Ratepayer's Assessment

Ratepayers assessment -Whitsunday Ratepayer's Association

Dear Committee,

Thank you for putting together a thought-provoking questionnaire for prospective candidates. It asks the hard questions I would expect any ratepayer to ask.

Indeed, in some areas I might even go further than that outlined. I am an independent and analytical thinker with a cherished creative streak that says ‘think outside the box’.

When I decided on a sea change in the 80s, I chose to move to Airlie Beach because I thought the area was the most naturally beautiful place on the Qld coast. Over twenty-five years later, with that time spent working around Airlie, the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, I still enjoy 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 dropped their 18th century answer to a modern problem. This showed me that, just by running, you could make a difference.

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

Our community leaders of the future need positive role models who can get results and work well with others. We need to show them that if you care about your community, you must get involved. Many years of experience with community groups and committees has taught me that 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.

If elected I know I can work with councillors and the state government; council staff and ratepayers. Communication issues and personality clashes have plagued our current council. We need to be practical, not personal, to make progress.

I appreciate that some councillors have struggled to be heard, a source of great frustration to them and their supporters. It has never been said of me that I struggle to be heard! I believe I’m a walking, talking, smile and promotional campaign for Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays.

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.

I will be submitting the Ratepayers Assessment to your electoral committee for their consideration, without bias.

Dan Van Blarcom

4946 4131