Get involved to help keep our city on track
WHAT an exciting time standing as a candidate in the State election for the seat of Townsville. As terrified as I am speaking in front of an audience I really enjoyed and value the experience.
I don’t have the qualities that one would usually expect in a politician but I have the determination to push through anyway. This election campaign was largely about building the support network that I will need to be the kind of effective politician that I would like to be.
I have the intelligence and perspicacity to do a good job if I ever have the privilege to serve in Government but I can’t and won’t do it alone.
Once in power politicians are bombarded with angry demands and insults. Is it any wonder they are swayed by the sophisticated manipulations of paid lobbyists?
It was really satisfying to see a swing towards me but I can only speculate as to why there was that increase.
There is very little engagement in politics. There is a lot of anger and a lot of cynicism but very little positive feedback and guidance. That’s what I think is fundamentally wrong with the system and why it is so hard for good people to be attracted to the field and for those who get in to stay on track.
If there is one thing I would like to bring to politics it is a sense that we as citizens have a responsibility to play an active role in keeping our government honest and informed. If you don’t want to join a party then maybe join the newly- formed Townsville Get- Up Action group or delve into policies yourself and give positive feedback to people in power when they are doing the right thing.
People are fallible. There is no perfect person who you can elect and simply trust they will do the right thing. ‘ I trust Pauline’ is one of the most stupid slogans I’ve seen. Townsville residents who voted ON were voting for Allan Evans not her anyway, so it’s even sillier.
Everyone is breathing a sigh of relief now the election is over. It’s time now to get involved and help direct the future of our great city. REBECCA RYAN, Greens candidate for Townsville.