In the vast expanse of North Queensland, among the stories of people who’ve lived and breathed its essence, one tale stands out—that of Andrew Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson. Born and raised in this region, Andrew’s journey has seen him transition from a third-generation tomato farmer to a potent political figure. His values, shaped by the land, his roles as a father, a small business owner, and a community leader, all contribute to his nuanced understanding of what his region needs.
Andrew’s commitment to his region isn’t a newfound political manoeuvre. As the previous Mayor of the Whitsundays, he fought tirelessly for his people through floods, cyclones, and other devastating events, orchestrating over $200 million in State and Federal funding to bolster the region’s resilience. His efforts spanned various sectors, paving the way for job creation on roads, in the construction industry, for the tourism sector, and for the farming community.
Now, as the LNP representative for Dawson, his hard-earned leadership skills and experience are being channelled to serve a broader community, from Townsville through to Mackay. One of his primary aims is to fight against unnecessary red and green tape, symbolising his commitment to simplifying processes for businesses and constituents alike. His advocacy doesn’t stop there. He pledged to hold the Federal Government accountable for the spiralling costs of energy, food, and overall cost of living, reflecting his acute awareness of the economic pressures faced by his constituents.
True to his roots, Andrew’s emphasis on supporting local farmers and fishers shines through. He acknowledges the importance of various sectors that fuel the regional economy, including mine workers, tourism operators, small business owners, retirees, and local families. His experiences, both personal and professional, allow him to empathise with the community’s needs, enabling him to devise targeted policies.
This empathetic and robust approach has become the cornerstone of Andrew’s initiatives and political stance. He consistently champions community causes, evident in his support for the “Days Around Dawson” photo competition and his efforts in securing federal funding for critical regional projects such as the Whitsunday Volunteer Marine Rescue (WVMR) and the AEIOU Foundation’s new facility.
Simultaneously, Andrew doesn’t shy away from scrutinising decisions he perceives as harmful to his community. His criticism of the Albanese Labor Government’s policies, including power price hikes, increased Working Holiday Maker (WHM) visa fees, and potential cuts to Dawson Councils’ federal support, underscores his dedication to holding power accountable.
Moreover, Andrew’s fiscal responsibility and his commitment to a sustainable future for Dawson are evident in his critiques of inflated taxes and levies, Labor’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) change, and the carbon tax. He also voiced his concerns over the Labor Government’s May 2023 budget, particularly their approach to rural and regional Australians and the cost-of-living crisis.
Despite these challenges, Andrew’s resolve remains unscathed. His support for the House Standing Committee on Industry, Science and Resources’ inquiry into advanced manufacturing and the Stronger Communities Programme signifies his unwavering commitment to bolstering the local economy and creating jobs.
Andrew Willcox’s story weaves a tale of dedication, tenacity, and a deep-seated love for his region. His transition from a tomato farmer to a trenchant advocate is a testament to his resolute commitment to Dawson. His actions ring louder than words, painting a picture of a man ready to stand by his constituents, come what may. Andrew’s journey, punctuated by his steadfast advocacy and visionary leadership, assures the people of Dawson that they have a reliable representative championing their interests.
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Andrew Willcox, Federal Member for Dawson, embodies commitment to North Queensland through a transition from tomato farming to influential political leadership, championing regional interests with empathy & determination. #TheIndianSunhttps://t.co/U1X7GgpP6f
— The Indian Sun (@The_Indian_Sun) August 10, 2023
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