Gates to stand in new area

DEPUTY Mayor Donna Gates has ended speculation about her political future – but the announcement comes with a surprise.

The Division 1 councillor, who has always represented the far north of the Gold Coast, will contest Division 3 under the new council boundaries.

The Bulletin approached Councillor Gates after a full council meeting yesterday after an earlier report revealed a sixth candidate, businessman Matt Hamell, was standing in Division 1.

Poll watchers suggest only one other candidate at this point in the lead-up to the March 2020 poll will run in Division 3.

“It’s been the most difficult decision. It is awful to give up part of the area that you have represented, especially having been involved in northern Gold Coast for many, many years, and as a representative for 12 years,” Cr Gates said.

“To give up any part of it is not pleasing at all. But I’ve had to make a decision. My office is in the new Division 3 and I will be putting my energies into the east side as well as the west side.”

The new division includes Eagle Heights across to the motorway to Coomera Waters, south to Riverstone Crossing, all of Upper Coomera, Willow Vale and Wongawallan.

“I feel I still have a lot to contribute. I really do hope I’m elected in the new (Division) 3 because I will still be there to have a watchful eye over Division 1,” Cr Gates said.

Her decision confirmed the council will now at least get two new councillors, with Dawn Crichlow retiring in Southport. Gary Baildon will retire in Surfers Paradise but veteran councillor Paul Taylor intends to stand in the new division there.

IS FORCE WITH HIM? P34