Greens candidate Phillip Musumeci, independent Munganbana Norman Miller and Labor’s Matt Smith join moderator Fiona Sewell on stage at the Reef, Climate and Energy Forum in Cairns on 19 March. Photo: Angelina Pilarinos Photography
Three of the six candidates currently announced in the race for Leichhardt had their environmental priorities put in the spotlight in front of a full house at a Cairns forum on 19 March.
More than 100 community members attended the Reef, Climate and Energy Forum at Hemingway’s Brewery, during which the candidates in attendance presented their policies on climate action, reef protection and energy affordability.
Labor’s Matt Smith, Greens runner Phillip Musumeci and recently announced independent Munganbana Norman Miller took to the stage at the forum, which was hosted by Far North Queensland conservation and community groups.
Mr Smith said he believed strong policy around climate change and reef protection were vital from both environmental and economic perspectives.
“The reef is the reason all of us are here,” he said.
“You look at Cairns, you look at the Far North in general – the reef is both a major social driver and economic driver.
“Events like this are a really important part of democracy; people might not agree with what I’ve got to say, but I’m here, I’ve shown up, and I’m ready to listen.”
Mr Musumeci said Leichhardt families were worried about rising energy bills, extreme weather events and threats to the Great Barrier Reef, and took aim at the coal, gas and nuclear policies of the two major parties.
“Both (parties) take millions in coal and gas corporate donations to fund their election campaigns,” he told the forum.
“We can’t keep voting for the same two parties and expecting a different result.”
Australian Marine Conservation Society campaigner Tanya Murphy said the strong turnout at the forum demonstrated how important the environment was to Leichhardt voters.
“Leichhardt voters are deeply invested in the future of the reef and the climate policies that will protect it,” she said.
“The packed room and engaged discussions last night show that people want real commitments, not just promises.”
