Deputy to run for mayor

NOOSA Deputy Mayor

Frank Wilke will run for mayor at the March 2024 Local Government Elections.

Cr Wilkie said he has decided to throw his hat in the ring after Mayor Clare Stewart signalled her intention to run for the state seat of Noosa.

“It is an early call, but In light of the recent events, I wanted to offer the community and organisation a sense of continuity and stability up to and beyond the March 2024 elections.

“It is not the only factor, but I am hoping our community will understand that experience in the field of local government does count.”

The former journalist served as a Noosa councillor in 2007-08 prior to amalgamation, from 20142016 after de-amalgamation and as deputy mayor since 2016.

Cr Wilkie said since de-amalgamation, Noosa has been constantly adapting to pressures brought by rapid and relentless change, which is only accelerating.

“Now more than ever, we need our council to hold fast to core principles while improving delivery of quality services and protecting the natural assets and low-key lifestyle we all love.

“Noosa is a community first and a destination second. If we look after the things residents value first, then by default it will also be a great place to visit.”

Cr Wilkie said he has a strong record of support for the Noosa Planning Scheme and evidence-based initiatives that protect Noosa’s beaches, rivers, waterways and open spaces and projects fostering economic innovation.

“In recent years, we’ve seen record voting against the Noosa Planning Scheme and evidence-based environmental projects, fortunately by a slim minority. With so many pressures seeking to undermine what Noosa is, we don’t have the latitude for that now.”