A Word From Wayde

The crushing season is now well underway across the Herbert and surrounding districts. Photo credit: Wayde Chiesa MP’s Offices

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By Wayde Chiesa MP, Member For Hinchinbrook

The crushing season is now well underway across the Herbert and surrounding districts, and I know it has not been without its challenges.  

Our sugar industry is a huge part of the Hinchinbrook electorate – supporting local families, businesses and communities and driving our regional economy. I know the challenges our farmers face, but I hope the crush is progressing well and that growers, harvesting crews, mill workers and everyone involved across the industry can have a safe and productive remainder of the season.  

Next week I also return to Parliament, and community safety will remain firmly on my agenda.  

During the by-election, I made a commitment to fight for stronger bail laws and I have continued to hear loud and clear from people across Hinchinbrook that more needs to be done.  

Adult Crime, Adult Time was an important first step and we are starting to see it make a difference. But too many offenders are still being granted bail, breaching their conditions and going on to commit further offences.  

Bail is a privilege. If someone is given bail and commits another offence while out in the community, there must be consequences.  

That is why I have continued to advocate for stronger Breach Bail, Go to Jail laws. As these reforms progress, I will continue making sure the voice of the Hinchinbrook community is heard in Brisbane.  

Tuesday 18th of August also marks Vietnam Veterans’ Day, an important opportunity to recognise the service and sacrifice of the Australians who served during the Vietnam War, and to acknowledge their families and those veterans who are still very much part of our communities today.  

It is particularly fitting that applications are currently open for the Queensland Government’s Honouring our Veterans Grants Program.  

Funding is available to eligible organisations for projects including upgrades to facilities and memorials and initiatives that preserve and share our military history.  

We are fortunate to have strong RSLs, veterans’ groups and community organisations throughout the Hinchinbrook electorate that work hard to preserve this history and support our veterans. Applications close on Friday 4th September, and I encourage local organisations with a suitable project to have a look at the program.  

Whether it is backing our agricultural industries, making our communities safer, supporting our veterans or fighting for better roads and services, my job is to make sure the issues that matter to our communities are heard.  

There is plenty of work ahead, and as Parliament returns, I will continue making sure Hinchinbrook has a strong voice and a seat at the table in Brisbane.

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