Manjimup residents had a chance to highlight their key priorities in front of Warren-Blackwood candidates last week at an event hosted by the Manjimup Chamber of Commerce.
The Meet The Candidates event was attended by more than 40 residents from Manjimup and surrounds, eager to have an opportunity to air their grievances, concerns and desires.
WA Labor MLA Jane Kelsbie, WA Liberal candidate Wade De Campo, WA Nationals candidate Bevan Eatts, WA Greens candidate Julie Marsh, and WA Legalise Cannabis Party candidate Aaron Peet were in attendance.
Each candidate was given 10 minutes to introduce themselves, their party, and their objectives, before chamber president Nathan Walter — the event’s facilitator — opened the forum for questions.
It was clear by the end of the night attendees had six key concerns: transport, environmental sustainability, housing, agriculture, health, and small business.
Resident Monica Radomiljac asked what each candidate would do to support farmers, while Jodi Johnston wanted to know how the candidates would combat the lack of public transport in Manjimup and surrounds.
Shire of Manjimup Cr Jade Darren wanted to know how each candidate would support small businesses.
Shire of Manjimup president Donelle Buegge said she would hold each candidate accountable for the infrastructure commitments made during their introductions.
While the candidates were quick to make jabs at each other, discussions were conducted respectfully.
Ms Kelsbie made it clear child care and the cost of living would be her key areas of focus should she be re-elected, while Mr De Campo said he would also focus on the cost of living, and improving local infrastructure.
Mr Eatts said a balanced Parliament was his goal, while his main focus would be returning Royalties for Regions — a National Party policy formed in 2008 — to its original intention of supporting economic, business and social development in regional WA.
Mr Peet said he intended to fight to legalise cannabis should he be elected, and highlighted the importance of hemp for economic and health gains.
Ms Marsh said her main aim would be to fix the “decades of neglect” by State politicians by pushing the Australian Greens’ policies, which were available on the party’s website.
The State election will be held on March 8.
https://thewest.com.au/news/south-west/manjimup-residents-make-top-6-priorities-clear-to-all-warren-blackwood-political-candidates-c-17696358
