The president of the Kawana Chamber of Commerce has announced he will contest the Sunshine Coast Council elections in March, with “an understanding of the challenges communities face”.
Alister Eiseman is set to nominate for Division 3, which includes suburbs of Caloundra and Kawana such as Aroona, Bokarina, Birtinya, Currimundi, Little Mountain, Meridan Plains, Warana and Wurtulla.
Mr Eiseman has worn several hats on the Sunshine Coast, including a role as a manager within local business (branch manager at Pacific Motor Group) and holding board positions with local schools and charities. He became the president of the Kawana Chamber of Commerce this year.
Mr Eiseman said his links with community groups gave him a better understanding of the challenges locals face.
“It’s not just a duty for me: it’s a passion that has driven me to work alongside local community groups,” he said.
“These roles have deepened my understanding of the challenges and opportunities that our communities face.”
Mr Eiseman said he was eager to listen to and advocate for locals’ priorities
“Our region is growing rapidly, however we must protect the lifestyle of our residents,” he said.
He said that suitable long-term, fit-for-purpose public transport; transparent and accountable public consultation; and protecting beaches, parks and waterways were key priorities within his campaign, along with supporting local business and community organisations.
“I am committed to working with other elected officials cooperatively to achieve positive outcomes for our region,” he said.
“This includes road network upgrades, the Sunshine Coast Stadium masterplan – where local grassroots sporting clubs have been left out of public consultation – and continuing to advocate for the Sunshine Coast heavy passenger rail: the largest and most transformative infrastructure project ever proposed for our region. This is essential for the entire region, but critical for residents in Division 3.”
Mr Eiseman said it was also important for the region to remain an economic powerhouse, while addressing cost-of-living pressures.
Candidate nominations officially open on January 29, with local government elections to be held on March 16.
Mr Eiseman said he would consider his future with the chamber if he was successful and would step down from his management position at PMG.
“I will continue to hold both positions until the election. Following the election, I will seek feedback from chamber executive regarding my position as president,” he told Sunshine Coast News.
“Regarding my position with Pacific Motor Group, I have been with PMG for over 11 years, and we have had a great relationship. While I would stand down from my management position, there will always be a great relationship and an opportunity for me to continue to work with the business in the future in some capacity as required.
“Most importantly, if I win at the election, I commit that my focus and priority will be the constituents in Division 3 and ensuring I represent them and their priorities strongly.”
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