By Jeremy Sollars
Goondiwindi councillor Rob Mackenzie has confirmed he will contest the seat of Southern Downs at the next state election as an independent.
The announcement, in a statement released by Cr Mackenzie today, follows months of speculation over his plans to have a crack at State politics, with an election widely tipped to be called soon by ALP Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk.
It is understood Electoral Commission of Queensland Returning Officers all over Queensland have been instructed to commence preparations for a poll in their respective electorates in recent weeks.
Cr Mackenzie will stand against endorsed LNP candidate James Lister, who will replace Lawrence Springborg as the party’s candidate for Southern Downs, with Mr Springborg to retire at the next State election and being widely rumoured to be eyeing a tilt at the Senate.
One Nation and the ALP are yet to announce candidates for Southern Downs.
Cr Mackenzie – a former LNP member who was unsuccessful in securing the party’s endorsement for Southern Downs and quit as a result – told the Free Times the people of Southern Downs “deserve a better option to take their issues to government”.
“They deserve a choice away from the major parties who continue to take us for granted,” he said.
“With the impending retirement of Lawrence Springborg, I offer my thanks for your 28 years of service representing both Carnarvon and Southern Downs electorates.
“I wish you, Linda and family all the best for years to come and your next adventures.
“The void which will be left by Lawrence should be filled by someone with maturity, life experience, enthusiasm and passion for the region.
“I know I can be this person.”
Cr Mackenzie also runs security and home brewing businesses in Goondiwindi and comes from a fourth-generation local farming family.
He and his wife Stacey have two children – Brodie, 12, and Logan, 11 – and he is stepfather to Stacey’s 24-year-old son Jackson.
“As a current councillor on the Goondiwindi Regional Council and previously on the Waggamba Shire, I have a great foundation of knowledge on the challenges and opportunities which exist in regional communities,” Cr Mackenzie said.
“For 30 years I have been heavily involved in communities and politics across the entire region.
“I am ready to take this knowledge and stand up for the region as your state member – your independent state member. I will not be curtailed by party politics, I will fight for every individual and I will truly be independent.
“The decision to run has not come lightly. One of the reasons I know this region well is because I was involved in a political party for many years.
“I, like many, could not believe the ‘shenanigans’ which occurred when trying to find a candidate to replace Lawrence. It was an experience which has not left me bitter, it has left me wiser.
“I could not be the Teflon person they sought because I am a real person.
“I am down to earth, hardworking and honest. My friends and family, who are giving me 100 per cent support, will vouch for this. I also think you will, too, once we have had the opportunity to have a chat and learn from each other.
“Southern Downs is ready for a new chapter. Help me put the spotlight on the greatest part of this state and help me get to Queensland Parliament. We are about to be heard.”
