Meet the Candidates Event

The Chamber was delighted to host the ‘Meet the Candidates’ event last night at the Coral Sea Marina Resort.

The event provided the opportunity for the Mayor and Division 2 Councillor candidates for the 2024 Whitsunday Regional Council election to meet members of the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Bowen Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Whitsundays and Bowen Collinsville Enterprise, and explore specific issues relating to business, industry, and economic development.

“The Chamber was excited to bring together all Mayor and Division 2 Councillor candidates in what was a vibrant and exciting forum. Mayoral candidates Phil Batty, Ry Collins, Richard Evans & Peter Hood, and Division 2 Councillor candidates Clay Bauman and Tony Price, presented their credentials and discussed their priorities and vision for the region, as well as answering a myriad of questions that were posed from attendees,” said Chamber President Allan Milostic.

Questions were submitted via online platform Slido and covered many issues significant to the community. From discussion about potential solutions to the housing crisis and resolving its negative impact on businesses in the region, to addressing stormwater and flooding inundation, exploring methods to support and develop sustainable tourism infrastructure, improving the visual amenity of main streets in the region and engaging with community and business groups to successfully collaborate to resolve these issues.

“Many astute and insightful questions were posed by the audience, which gave each candidate an opportunity to discuss their intentions and strategies to implement sustainable change. Candidates engaged in lively discussion with regards to fostering a culture of change and improvement, and how they proposed to address short and long term priorities to improve business and the economy in the region,” Allan said.

The event was moderated by Judy Porter from Shiift who has over 25 years’ experience as a successful multi-industry business owner. Judy brought key insights and a wealth of knowledge to the event, and handled the fast-paced environment with professionalism and decorum.

The event presented a pivotal moment in the lead up to the election, with many attendees staying on after the panel had concluded to talk with the candidates and engage in discussion about important issues affecting the community.

The election takes place on Saturday 16 March 2024.

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