Tell us about yourself and what qualifies you for this role?
I’m a former police officer who has spent the past 22 years working in Mackay, mainly in crime prevention. I retired earlier this year and I’m looking for the next challenge. I’ve spent most of my time working with young people, on projects to teach safety and prevent crime. However I also have many other community connections with seniors, men’s, church and sporting groups. I am ready, willing and able to keep serving this community.
If you could initiate a project or address one issue in the region – what would it be and how you would go about it?
I am passionate about crime prevention measures which connect people and support families and children. I would love to see our school-based police officer positions filled within our region. This is a senior constable who deals directly with issues like bullying, assaults, cyber issues. I know the value of early interaction with a uniformed police officer in a school; it’s invaluable. I’d also love to see Neighbourhood Watch groups supported by a police officer as this helps build relationships with community and police.
What do you think the people most want now and how would you give it to them?
The thing that I have been hearing over and over again is that people want to see a reduction in crime. They also don’t want to live in fear of potentially being a victim of crime. They want to feel safe in their communities and especially within their homes. This will be addressed by the LNP’s plan to introduce tough youth justice laws – adult time for adult crime.
Tell us what your first 100 days would look like if you were successful in your election bid?
My focus will be on ensuring that promises are kept and commitments are fulfilled. These include commitments I’ve made as an LNP candidate to support Mackay Hockey build an indoor hockey facility and ensure sporting groups like AFL Saints can play under lights and out of the sun. I will also be working as part of a team to see changes to youth justice laws, improvements to our health services and the delivery of more social housing solutions.