Vanessa Hall
Editor
WITH the upcoming federal election yet to be called, the campaigning has well and truly unofficially kicked off with independent candidates across the region stating they are here to try and offer something different within safe Sunshine Coast conservative seats such as Fairfax.
Using the colour teal to differentiate themselves from the traditional blue and red of the major parties, the ‘teals’ have hit the ground running in 2025, and candidate for Fairfax Francine Wigg wants to firmly state that she is truly independent.
Claims that the teals are actually just an unofficial party backed by climate change group ‘Climate 200’ have been denied with Ms Wigg stating the group provided initial start-up funding, but that is all.
“Climate 200 does not control my policies or decisions—I am accountable only to the voters of Fairfax.
“I am an independent candidate, not a member of any political party or movement.”
Founded in the lead-up to the 2019 federal election, Climate 200 states that they are a “community crowd-funded initiative that supports political candidates committed to a science-based response to the climate crisis; restoring integrity to politics; and advancing respect and safety for women.”
Their ‘team’ is made up of well-known names such as Convenor Simon Holmes a Court and Advisory Council members, including former Liberal Member for Wentworth John Hewson, former Independent MPs Tony Windsor and Rob Oakeshott, and former Australian Democrats Senator for SA Meg Lees.
Climate 200 clearly states that they are not a political party and do not select candidates, speak for candidates or dictate policies.
“We simply give strong community campaigns a leg up with funding and support,” the Climate 200 website states.
Ms Wigg says that her campaign is funded by many.
“I adhere to strict donation policies, going above and beyond the Australian Electoral Commission’s requirements to ensure transparency and integrity. I have over 250 people in the electorate who have donated to the campaign.”
NUCLEAR?
A likely big issue at the next election will be meeting zero-emissions energy targets and the use of nuclear power as a viable form of clean energy.
Ms. Wiig called out sitting Fairfax Member and Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Ted O’Brien’s push for nuclear energy, saying it lacks proper consultation with Fairfax residents.
“Ted O’Brien has been spruiking nuclear energy nationally without engaging our community.
“Where was the consultation or opportunity for locals to express their views? I am open to supporting any policy that delivers real solutions to our energy and climate crises, but we need cheaper, cleaner energy now.”
The LNPs public nuclear policy states, “on coming to government, the Coalition will lift the moratorium on nuclear technology and establish a civil nuclear programme in Australia.”
A spokesperson for Ted O’Brien said that they want to use all forms of energy.
“Our plan is for a balanced energy mix including more renewables and more gas, and as coal retires it will be replaced with nuclear.”
The LNP website further states, “zero-emissions nuclear plants will be owned by the Federal Government, and we will form partnerships with the most experienced nuclear companies in the world to develop and operate the plants.”
“Our zero-emissions nuclear energy programme will consist of two phases: starting with two establishment projects in the mid-2030s followed by a buildout of projects through to 2050.”
The plan shows seven proposed locations across Australia, including the Tarong Power Station, which is 200 km southwest of the Sunshine Coast.
The LNP states, “these locations are sites of former or current coal plants, and they have the technical attributes needed for a zero-emissions nuclear plant, including transmission infrastructure, cooling water capacity and a skilled workforce.”
Ms Wiig shared concerns about a proposed reactor two and a half hours from Coolum.
“Our region deserves a thorough assessment of the risks and impacts before any decision is made.”
LOCAL TEAL SUPPORT
People are now showing their support for Francine via a teal-coloured bird.
“One of our most active supporter groups, the Coolum Hub, is deeply engaged in the local community and they have been instrumental in grassroots initiatives such as Bike Ride for Francine and were the driving force behind the creation of our campaign mascot – Emmaline the Egret, which is making a splash across the Sunshine Coast,” Francine said.
Ms Wiig believes that with independent representation, the region can prosper and have a safe and clean energy future.
“Independent representatives have already achieved great outcomes for Australians, including billions wiped off student debt, strong climate action, better wages for childcare workers, and new rules to stop multinationals from avoiding tax.
“Our region is diverse and full of potential, but political games and neglect have held us back. As an independent, I will answer only to the people of Fairfax.”
What are your thoughts on the upcoming federal election? Why not share those thoughts via a letter to the editor. Please email – editor@coolumadvertiser.com.au