2024 Southern Downs Regional
Council Election
We have asked all candidates a series of questions relating to sustainability. We posted the answers below in the order they were received. Some candidates did not reply.
Mayoral Candidate Responses
Councillor Candidate Responses
Summary of responses
To make it easier for voters to assess candidates on environment and sustainability issues, GBSAN have released a colour-coded quick guide - see right.
Full responses can be viewed below.
Questions
Anaerobic Digester
Food Organics and Green Organics (FOGO) account for over 40 % of the average general waste wheelie bin in the Southern Downs. Currently, this valuable resource goes to landfill, where it produces methane and contributes to global warming. We can divert FOGO to an Anaerobic Digester and capture the resulting biogas to generate electricity, produce compost for our farmers and extend the life of the current landfill, saving ratepayers and council money and positioning the region at the forefront of innovation.
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
The Southern Downs Region currently has no safe or lawful method for residents to dispose of household chemicals and poisons. Poisons are not accepted in general waste bins or at any waste facilities, yet no simple or affordable means of disposal is available to residents. We desperately need a solution to enable residents to dispose of household chemicals simply and freely.
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
Improve recycling rates
It is clear that residents of the Southern Downs are confused about recycling. According to an SDRC study by Envirocom in 2021, around 20% of the contents of the region’s domestic wheelie bins could have been recycled but went to landfill and about 15% of the recycling bin contained material which should never have been in the bin. The Southern Downs is nowhere near meeting its own recycling targets. There is a clear case for investment in services, infrastructure and education that supports enhanced resource recovery.
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
Protecting our Landscapes
The Granite Belt is known for its high biodiversity values and is fortunate enough to still have large areas of remaining bushland. Apart from the existing national parks and state forests, the region contains important natural ecosystems on private land, including in a large number of Land for Wildlife and Nature Refuge properties. These landowners could benefit from assistance with information and technical advice on how best to manage their properties to enhance their conservation values and deal with issues such as appropriate fire management, weed and pest control, and the protection of threatened species. Having dedicated Council staff to help them would be of enormous benefit to the local community.
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
Cat Management
There is a wealth of information about the adverse impacts of cats on native wildlife and the need to adopt appropriate control measures to reduce these impacts as well as providing for a safer environment for domestic cats.
In 2020, the Council received a grant of $174,000 from the Federal Government to develop a cat management strategy. Despite a majority of people who responded to a survey and who commented on the draft strategy supporting stronger control measures such as compulsory registration and de-sexing, the final strategy adopted by the Council failed to include these actions. Many other Councils throughout Australia have adopted a range of measures to try and control the impacts of domestic cats and the Southern Downs Regional Council should do likewise.
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
Water Security
The Granite Belt community is acutely aware of the challenge posed by water security. The region's water and hydrological profile is highly constrained, with numerous competing demands for this valuable community resource.
It is important that the council in partnership with the community develops a sustainable water security strategy that acknowledges the dynamic influences on water availability and demand, including a changing climate, population growth, shifting demographics, multiple users, changing economic profiles, and the emergence of new economic activities while traditional ones decline. These drivers will shape the demands on our limited water resources rapidly.
To ensure long-term water security, we must focus on the future, understanding the projected water demand in the coming years and beyond.
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
Climate Change and Energy
The Southern Down’s electricity supply is highly vulnerable to bushfires and storm events that will increase in frequency and severity as the climate warms. Our region is at the end of a single transmission line which if severely damaged would cripple critical energy and telecommunications infrastructure resulting in potentially devastating social disruption and economic loss. Working with the State Government to investigate how a regional micro-grid could dramatically reduce this risk to electricity supplies should be a priority for the new Council.
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
Mayoral Candidates
Lindsay Goodwin
Your background
I was born in Warwick. My father also born here grew up in Cottonvale on a orchard. He went to Thulimbah school. My cousins stayed on the orchard on Goodwin Rd Thulimbah till recently.
I left Warwick when I was 3 and returned in 1990 when transferred here by the Department of primary industries. Upon finishing school I joined the Westpac bankfor 3 years had a few other jobs then went the Queensland Uni Gatton Campus on a three-year course. I then joined the DPI and had a career there for 33 yrs. serving in Centre's like Wandoan, Brisbane and Charleville. I felt i wanted a new direction in 2012 so I resigned and moved on to a lucerne farm at Junabee. So I have been on the Southern Downs region now for 34 years.
I had had 3 yrs banking, 33yrs with DPI in state government and 12 years farming. Also did a small development near the Ampol coming into Warwick where I bought a paddock, rezoned it, subdivided then put two removal houses on it So i have banking, Government, farming and a bit of subdivision experience. I have travelled extensively and gained a lot of experience on my travels
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
Yes most definitely.
In 1999 and 2001,2003 I travelled to Germany. Here I got friends with a man who was the CEO of the Bielefield electricity department. He explained that all the waste in Germany goes into supplying Electricity to Bielefield pop about 350000 by converting FOGO to a Anaerobic Digester.
I wondered then why this happening to Australia. I will very much support the funding for a feasible study. There must be a lot of information on to to resource as that was only one city
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
Yes most definitely. As long as we keep in budget these very important issues must be raised. Farmers have a drum muster for all our old chemical drums. Expand this to include all residents.
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
Yes within budget again. I have been recycling myself for many years. I believe all households must recycle' So whatever it to get people to recycle I will support.
The residents must be educated. We need more facilities that accept a broader range of recyclable items.
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
You have touched on a many important issues in our community.
I agree we do need a full time bush care officer in the region.
All depending on budget. I am looking at other ways of increasing our income with increasing rates.
When I was in the DPI I was assigned to inspect all the properties that were fire damaged when the poor lady was burnt to death. Had 4 days on the Granite belt. Utter devastation. Must never happen again.
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
I am always upset to read the ways feral cats decimate our local small animal population.
More council funding will be available for compulsory for desexing off all cats non pedigree.
The registration should be low. Households have little spare cash for extras but love their cats. Maybe get uni vet students to desex cats in training for a min fee.
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
Water is life. Without water we will not be here .I myself life on Swan Creek and the Condamine river east of Warwick. Water is very important to us.
WE must address our future water concerns.
There must be region wide water security strategy created that will balance water requirements across the entire community. We have our orchardists [which my fater and uncle were one] supplies produce to Australia and the world, then we have our major and smaller town residents and smaller farms needing water to meet their basic needs. Water security is a major part of my election platform. I will be initiating a meeting with the state water mister as one of my earlier meetings if I am elected a mayor.
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
Natural Disasters and power shortages are becoming more frequent. Look at Mt Tamborine and Gold Coast Hinterland over Dec Jan. They were without power for weeks. Yes we must look at ways where we can guarantee. Our electricity supplies to all our residents. So we can organize a feasibility study into the micro-grid and battery to unsure energy resilience of the region.
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to answer your questions. They were all close to my heart and very important for our new council to address. I can't meet you at this time as I am having an operation on my knee { not very good timing }. I will look forward to meeting to .
Melissa Hamilton
Your background
I grew up in Central Queensland and left home at 17 to study law in Brisbane. I was a commercial finance lawyer, and my law career took me around the world, working in a wide range of jobs, everything from FIFO for a mining and civil engineering company to company secretary of a regional Australian bank. My partner and I have been coming to the Granite Belt since 2001, and we made our property in Eukey our home in 2016. There is nowhere else we’ve lived that has such a strong sense of community.
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
I think the first step for Council is developing a long-term plan on waste management and recovery. Such a plan should look at what opportunities there are to potentially create an income stream from waste management. Our neighbouring Councils have already taken concrete steps in this area. If an anerobic biodigestor is part of that strategy, then yes I would support looking for funding (including grant funding) to take the step of completing feasibility studies into all options that are promising.
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
I think that this is an excellent proposal. Council should review all opportunities for better resource recovery and better services for residents. Many councils provide this service, so I would hope it would be economically feasible for our Council to do this.
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
As per the answer to (2) above, and I would definitely support an expanded community education program. We need to ensure that our costs of waste management do not increase, as this will affect ratepayers. If education is required to keep these costs down, or reduce them, then I will support such a program.
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
Council needs to ensure its land is properly managed so as not to impact neighbouring land and farms, and this role should be appropriately resourced. Ideally bush care officers supporting Nature Refuges and the like should be funded or at least co-funded by the State Government as this is a State Government program. If the State Government does not provide the necessary support then this will depend on budgetary constraints (as yet unknown). Our neighbours in Toowoomba and Scenic Rim councils do fund bush care officers, so it certainly may be possible.
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
Yes, I will support a review of the cat management strategy. In my opinion the current Council wasted the $174,000 grant by engaging external consultants and ignoring the feedback from residents and local rescue groups. I will also re-establish the low cost feline desexing scheme that the current council defunded as this makes economic sense.
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
Yes.
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
No. What I will do is engage with Energy Qld to understand what the long-term plan is for energy security in our region, and discuss what Council’s role might be in supporting this plan and whether there are any opportunities for the community. I think committing to a feasibility study into just one option at this point does not make sense, until that higher level of strategic planning is done.
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
Vic Pennisi
Your background
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
-
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
-
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
-
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
-
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
-
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
-
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
-
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
I’ve been part of local council for the past 20 years and the mayor of the Southern Downs for the past 4 years. I’m extremely proud of what I have achieved during my first term as mayor and I am excited about the contribution I could make in my second term if re-elected.
Environment and sustainability is important to me, as it is to the whole community.
I was proud to lead council as Mayor through the development, and adoption, of the Southern Downs’ Environmental Sustainability Strategy 2021-2031 (and action plan).
It is an important document, that was created with support and in consultation with, the wider community. This strategy maps the direction council will go in the coming years with regard to environment and sustainability. This strategy was endorsed by councillors and forms a direction for council, as an organisation, to act on issues covered by the strategy. I give this strategy my complete endorsement and will work with the community, council staff and fellow councillors to implement it over the coming years.
I remain committed to the 2021-31 sustainability strategy(and action plan) and its core values of valuing water, reducing our footprint, valuing nature and building economic resilience. I am sure you agree with these important priorities as well.
As we move forward, as a council and community, implement this strategy, I look forward to working with the entire community, to ensure the benefits are shared by all.
Councillor Candidates
Cameron Gow
Your background
I have lived here all my life and my wife, and I, are raising our family here. I went to school here in Stanthorpe and my background is in farming.
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
While it is difficult to commit Council to fund a budget item before it is considered by Council, it is important to consider as many options as possible to deal with the Waste Stream generated in our community. I support innovation and Council should investigate options that better deal with waste that are affordable for our community and provide an overall benefit.
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
I have been in discussion with members of our community and Council Officers about a Household Chem Collect Program and I understand from early feedback that a scheme such as this is currently being investigated.
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
The current Waste Management Strategy has provision for a review of recyclables going into the waste stream and is monitored, and 'Sort It Sally' is already part of the Education Program on recyclables and she visits schools regularly.
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
At the previous election I supported the idea of two Bush Care Officers and still support the idea.
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
The Cat Management Strategy has been adopted by Council and registration of cats is something I have already supported and asked to be costed but is not part of the current Strategy. I understand that a bounty on cats has also been mentioned in the community as a possible control measure, but I don't support that.
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
The Regional Water Assessment is currently underway and should make up part of the way forward to secure better water management in relation to a more reliable supply of drinking water.
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
With the establishment of the Wind Farm on the western boundary of our shire and the Solar Farm just north of Warwick energy supply in our region is evolving and becoming more innovative and I support innovation at a reasonable cost, it has to be affordable.
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
Council has an Environmental Sustainability Strategy and is delivering on it to the point that there is a dedicated Sustainability Officer who has been reporting to council on what has already been done in relation to the Strategy and what is planned for the immediate future.
Morwenna Harslett
Your background
-
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
I think it would be inappropriate and irresponsible to commit to anything that has a significant budgetary implication without taking time to speak to other Councillors and Council Staff about it. I am aware that an Anaerobic Digester features in the Southern Downs Environmental Sustainability Strategy and I do believe that it could be a worthwhile investment so I would certainly support a discussion around the idea.
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
I would encourage households not to use chemicals or poisons and to seek alternative, safer and healthier products.
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
Education around any initiatives or changing trends in our society is always a good idea. As with my response to the previous question, I would first advocate for consumers to reduce the amount of packaging and waste matter they buy, thereby removing the problem before there actually is one.
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
There are already a number of schemes and programs available to educate and up-skill landowners regarding the sustainable management of their properties and the vast majority of landowners I know already take great care of their land, bush, wildlife and waterways so I do not think the creation of such a position is necessary.
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
In recent SDRC reports that I have read regarding pest management, it clearly states that cat desexing programs have been successful and that there are a number of other invasive species that pose much greater risk to the natural environment than cats.
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
There has been a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt for decades. My own father spent much of my childhood attending meetings on exactly this topic. It seems to me that certain groups within the region are deliberately hindering this process rather than being a part of the fair and equitable accessibility of which you write.
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
I would support a discussion with relevant and interested parties on this topic.
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
Kelvin Johnston
Your background
See granite belt music council website and Facebook.
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
Yes
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
Yes
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
Yes I believe community education is the key.
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
Yes
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
Yes
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
Yes
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
Yes
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
On council land bat habitate on bat island and further down quart pot creek council land and keep the canopy high so as not to allow bats to travel to nearby private properties.
Joel Richters
Your background
I currently live in Warwick and prior to this lived in Goondiwindi since 2014. Prior to this I was in the Army and moved every 2 years and so I have lived in many places. I was a medic, but after that I started working for Qld Health as an Operational Manager and now a Maintenance & Engineering manager. For the last 20 years I have worked across all three levels of government, so I have a well rounded understanding of good governance from a government view. I've volunteered in youth development and first aid. My favourite social sport is Tennis. My professional background has given me lots of knowledge and skills around budgets, HR management, infrastructure both new or maintaining it. These skills will help me I believe mostly with how to balance the councils budgets, find savings, and appropriately make decisions around infrastructure investment for the region. I will particularly be able to apply a view from a working class background, and I have the lived experience of not being able to afford food or struggling to find a home. I have previously been a candidate for state elections in Southern Downs twice (2017 & 2020). So since 2017 I have been quite involved in this region and this is where most of my knowledge and connection comes from. I'm a country person, always have been. I grew up on a sugar cane farm and have a pretty good understanding of life outside of a town... albeit as a teenager. So I know how to ride an ag bike and drive a tractor. I'm fairly young, maybe the youngest candidate but I'm old enough to remember a time before mobiles and internet.
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
Until I have a better understanding about our budget position I am unable to support specific spending. To make this decision I would need access to financial information that I currently don't have access to. I am able to commit to supporting any viable waste recovery and reduction initiatives that come before council. We need to invest more in recycling, and waste to energy transfer.
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
The status quo is not acceptable. As your councillor I would seek the options within our existing waste contracts. Whether or not this service is free, it should still be an option.
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
I would seek the advice of our staff and contractors about what broader range of recycling is available within our current facilities. Ultimately I would like to see our council team up with others nearby to have a dedicated recycling facility in Southern Downs.
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
I would support two officers being appointed, with one being an indigenous bush care officer.
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
I support the de-sexing of cats being mandatory for all residents unless they are a registered breeder. I also support registering cats to confirm compliance with de-sexing requirements.
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
I look forward to the release of the final Regional Water Assessment, and as a Councillor I will work collaboratively with my fellow councillors and the state government to deliver its recommendations. I also believe that council should be doing its part to assist with research and development of water evaporative covers. I will seek to have support from council to develop a 20 year strategy for urban water security.
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
I have publicly supported community batteries and this is something that I hope our council will work with state and federal governments to encourage this type of investment in our region. As your councillor I would do all that I can to encourage this.
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
I am excited for the future and as your councillor I would encourage our environmental sustainability strategy to include housing and industrial material production. These include eco-housing and emerging industries such as green concrete.
Sheryl Windle
Your background
I have lived in the Southern Downs region almost all of my life. My four sons were born and raised in Warwick. I love living here and I am very appreciative of having the opportunity to gain 8 years experience to date as a Southern Downs Regional Councillor.
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
The Budget will be one of the first things for the new Council to develop immediately after the election. If I am elected I would be keen to see a proposal put to Council for consideration in the budget for an Anaerobic Digester. However allocating funds for this would be a joint decision by all those around the table at the time.
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
I believe that a scheme is currently being investigated. It has definitely been a point of discussion.
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
Council is supportive of improving on recycling and has initiated a 'Sort it Sally' program through the Waste Management team. 'Sally' visits schools regularly educating students in ways that they can play a vital role in recycling at home and school. I believe educating our students on recycling is one of the best ways to see improvement in this area into the future.
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
I can see how having a dedicated bush care officer would benefit the community and I would be happy to support the position if funding is available in the budget or with outside funding support. There are already people in our region with valuable knowledge on bush care and who would most likely love an opportunity to share their knowledge.
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
I would support a further review of the cat management strategy. It is unfortunate that the registration of cats and de-sexing was not implemented.
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
Council is currently working with the Regional Water Assessment to reach a solution for long-term water security. I look forward to seeing the outcome of this.
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
I see the importance of ensuring the energy resilience throughout the region and beyond so would be supportive of a feasibility study into the development of a community micro-grid battery. We have seen two different forms of innovative energy in our region over the past few years with the Solar Farm and the current development of the Wind Farm. I am confident that we will see these develop further in time and will continue to evolve.
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
Protecting the environment for the sake of future generations has always been important to me. Council has a Environmental Sustainability Strategy in place and has appointed a Sustainability Officer to action this Strategy and report back to Council.
Marika McNichol
Your background
I went to Stanthorpe state high school , worked at Stanthorpe hospital for a while got married came back to Stanthorpe and ran the books for our earthmoving business raised a family and open and operated The Ugg Boot Lady business for 20 years
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
Yes that is environmentally a very good idea I can only advocate for it
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
Yes but I think there already have a system where you can dispose of chemicals
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
Yes that would be benificial
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
Landcare already advise how people can take care of their properties better
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
Domestic are not the problem feral cats are the problem this needs to be addressed better I don’t support compulsory regulation of domestic cats
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
Yes of course
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
Yes
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
Not at this stage
Sarah Deane
Your background
Health coach
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
I think it’s imperative to invest in innovative ideas, we have the technology at our fingertips to lower our carbon footprint and create electricity for waste facility. It’s a no brainer for me.
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
As a resident I find it frustrating that there isn’t a waste facility that caters for chemicals and toxic waste, if there isn’t somewhere designated to dump these chemicals, they are going to end up being dumped illegally and may end up in our waterways. This will be detrimental to wildlife and our own health as we keep adding poison to our environment. I think it would be helpful to educate our community on how these chemicals affect our body so they can make an educated decision on what products they buy.
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
Education plays a pivotal role in increasing our rates of recycling in the southern downs, a simple way to preserve this beautiful granite country we call home.
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
I think this is a fantastic idea, education is key to ensuring we can sustain our biodiversity in the district. If the budget allows, I will advocate for a dedicated council staff to help educate those private landowners with incredible bushland.
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
Pest Management is vital for our community whether it be flora or fauna, we need to have a cohesive plan for all towns in the district for a successful outcome. If the majority of the people are voting for this plan and it has been proven to work, it should be implemented.
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
23% of the SDRC total exports come from agriculture, that is limited to the amount of water our farmers have access to. If we can increase our water supply, we can increase our production rates and overall economy in the region.
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
I think this is a fantastic idea, having a natural disaster cut off our electricity would be devastating for so many businesses . I would back this idea, if being allected into council. Electricity security is an important part of any community.
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
I think it's imperative to implement technology in our region that will benefit our community and preserve our land for generations to come. We are at a pivotal point, where action needs to be taken. Looking at different LGA’s to see what technology is being used, is fundamental when deciding what is best for the community.
Brett Tunbridge
Your background
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
-
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
-
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
-
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
-
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
-
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
-
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
-
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?
As I have been asked by concerned interested individuals and organizations within the Southern Downs area. I would like to state my position on the relevant issue.
My home is not a dump, neither is my town (Pratten) my district (Downs) my country or my world! We all realize that the human race is in dire threat of drowning in our own refuse, this is an existential threat to our health and our environment. Through the indiscriminate use of non recyclable plastics and toxic materials, poorly made unrepairable goods with short lifespans (thus increasing waste and pollution) and improper disposal methods of dangerous goods we are destroying our environment.
It's that important!
As a Southern Downs councillor I will ensure that waste must be managed in a responsible, cost-effective and considerate way by closely monitoring all submissions to aid in this area. We all share the responsibility to contribute to the betterment of our society to improve our services both effectively and efficiently.
Candidate
Your background
Anaerobic Digester
Within the first 12 months of the new Council, will you commit your support for Council to allocate $30,000 in funding to complete a feasibility study for an Anaerobic Digester on the Southern Downs?
Household chemical waste disposal scheme
Will you commit your support to fund and implement a household chemical waste disposal scheme within the first 12 months of the new Council?
Improve recycling rates
In order to increase rates of recycling in the Southern Downs, in the first 12 months of the new Council would you support:
* The provision of facilities across the Southern Downs which can accept a broader and more comprehensive range of recyclable items?
* An expanded community education program to assist residents and business operators in maximizing resource recovery?
Protecting our Landscapes
Will you support the creation of a full time, adequately resourced SDRC bush care officer position within the first two years of this Council?
Cat Management
Will you support a full review of the effectiveness of the cat management strategy in the first year of Council including support for the compulsory registration of all cats in the Southern Downs?
Water Security
Over the next two years will you support the establishment of a process to create a water security strategy for the Granite Belt that will balance water requirements across the entire community both now and for the future and deliver fair and equitable accessibility for the whole community?
Climate Change and Energy
Will you support the completion of a feasibility study by the end of 2025 into the development of a community micro-grid and battery to ensure the energy resilience of the region in response to increasing natural disasters that are threatening the regions energy security?
Is there anything else you'd like to add about the environment, sustainability or any other related policies or plans?