The countdown to the federal election on May 3 is continuing, with pre-polling also in full swing.
Early voting centres opened after the Easter long weekend and more than 230,000 voters were in and out by midday on the first day. About 5.6 million people voted early at the 2022 federal election.
The electoral commission has 570 early voting centres throughout the country. People can vote early in person or by post if unable to do so on election day because of distance, travel, work, illness, caring duties or other reasons.
To help voters decide, Sunshine Coast News has asked the candidates for the Sunshine Coast electorates of Fairfax and Fisher to share no more than 100 words on three questions. In today’s part two, they were asked: How will you engage with constituents to ensure their voices are heard?
You can read part one here. Keep reading SCN in the coming days as we present the third and final part of the Q&A.
Fairfax
Beatrice Marsh – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation
Francine Wiig – Independent: I believe representation starts with listening. Throughout this campaign, I’ve met people at markets, attended Chamber of Commerce events, involved in kitchen table conversations, and stood on doorsteps hearing what matters most. That won’t stop if I’m elected. I’ll hold regular community forums, be available for meetings across the electorate, and provide open, honest updates on my work. I’ll also ensure my team is visible and accessible year-round, not just during elections. I’ll create multiple channels for people to contribute ideas and raise concerns, so the policies I pursue in Canberra reflect the real priorities of our community.
Rhys Sanderson – Family First Party Australia
Sue Etheridge – Queensland Greens: The Greens approach politics with a focus on long-term community engagement, not just during elections. Our MPs don’t just hold office; we create vibrant community hubs that encourage collaboration and connection. True democracy is about consistent, open dialogue, and as your representative, I’ll be transparent, accessible, and always ready to listen to your concerns. This isn’t about personal gain—it’s about understanding the needs of the people I serve. By fostering spaces for real conversation, we can work together to build a fairer, more sustainable future for everyone. Let’s create lasting change, one conversation at a time.
Naomi McQueen – Australian Labor Party: If elected, I’ll be out and about in the community, at schools, markets, and events, listening to locals and acting on what matters. I’ll prioritise transparency and accountability, keeping in touch with local organisations and everyday residents. Engagement shouldn’t stop after the election, it’s a two-way street, I’ll be a present, approachable representative who listens and follows through.
Paul McKeown – Independent: During the campaign, I have heard the voices of the electorate, and if elected – my ears and heart will not be closed. The parties think they have all the answers and that they know best. I don’t think that way. I have found the electorate to be full of clear-thinking people with good ideas (what a great resource!), and I’ve got some ideas too! My plan, if elected is to facilitate an open conduit of information and ideas between me and my constituents, so that together we can get the best out of my advocacy for Fairfax and the nation.
Ted O’Brien – Liberal National Party: Serving the community starts with listening. I regularly hold mobile offices across the electorate and encourage locals to visit, call or email anytime. My office provides hands-on support every day – helping people navigate services, solve problems and access what they’re entitled to. I take those local stories and concerns directly to Canberra. Grassroots connections shape everything I do. I’m here to serve, and I never take that responsibility lightly.
Gregory Ryzy – Trumpet of Patriots
Fisher
Keryn Jones – Independent: This campaign has been built on listening – thousands of conversations at doors, markets, forums and street stalls. That won’t stop if I’m elected. I’ll keep working with the community through roundtables, citizens’ assemblies, reference groups, and real-time feedback on key issues – turning local insight into national advocacy. I’ll also launch a volunteer program so that people from Fisher can come to Canberra, attend briefings, and experience democracy in action. As an Independent, I answer only to the people of Fisher. I’ll keep showing up, making space for genuine voices, and working with – not talking at – our community. That’s the kind of politics we deserve.
Renay Wells – Queensland Greens: Like Max Chandler-Mather, I believe in people-powered politics. I’ll be an active, accessible MP – holding regular listening posts, supporting grassroots initiatives, and using my platform to amplify local voices. As a renter, small business founder, and advocate, I know firsthand the challenges our community faces. I’ll work alongside you – not above you – to make sure your concerns shape policy. With the Greens, it’s not about winning power – it’s about sharing it.
Andrew Wallace – Liberal National Party: I love the Sunshine Coast and I’ve worked hard to make our community the best place to learn, earn and retire. I can’t do that without the support of the Fisher community. I’ve held over 500 Listening Posts since 2016; dozens of jam-packed public forums on issues like defence, mental health, and aged care; and thousands of community meetings and one-on-ones. I’ll continue listening to locals, fighting for our fair share, and helping vulnerable residents navigate government services. And I’ll do what other candidates can’t; I’ll deliver real and tangible results for the people who call the Sunshine Coast home.
Denis Fricot – Trumpet of Patriots
Morrison Lakey – Australian Labor Party: As your representative, I’ll be based in the community. I’ll listen to locals, small businesses, and community groups, and take their ideas straight to Parliament. Advocacy means more than words – it means action. I’ll push for targeted investment in regional health care, education, transport, and infrastructure, and I’ll work to deliver practical outcomes that matter to our community. Whether it’s better internet and phone coverage, support for our primary producers and small businesses, or action on housing and cost-of-living pressures, I’ll ensure our region’s unique needs are part of every national conversation.
James Pidgeon – Gerard Rennick People First
Bronwen Bolitho – Family First Party Australia
Benjamin Kelly – Pauline Hanson’s One Nation: I’ll hold regular town hall and community forums across Fisher to hear directly from residents. An online platform will allow constituents to provide feedback on key issues and proposed bills. I’ll maintain an open-door policy at my electorate office, ensuring accessibility. Social media and newsletters will keep everyone informed and engaged. By collaborating with local groups and businesses, I’ll address community priorities. My commitment is to represent all voices, not just the loudest, ensuring Fisher’s concerns shape my actions in Canberra for fair, transparent representation.
