Warwick resident Yve Stocks will run for election as a Councillor in the upcoming Southern Downs Regional Council election.
“My aims are to keep the charm and history intact as this is the very thing which attracts old and new residents alike; positive growth and employment, great education for our youth, and health facilities for all,” Ms Stocks said.
“In general, a wonderful place to live and play, but not at the expense of the underlying fabric that holds it all together,” she said.
“Wineries, heritage, festivals, horse events, motorsport and other sporting fixtures are our big drawcards.
“That means Warwick, Stanthorpe, Dalveen, Killarney, Yangan, Allora, and let’s not forget the smaller villages of Pratten, Leyburn, Tannymorel, Emu Vale, Swanfels and Maryvale. They all have something to offer!
“Events such as the rodeo, Jumpers and Jazz, Apple and Grape, Opera and Jazz in the Vineyard, the Leyburn Sprints, need continued support.
“Whether you realise it or not, we are all in the ‘tourism business’ in the whole Southern Downs region. Our local economy depends on it.
“The council should be run as a successful business, by people who have had experience in business.
“A budget must be managed prudently, so we have enough to go around.
“The council needs to simplify the process of applications, and not be seen as obstructive. Sure, there are strict guidelines in place for development, and rightly so.
“We must ensure that infrastructure upgrades are made as required and funding is available. We don’t want it to get to the decrepit stage, where a bandaid fix is all that we can afford.
“We need to work together as a team, and be forward-thinking. We can achieve positive results if all fellow councillors pull together.
“I am a firm supporter of the proposed rail link to Brommelton near Beaudesert, and thence to the Port of Brisbane. A parallel highway link surely would also be a good idea,” she said.
“Our farmlands and food bowl must not be exploited by mining. Appropriate use is very important. The ecomonic benefits of mining in our region need to be examined very closely.
“Do we want mining at the risk of losing everything the Darling Downs produces?”
In regards to amalgamation, Ms Stocks said “it’s done; let’s get on with the job.
“We must look at the “big picture”. Forget the ‘them and us’ attitude. Together we can work so much better. The good of the whole region is far more important than bickering amongst us.
“I can be contacted on 0417 620 648 or my website yvestocks.com.au,” she said.