Over 120 local business leaders and residents gathered at The Ville for the Townsville Chamber of Commerce’s Queensland State Election Meet the Candidates breakfast this morning to hear directly from the candidates about their plans and policies before heading to the polls this month.
Moderated by ABC North Queensland’s Susan Graham-Ryan, with Paula Tapiolas as timekeeper, the event gave attendees the chance to hear from candidates running in the Hinchinbrook, Mundingburra, Thuringowa, and Townsville electorates.
Each candidate submitted a brief introductory video before answering two key questions, each within a strict 30-second limit. Audience members also participated in live polling throughout the event, revealing that a significant portion had already decided on their vote. Major concerns influencing voters included the cost of living, crime, reducing red tape for business owners, insurance costs, and stamp duty.
Queensland’s State General Election will be held on Saturday, 26 October 2024, with early voting opening Monday 14 October.
Heidi Turner, CEO of the Townsville Chamber of Commerce, said engaging with the candidates is vital for a healthy democracy.
“In this election, voters will be selecting representatives who will make critical decisions on issues such as health, education, transport, housing and law enforcement – all of which have a direct impact on daily life and the local business environment,” she said.
“This event provides an opportunity for our members and the community to have their questions asked and hear firsthand how each candidate plans to support the growth and development of our region.
“There is nothing quite like seeing candidates in one room answering questions about their plans, polices and views on the needs of our region.
“It’s not just about casting a vote—it’s about understanding the policies that will shape the future of Townsville and the surrounding areas.
“We’re thrilled with the success of our Meet the Candidates Breakfast with over 120 members of our business community joining us. It was encouraging to see so many attendees engaging with the candidates and the important issues facing our business community.
“It’s great to know our advocacy work is making an impact, with several candidates referencing policies aimed at addressing key challenges like payroll tax, which continues to be a barrier to business growth, and the removal of stamp duty on insurance—something we’ve long argued is a form of double taxation
“We look forward to continuing to work with the elected representatives to ensure that these critical issues remain at the forefront of their agenda. The Townsville business community deserves support that allows them to thrive and grow.”
The candidates who participated in the Meet the Candidates event, in order of ballot allocation, were:
Hinchinbook
Annette Swaine – LNP
Nick Dametto – KAP
Mundingburra
Les Walker – ALP
Michael Pugh – KAP
Janelle Poole – LNP
Thuringowa
Aaron Harper – ALP
Steven Clare – One Nation
Natasha Lane – Independent
Natalie Marr – LNP
Reuben Richardson – KAP
Townsville
Margie Ryder – KAP
William Tento – Family First Queensland
Scott Stewart – ALP
Wesley Newman – Independent
Adam Baillie – LNP
