Member for Leichhardt Matt Smith is continuing the fight to get remote voices heard as he makes his way across the Cape. Photo: Supplied.
Leichhardt MP Matt Smith has been making his way across the Cape as wet season concerns rise across the region.
The Labor Federal Member was seen engaging with residents in Weipa, Aurukun and Napranum last week as part of his promise to visit every Cape York community in his electorate.
Mr Smith also plans to visit Lockhart River, Kowanyama and Pormpuraaw before Christmas.
“The Cape makes up the vast majority of the electorate of Leichhardt and it’s clear to me the people and communities of Cape York and the Torres Strait have been ignored and let down for too long,” he said.
“The families and hard-working people of the Cape and the Torres Strait deserve the same respect and attention as any other Australians.
“They deserve to be heard and it’s my job to listen to them.”
To date, the Leichhardt MP has also been seen in Bamaga, the Northern Peninsula Area, Cooktown, Hope Vale, Gungarde, Wujal Wujal, Mapoon, Thursday Island, Horn Island, Saibai Island, Lakeland, Laura and Coen.
“Around this time of year, our attention always turns to the extreme weather in our corner of the world. A lot of folks are still hurting and building back better, two years on from Cyclone Jasper and the devastating floods,” he said.
“As I yarn with mayors, councillors and local leaders, the same concerns come up again and again – resilience against extreme weather and climate change.
“Adequate healthcare and housing often come up too. When a remote community is isolated by floodwaters, it’s vital people can still get access to the resources they need and are entitled to.
“I have already been vocal in Canberra about the challenges and opportunities of the Cape and Torres Strait, and will continue to be a strong advocate for the region. Just because we’re built tough up here, doesn’t mean we deserve to be ignored.”
