Marine social scientist and Divers for Climate CEO Dr Yolanda Waters, pictured inspecting coral bleaching on the Great Barrier Reef, says she hopes all candidates running for Leichhardt attend the Reef, Climate and Energy Forum in Cairns on 19 March to put their environmental credentials on the table for voters. Photo: The Undertow Media.
The candidates hoping to replace Warren Entsch as the Member for Leichhardt are being asked to put their environmental cards on the table at a forum in Cairns on 19 March.
The Australian Marine Conservation Society, Cairns and Far North Environment Centre, Divers for Climate and Queensland Conservation Council are spearheading the Reef, Climate and Energy Forum at Hemingway’s Brewery from 6-8pm to provide those appearing on the Leichhardt ballot paper with a chance to liaise with voters on all matters environmental
To date, the environment has played a backseat role as a campaign issue in the fight for Leichhardt, with cost of living pressures and health stealing the spotlight.
Marine social scientist and Divers for Climate chief executive officer Dr Yolanda Waters said the event would let candidates engage with voters on the major climate challenges impacting the region in the lead-up to the federal election.
“I’m biased, but I think this is one of the most beautiful regions in the world,” she said.
“Why wouldn’t we do everything we could to make sure it stays that way? I think the candidates should be proud to stand up and be clear about how they will make sure our region is protected for generations to come.
“As the gateway to two World Heritage sites, Leichhardt relies on a healthy environment, and a thriving tourism industry and community, both of which are under increasing threat from climate impacts like coral bleaching, extreme weather, and rising costs linked to energy and disaster recovery.”
Dr Waters said organisers had been disappointed only two of the five Leichhardt candidates who had been announced had so far agreed to attend the forum.
“We know that climate, reef protection, and energy policy can be tricky topics, but they are critical to our region’s future,” she said.
“Both Matt Smith (Labor), a keen diver, and Phillip Musumeci (Greens) have shown strong interest in these issues; they understand the challenges facing our region, and are keen to continue the conversation at the forum to ensure our environment and economy are protected into the future.
“We’ve also had a productive meeting with Jeremy Neal (LNP), who’s also a keen snorkeller, and were surprised that he declined to attend this important community event; we hope he reconsiders, as we know that many divers, fishers, and tourism operators in Leichhardt are eager to hear his plans for protecting the reef.
“Robert Hicks (One Nation) has also declined our invitation, while we are still waiting to hear back from Les Searle (Family First).”
For those Cape York and Torres Strait voters not in Cairns next week, Dr Waters said the forum would be professionally recorded and available online after the event.
To register to attend the forum, click here.
