Over 80 residents attended the Meet the Candidates evening hosted by Doctors for the Environment Australia and Parents for Climate. The event, held at BMEC, provided an opportunity for voters to hear from candidates vying for the seat of Calare, with a focus on environmental and climate issues impacting the region.
The evening was moderated by Ashley Bland, Founder of Constructive Energy, who guided the discussion and facilitated audience questions. Candidates in attendance included Independent Kate Hook, Labor’s Julie Cunningham, and Greens representative Ben Parker. Apologies were received from the sitting Member for Calare, Andrew Gee, as well as candidates Sam Farraway (Nationals), Robert O’Donovan (Independent), and Jennifer Hughes (One Nation). Statements were read on behalf of Andrew Gee and Robert O’Donovan, outlining their views on environmental policies and regional issues. However, no comments were provided from the One Nation candidate.
Each of the attending candidates introduced themselves and shared their motivations for running in the election. They spoke about their personal connections to the region and their visions for a sustainable future. The discussion then moved to audience questions, covering a range of pressing concerns from renewable energy projects and water security to sustainable agriculture and climate adaptation.
The candidates addressed key environmental topics and discussed policies related to climate action, economic stability, and sustainability initiatives. The conversation covered renewable energy transitions, land management, and regional development in the context of climate change.
The engaged audience posed questions about how each candidate planned to tackle local environmental challenges, their stance on coal and gas projects, and policies regarding sustainable land management. The discussion reflected a shared concern for the region’s future and a strong interest in electing representatives who prioritise environmental sustainability.
With the election approaching, the event offered residents a valuable chance to hear firsthand from candidates and make informed decisions at the ballot box. The discussions highlighted the importance of climate policy in shaping the future of Calare and the need for leadership that acknowledges both environmental and economic realities.
Pictured: MC Ashley Bland, Ben Parker (Greens), Dr Julie Cunningham (Labor) and Kate Hook (Independent)
