A total of seven candidates will face off at the 2024 Queensland state election for the seat of Caloundra.
Early voting began on 14 October with all registered voters needing to have their ballot papers filled out by the end of the official voting day on 26 October.
Caloundra is one of the state’s most marginal seats and early poll results revealed a close race between LNP Candidate Kendall Morton and incumbent Labor MP Jason Hunt, with Greens candidate Dr Peta Higgs picking up a considerable number of early votes.
The full list of candidates is:
CALOUNDRA
1. Kendall Morton, LNP
2. Mike Jessop, Independent
3. Ben Storch, One Nation
4. Jason Hunt, Australian Labor Party
5. Peta Higgs, The Greens
6. Pamela Mariko, Animal Justice Party
7. Allison McMaster, Legalise Cannabis Queensland
For voters in Caloundra, it’s important to remember Queensland uses full preferential voting, meaning all candidates on the ballot must be numbered in order of preference for a valid vote.
Those who can’t make it on election day can opt for postal voting, though applications for these closed on October 14.
Additionally, voter turnout is compulsory, so failing to participate may result in a fine.
We asked some local businesspeople and community stalwarts to answer one important question as we head to the polls:
“What is the one issue in our community you would like to see addressed or improved by the next government?”
Murray Boyton – Rhythm Church & Cafe
It is my hope that the next elected government will take a proactive approach to addressing the cost of living in our community.
As a charity that serves the disadvantaged locally, we continually are looking at ways to engage and provide support for these households.
Our annual Christmas hamper appeal confirms the need for more support that continues to provide tangible help to those in need.
Caloundra Residents Association – Craig Humphrey – President
The Caloundra Residents Association (CRA)is calling on the next State Government to prioritise action in response to a significant breakthrough concerning Bribie Island’s infrastructure and environmental challenges.
“Bribie Island is an integral part of our community, and its health directly impacts us here, particularly in Caloundra, Golden Beach and Pelican Waters,” CRA President Craig Humphrey said.
“The next State government must recognise this connection and prioritise investments that benefit both areas.”
As the election approaches, candidates from various parties are being urged to address these pressing issues in their platforms.
“We need leaders who are willing to listen to our community and take the necessary steps to safeguard our future,” Mr Humphrey said.
Sunshine Coast Business Council (SCBC) – Chair Sandy Zubrinich
SCBC has consistently called for better planning at a regional level to unlock land supply critical to developing the level of housing stock required to support the Sunshine Coast’s growing population and to assist businesses attract talent to the region.
This requires genuine collaboration between the state and local government to support and deliver on the direction provided in the ShapingSEQ 2023 and SEQ Regional Plan.
Unless this happens quickly, the State will struggle to unlock the necessary economic activity required to deliver the infrastructure and economic prosperity now at risk.
