Former Attorney-General To Run

Kerry Shine announces candidacy for Toowoomba Regional Council with pledge to stop rising water costs.
Former Toowoomba North MP, Kerry Shine has announced he’s running for Toowoomba Regional Council at the 2020 Local Government elections (but not for mayoralty).

Mr Shine said he has the experience and proven track record to deliver for the Toowoomba Region on Council.

“The experience I can bring to the table includes 20 years in small business, 11 years as a Member of Parliament and time as a Senior Cabinet Minister in Queensland,” Mr Shine said.

“During my time as an MP, I was able to deliver $1.6 billion for the Toowoomba Region, including $180 million to secure our water supply.”

“Despite the record drought, Toowoomba is better positioned due to the construction of the pipeline supplying Toowoomba I secured in 2009.”

Mr Shine believes the rising cost of water will be a key issue this election.  “Like so many residents, I’m concerned with the recent increase to the water access charge, it’s now over $650 a year for the average ratepayer †compared to $235 in Brisbane,” Mr Shine said.

“I know it’s getting harder for families to afford, that’s why I won’t support any increases to the water access charge.  Instead I’ll fight for a better deal from the State Government using my experience as a former Water Minister, as well as cutting unnecessary spending from Council’s budget.”

Mr Shine also announced a listening tour, pledging to knock on as many doors as possible before the March 2020 poll.