A Sunshine Coast Council employee who has worked closely with a range of people in the community is set to run for a seat at the chamber table.
Tim Burns has announced his candidacy to represent Division 3 at local elections in March.
The division includes suburbs of Caloundra and Kawana and is currently held by Peter Cox.
Mr Burns said he aimed to usher in an era of diverse, inclusive and sustainable opportunities, and he was eager to protect and enhance the region’s lifestyle.
“There is lots of change happening in council at this election and I believe that the next few years are critical for the long-term future of the Sunshine Coast,” he said via a media release.
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“We need council representatives who are passionate about people, opportunities and sustainable solutions, and who are not afraid to get in and do the hard work.”
Mr Burns has worked in community services for more than 20 years, including leading the Community Development team at Sunshine Coast Council for more than four years.
He said he had an understanding of the important matters facing the region and he believed he had the ability to navigate the processes of council decision-making.
“Through my leadership and advice to local projects such as the Rewired youth mental health festival, All Access Day at the Beach and the national award-winning Migrant Work Ready program, I have supported people and places to thrive in our community,” he said.
“Working closely with our young people, multicultural communities, people with disability and older people has deepened my appreciation for the contributions everyone can make to our Sunshine Coast way of life.
“I am committed to listening to the residents of Division 3 and advocating for initiatives to enhance the Coast’s enviable lifestyle into the future. This includes integrated transport solutions and diverse and affordable housing through the revised Planning Scheme.”
Mr Burns and his family have lived on the Sunshine Coast for more than 10 years.
His wife is a local state school deputy principal and they have two young adults.
Mr Burns is a keen surfer and is a member of the WindanSea Boardriders Club. He is also a team leader for the Disabled Surfers Association, founder of the Sunshine Coast Youth Council, former chair of the Meridan State College P&C, College Council and Chaplaincy Committee.
He pledged to work alongside local groups, including the Currimundi Catchment Care Group, local chambers of commerce as well as community and sporting clubs.
“I will commit to being accessible to all local residents and be a true community councillor advocating for and leading on behalf of the residents of Division 3,” he said.
