Why I am standing for Whitsunday Council Division 1

I’m Dan Van Blarcom and I am standing for Division 1 to work for my fellow citizens on the Whitsunday Regional Council.

When I decided on a sea change in the 80s, I chose to move to Airlie Beach because I thought it was the most naturally beautiful place on the Qld coast with the best weather. Over twenty-five years of working around Airlie, the Whitsunday Islands and the GBR I still adore the ambience.

I ran for council in 1993 on environmental issues as the council then was considering building a big sewage pipe down the bay. While I did not win on that occasion, council then dropped that 18th century answer to a modern problem.

That showed me that, just by running, you could make a difference.

These days I have a young family and I want them to enjoy living in Paradise as much as I do. I want a clean, natural environment, good services and jobs, so the kids don't have to move away and break their mother's heart.

To enter this campaign, I had to present my plan and nomination to my wife Fiona and said, “It’s up to you darlin’. If you sign I’ll run, if you don’t I won’t” – She signed and here I am with her full support.

I want to show my young family that if you really care about your community, you need to get involved. In a small community such as ours, if you want something to happen, you need to help make it happen.

I have no hidden agendas and do not belong to a political party. I have a modest mortgage on a modest property.

In addition, if elected I know I can work with councillors and the state government; council staff and ratepayers.

My involvement with the community has been non-stop since my arrival. When we look at events such as Airlie Beach Race Week, I am happy to be able to say I was there at the beginning, around the table with my mates.

I have enjoyed my involvement in many clubs and community organisations.

I believe I’m a walking, talking smile and promotional campaign for Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays as my almost twenty years on ABC Radio Tropical North and other media such as Sunrise television testifies.

To bring back the vibrant fun factor to Airlie we need to get our rates under control or families will not be able to afford to live in paradise.

My trade in media production, my business management experience and qualifications. Studies and training in governance, safety, tourism, workplace training, information and media online, on air and print, quality assurance, and security coupled with my long service in the tourism industry makes me believe I have the ability to serve if called upon to do so.

I know, respect and indeed like personally all the other candidates here at the beach. I welcome them as a demonstration of the vibrant democracy for which we should all strive.

With the preferential voting system, you need consider numbering all the squares to ensure your vote gets Bang for the Buck.

That is what I want from council. Bang for our bucks. Value for money. Rates fair and under control.

Thank you. Cap'n Dan Van Blarcom

4946 4131