Widening gap between pollies and the people triggers Div 5 run

Div 5 candidate Richard Bruinsma.

Small business owner, freelance journalist and former political staffer Richard Bruinsma will campaign as an independent for Division 5 in the 2024 Sunshine Coast Council election.

Mr Bruinsma said he was nominating because of the ever-widening gap between everyday people and politicians. He also held concerns about the lack of action on the cost of living.

“I am fortunate to have had life and career experiences so far that have allowed me to chat to literally thousands of people in Division 5 over the years, including with local business owners, everyday residents, people from all backgrounds, and politicians,” Mr Bruinsma said. 

“This is a beautiful region, I love the people, over the years I’ve visited and written about every town, helped plant trees locally, spoken and supported local businesses, hiked in local bushland, competed in local fun runs, I’ve had thousands of conversations with local people about concerning issues, and I don’t see anyone else who I feel stands out for the job.

“I’ve worked closely with local people, I’ve worked in three federal political offices, I understand the needs and challenges of local life, and I know the demands, expectations and challenges associated with politics.

“I know the local communities, I understand the aspirations of local people, and I feel obliged to use all my knowledge, my various skills and my commitment to people, to make a difference to the communities around where I live.”

Mr Bruinsma said key issues in Division 5 now are the rising cost of living, the speed of development in the electorate and the need for appropriate infrastructure, including roads, and the growing gap between politicians and people generally.

Mr Bruinsma said he would doorknock  regularly  to listen to what people have to say, and will continue speaking with key community leaders and organisations, to understand the many important priorities of the people of Division 5.

“Political parties and their internal focus are among the factors helping create that widening gap between representatives and the people they are supposed to help. It’s very risky that this is potentially creeping into the Sunshine Coast local elections,” Mr Bruinsma said.

“That gap can only be closed at the local level by an on-the-ground representative who is eager to mingle in the community regularly and work to make local life better.  

Cr Johnston running again

Incumbant Div 5 Cr Winston Johnston has indicated he will run again.  To date he will face challlenges from Mr Bruinsma and Greens candidate Tracy Burton.