By Jeremy Sollars
The Greens have endorsed Toowoomba schoolteacher Antonia van Geuns as their candidate for our seat of Southern Downs at the next state election.
Speculation is rife about when ALP Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk will call the next Queensland election, which is not due until March next year but could be held as late as next May under current electoral rules.
But many political observers believe the premier will go to the polls before Christmas, which means an election could be called anytime in the next few weeks.
A statement released by Antonia van Geuns last week outlines her teaching experience and political aspirations as a Greens representative.
“I have lived in Toowoomba for the last 34 years, where I taught secondary school science with a special interest in environmental studies,” she said.
“Since my early days, I have consistently been interested in and advocated for natural environments, Indigenous rights and the arts.
“I actively engage in protection of natural ecosystems, solar energy production, backyard food production, promoting self-determination and respect for First Nations people, accepting refugees and celebrating multiculturalism.
“I am committed to reducing climate change – advocating for renewable alternatives to coal mining, defending free speech, peace and ensuring government is free from the influence of multi-national and corporate money deals.
“I am motivated to foster an awareness of our place in the natural world while establishing compassion and fairness for all. I am an unapologetic defender of natural environments, quiet spaces, nourishment of individuals and champion appreciation of small things.
“I am a campaigner for ethically based government policy, and believe everybody has the right to a sense of place, home ownership, intergenerational equity, free education and health.
“I advocate for community concerns and improved strength of local legislation to improve self-determination of local communities.”
In the Southern Downs electorate Antonia van Geuns will go up against LNP candidate James Lister, One Nation’s Josh Coyne and independent Rob Mackenzie.
The ALP is yet to announce its Southern Downs candidate.
