General News
27 May, 2024
The Nationals’ leader hears from locals
Leader of The Nationals, David Littleproud dropped into Maryborough last week, alongside Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster. During their two day visit over May 23 and 24, the pair had the opportunity to meet with residents at The Hub and tour local...
Leader of The Nationals, David Littleproud dropped into Maryborough last week, alongside Member for Mallee Dr Anne Webster.
During their two day visit over May 23 and 24, the pair had the opportunity to meet with residents at The Hub and tour local facilties like the Clarendon Medical Clinic and Sonac.
Dr Webster said it was integral to hear about local concerns from residents.
“One of the things regional people experience is the feeling they are not heard, and it is very important to me that people in my electorate know that I take them seriously and that David takes them seriously,” she said.
Mr Littleproud echoed Dr Webster’s sentiments, and said his visit was worthwhile.
“Maryborough is a cracking place, it is about the third or fourth time that I have visited, it’s about the size of the town I grew up in,” he said.
“Anne as the local member wanted me to come particularly to listen to some of the locals about their concerns in the community.”
Mr Littleproud said his talks with residents highlighted a number of issues.
“We particularly heard about the energy transmission lines planned across Mallee and the impact they have had on residents, we think there is a better and more sensible way of involving nuclear, gas and renewable energy that isn’t on prime agriculture land,” he said.
“We believe there should be transparency and fairness in prices from the farm gate to your plate in competition, you have to make sure there are guardrails that actually protect consumers and suppliers from the power of big supermarkets.
“We have also been able to see some doctors who have had some challenges in finding [additional staff] in being able to work here — we want to make sure we get healthcare right.”
Mr Littleproud also said he appreciates the support The Nationals receive from Mallee residents — a seat they have held since 1949.
“We never take [it] for granted and we will keep working to [deserve] it,” he said.
