – Perry Shire Hall
  • Moura Tennis Club
  • Mulgildie State School
  • Mundubbera CWA Hall
  • Taroom State School
  • Thangool State School
  • Theodore State School
  • Ubobo State School
  • Wallaville State School
  • Wandoan State School
  • Warra State School
  • Wowan State School

Wheelchair access at these polling booths can be checked online


 

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