MUCH TO COME IN RACE TO FINISH LINE

THERE are three-and-a-half weeks to go in federal election 2022 and already there have been some big announcements in Leichhardt and Kennedy in the Far North. With the announcements have come the heavyhitters, most recently and most notably the opposition leader Anthony Albanese.

With China’s new Pacific pact with the Solomon Islands in full view, Labor came out swinging on the Cairns’ marine precinct.

They’ve also targeted water security and cash for a Kuranda Range Rd spruce-up.

Pleasingly, Cairns Regional Council’s water security plan has received support now from both major parties which should be a relief for the mayor and his team, but ultimately ratepayers.

Along with a water security pledge the LNP has focused on grassroots items including money for the Port Douglas Aquatic Park, Cape roads and sporting infrastructure.

We will see and hear more over the next couple of weeks as we head to the polls, including at Wednesday’s Leichhardt debate sponsored by the Cairns Chamber of Commerce, Advance Cairns and TTNQ.

Almost 40,000 more people have enrolled to vote this year across Leichhardt and Kennedy in comparison to the 2019 poll with many escaping the big lights of Sydney and Melbourne.

It is likely they will bring their voting habits with them and if that’s the case, Labor will likely reap the most benefit based on 2019 results.

However, this population wave brings with it new challenges for our policy makers in the future.

These city folk are used to better roads, infrastructure and services and reliable communications.

If they are to settle and stay longterm those who rule in the capital cities best take note.

Jennifer Spilsbury

Editor