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David Lewis

Phone: +61 429 860 190

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24.01.2022 The increasing risk of spreading coronavirus infection through the council election process is becoming more and more apparent. Virtually every adult across Queensland will be walking past election workers, having close contact with electoral staff, and using polling booths and pencils that have just been used by scores of other people. The government can avert a calamity by acting immediately to change the ballot to a full postal ballot. We have just seen the Electoral Com...mission mail enrolment cards to every elector. They can surely do the same with ballot papers. If the election goes ahead as planned, the public, the candidates and their helpers, and particularly the electoral staff are at massive risk. I have sent emails to our MPs and others urging the state government to show some leadership here. In the meantime, I am suggesting a protocol for all candidates to minimise the risk. I suggest we all agree to have one table for each division set up at the polling booth, clearly marked, where each candidate can have a bundle of how to vote cards available for the voters to peruse or collect.That way, the public don't have to interact with dozens of candidates and their helpers. I would appreciate it if all candidates could contact me at my council email, ie [email protected] or phone me to confirm/discuss. But this will only work if all are going to agree. But the better scheme is a full postal ballot.

22.01.2022 Some very useful information here about our Local Disaster Management Group. This may answer some questions asked in relation to a recent post of mine.

22.01.2022 One of the pleasant if solemn activities of a councillor is to represent the Council at ANZAC Day ceremonies, and lay a wreath. In successive years last term, I attended the dawn service at Pialba, then Tiaro, Brooweena and Poona. Apart from the value of the service itself, it also provided an opportunity to get to know better people in other parts of the region. This year of course, there was no such opportunity. But during the week I heard on the radio a lady coaching her d...aughter on violin, and that gave me an idea. So at 6am, we went out on our porch, With Susan candle in hand, I played the Last Post on clarinet, the music just sufficiently illuminated by the dawn and the candle. In deference to buglers and other brass players, I waited to hear if anyone else was doing it, but there was nothing but bird call. So I began. It was a somewhat nervous rendition. At that hour, and on such an occasion, one doesn't want to disturb the neighbours with bad notes. I had only practised a couple of times last night, and haven't been playing much for years, but it is a simple enough piece of music, and I think it was ok. The Last Post is normally followed by a minute's silence, then Rouse and Reveille. I hadn't practised those, hadn't downloaded the music. At the end of the minute I felt everyone within earshot will be depending on that. But just in time, a chorus of kookaburra laughter came to the rescue. Thanks and acknowledgements to the ANZAC Day Commemoration Committee for the free download of the music. Lest We Forget.

21.01.2022 The indefatigable Dave McLeod. Note his comments about accessing the old Walligan siding site, even if you are not a bike rider.

21.01.2022 Welcome to World Sea Turtle Day! Like all "World Days", the purpose is to raise awareness about a specific topic. The 16th of June was chosen to cele...brate World Sea Turtle Day as a tribute to pioneer Sea Turtle conservationist & researcher, Archie Carr, as it is the date of his birthday. Dr Archie Carr was trailblazer for Sea Turtle awareness, science & recovery projects. ... More can be read about him & his incredible efforts & accomplishments here - https://conserveturtles.org/about-stc-archie-carr-tribute/ Of the 7 known species of Sea Turtles in the world, 6 occur around Australia. Sadly all are listed as Threatened Species locally, nationally & internationally, meaning their populations have / are declining significantly, & they are at high risk of future demise & population decreases continuing, without concerted conservation efforts & help. In the Fraser Coast region, the most 'commonly' seen species & the most frequent into rescue / care are Green Sea Turtles, followed by Loggerhead Turtles, then Hawksbill Turtles. The infographic in this post shows the 7 different species, & includes their current Queensland Conservation Status, on the Threatened Species List, & the maximum carapace (top shell) length & body weight known for each one. The following list shows the Queensland then Australian, Threatened Species category listings for each of the Marine Turtles. Vulnerable status is 1 step before Endangered, & Endangered status is only a hop to Extinct status. GREEN : Vulnerable / Vulnerable LOGGERHEAD : Endangered / Endangered HAWKSBILL : Endangered / Vulnerable OLIVE RIDLEY : Endangered / Endangered FLATBACK : Vulnerable / Vulnerable LEATHERBACK : Endangered / Endangered ------------------------ ** KEMP'S RIDLEY : Critically Endangered status Internationally (not found in Australian waters) Over the past 7 days, it has been Sea Turtle Week, aptly running from World Oceans Day through to World Sea Turtle Day. If you would like to read more about some (or all) of these amazing Sea Turtle species, the Marine Society UQ fb page has been doing some great daily information posts about Marine Turtles over the past week - https://www.facebook.com/UQMarineStudentGroup/ Collecting data & information about Sea Turtles - alive or dead, is vital in helping with conservation & protection efforts for them both now & into the future. Marine Turtle strandings or concerns can be reported to the Department of Environment on 1300 130 372 & follow the prompts (or alternatively Wildlife Rescue Fraser Coast on 41213146), both numbers are 24/7 contacts. #marinelife #savehabitatasavespecies #biodiversity #noseanome #keepitclean #savewildlife #saveouroceans #marineconservation #oceanconservation #oneplanet #wildliferescue #frasercoast #interdependence #marine #environment #interconnected #compassionmatters #eachonematters #seaturtles #seaturtleconservation #wildliferescuefrasercoast #queensland #goslowforthosebelow #threatenedspecies

20.01.2022 More good information on what assistance is available from council.

19.01.2022 One of my central themes for some time now, and in this election, has been better urban development. My ideas are simple enough. We need street trees, more than ever. Look at any suburban street and see where the cars park, and people stop to chat in the shade. Trees make walking so much more pleasant. If that means we need wider footpaths, so be it. We need pedestrian and cycle ways, with appropriate crossings.... In large subdivisions, we need to look for opportunities to save existing trees and vegetation, by allowing for some open space or corridors, and fit the engineering to save the vegetation. This way we save the years it takes for trees to reach maturity, we keep wildlife, and we provide insulation from noise and dust. Some developers think this will add to the cost, and are reluctant to embrace reform. But it doesn’t have to be bad news for developers or home owners. We can look at discounts on infrastructure charges where they incorporate better design. And we save rates by not having to retro-fit street trees, or re-vegetate our open spaces. We make the Fraser Coast a much better place to live and that attracts industry and jobs. One developer, sympathetic to my ideas, said to me recently: We need development, but there’s also this thing called community. I want to work with the industry to improve their product. The photos show a recent development where sadly we lost a lot of trees along the Murphy St frontage. I have followed this up. I am disappointed about the loss, but there is an offset provision for replanting. I have provided some suggestions for an extension of this replanting to include nearby developed streets, eg North St, (2nd and 3rd pics) and perhaps Burton Ct Park . Authorised by David Lewis 54 Lyons St, Point Vernon Hervey Bay for D Lewis (candidate).

19.01.2022 Yesterday I recorded a 5 minute election broadcast for Fraser Coast Community Radio, FM 107.5. This should be broadcast between 9 am and 12 noon this morning, on Trevor Franklin's show. So keep an ear out. In the broadcast I set out my reasons for seeking re-election, and outlined a few plans for the next term. This is a service FM 107.5 is providing to candidates in the public interest.... The team of volunteers at the station do a great job, and provide a wonderful community service. Best wishes to them. See the link below. Authorised by David Lewis 54 Lyons St, Point Vernon Hervey Bay for D Lewis (candidate). https://www.frasercoast.fm/

17.01.2022 Down to the last day, of a very odd election. Whatever the outcome, what a pleasure it has been to work with you all. More about that after the event. Below is the script of my broadcast on Community Radio this week. It sets out a summary of my major concerns, as much as one can do in 5 minutes. At the end, I speak briefly about the value of the arts, to the community and to the economy. I thought I'd add a couple of random pics of my involvement with the arts community. Talk...Continue reading

16.01.2022 Good evening dear friends Thank you all so much for your supportive comments. Very much appreciated. It hasn't hit the ECQ website yet, but the preference count was conducted today. In the end, I was fortunate enough to finish 134 votes in front.... There were a handful of declaration votes, which gave me a final primary lead of 109. Preferences added another 25. Which is not a lot, over something like 500+ preference votes. The election has been tough, and has provided a number of lessons, for me and I think for others too. It is not the time to go into detail, but I look forward to taking on board all that has been suggested over the election period. I am keen to work constructively with the whole community over the next four years. Thank you again to everyone who supported me. And indeed thanks to the whole community for your engagement in the civic process. Let's talk soon. Regards, David

16.01.2022 Work is about to start on refurbishment of Blackstump Park at Gatakers Bay. The picture is of a new miniature roadway for kids to have fun and learn about road rules at the same time. There will be a play unit with slides and ladders, and the sort of stuff kids love to clamber over; and a chimes, and a rope spinner. The expressions swing will be re-instated, as soon as new seats arrive. The originals were vandalised.... The new equipment will cater for a range of ages. I know it has been a while coming, but should be here soon. Then we just need to get over the health crisis so kids can get back to their playgrounds. Authorised by David Lewis 54 Lyons St, Point Vernon Hervey Bay for D Lewis (candidate).

15.01.2022 This is a part of the community consultation promised regarding the action proposed at Mant St, Point Vernon, relating to illegal poisoning of trees there. Can I urge those concerned about illegal tree poisoning, there or elsewhere on the Esplanade to participate in this survey.

15.01.2022 Another couple of interesting rail trail posts I am happy to share.

13.01.2022 I had proposed to defer any facebook comment until after the results were known, but since it’s dragging on a bit I want to thank everyone who helped me or sent me good wishes for the council election. Most I have contacted but if I missed you, my apologies. Special thanks of course to Susan who worked tirelessly, and offered heaps of advice, most of which I accepted; and to my friend Ross who was everywhere. And to all my friends who letter-boxed, twice, including Bridget... and Conor who came up from Brisbane on a weekend when one still could. And those who helped with publicity like facebook, or who graciously hosted a sign, or helped in other myriad ways. And to those who stopped at the street stalls to say hello, or otherwise wished me well. And of course all of those who gave me their vote! The latest ECQ advice is that preferences should be counted tomorrow (Wed). There may in addition be a small number of further declaration votes, ie where someone wasn’t on the roll but claims entitlement to vote. But that aside, I presently lead by 107. It’s a small lead, albeit larger than any in either this or the 2016 election. While it is some comfort, nothing is assured. I have no real information about the likely number of preferences or how they will flow. Should I be fortunate enough to be re-elected, I look forward to getting back to work we are still in caretaker, so our role is currently limited. If not, then I guess it will be a new chapter. Whichever, it has been a great privilege to serve the people of Div 6, and indeed the whole region, an experience I will always be grateful for. Thanks everyone.

11.01.2022 Early voting starts this morning - unless there is a late switch to postal voting. In any event, here is the info you need. Thanks all, please feel free to share!

10.01.2022 Well, yes, I agree it's not my most elegant photo, but these are unprecedented times... social distancing... and those campaign t-shirts! I decided to do a few street meets today, including one at Brew & View, Point Vernon. And some old and new friends dropped by. I have been setting up my venues so as not to impose on cafes and their patrons, so necessary at the moment. At a distance, people can come to me, and we can maintain the appropriate separation. In any event, this ...gives us all a chance to enjoy the open air and take advantage of the shade that tree preservation provides. I have suspended door-knocking, due to the health risks. Sorry if I didn't get to you, but the safety of the community is the priority. But if you see me, it's safe to give me a toot or a wave. Or maybe to stop and talk from a discreet distance. Authorised by David Lewis 54 Lyons St, Point Vernon Hervey Bay for D Lewis (candidate).

10.01.2022 Good to see. Hoping we can soon get some more kilometres constructed.

08.01.2022 This one has some great pics from the old Colton junction.

05.01.2022 COVID -19 is taking us into unknown territory, and Council is working hard to help meet the challenges. We called a Special Meeting last Friday which approved a suite of measures to help our community manage in this crisis. I will include a link to a media release which contains information on the details. And keep an eye on Council’s website. Right now we need councillors with wise heads and current experience, councillors who know where council is at, and who are across the... issues. We need to maintain core councillors who are working now, and can continue without interruption. We have worked hard to establish a stable council, and that gives us a solid basis for helping our community through and beyond this once in a lifetime threat. I met this morning with both Chair (Cr Light) and Deputy Chair (Cr Taylor) of the Local Disaster Management Group, and Deputy Mayor Cr Everard, before the LDMG met to consider their next moves. I expect more information on this to be released soon. There are lots of reasons to re-elect David Lewis as your councillor for Division 6, as I have been setting out in my election materials. The need to tackle the problems of this health crisis is one more. So I ask you, please re-elect me, and keep your council in safe hands. With due respect to other candidates, now is not the moment to experiment with the unknown. Just vote 1 David Lewis, at the top of the ballot paper. https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/-/council-approves-milli Authorised by David Lewis 54 Lyons St, Point Vernon Hervey Bay for D Lewis (candidate).

05.01.2022 Today, a little more on my plans for roads, crossings and footpaths. Ibis Blvd: I have already posted about the options I have been discussing for resolving the traffic issues at the shopping centre. The budget allows for $600,000 in 2020/21 to start work on this. I have also discussed with residents the need for a pedestrian crossing over Ibis, at the entrance to the suburb. This will link the existing footpaths on the east, just past Whimbrel, to the other side and on to th...e shops. See the photos. Widening of Islander Rd is also proposed for the 20/21 budget. I will be supporting that, and expect design will be completed for tenders later this year. I am seeking that the design include angle parking that works so well in Old Maryborough Rd (built with discretionary funds from Cr Taylor and me). In earlier posts I wrote of the need for crossings on the Esplanade (see pic) and Watson St, where each meets Beach Rd. It is imperative we provide safe passage for school kids especially. I will be asking for a study of the Tooth St/Old Maryborough Rd intersection. A roundabout may be needed, with a crossing as well. Extensive roadwork will be carried out as part of the Pialba CBD redevelopment under the Hinkler Deal, with Federal funding. Further footpaths are planned for Division 6. Pictured are new paths in Mant St and Corser St (still under construction). Residents are delighted with these. I am especially pleased that a renewed focus on trees has meant design around them, both aesthetically pleasing, and making the most of the shade. I will write separately about other road stuff at a later date. Cheers for now. Authorised by David Lewis 54 Lyons St, Point Vernon Hervey Bay for D Lewis (candidate).

01.01.2022 This from the Mary2Bay Rail Trail group. There are some terrific pictures and info on that site, showing some of the scenery and sadly fading but still extant infrastructure. One of the great things about rail trails is that they preserve our history, as well as providing excellent recreational opportunities. FCRC is working away on the project, and hopefully we can start some further development of sections soon - though major work isn't in the current year's budget. But hop...efully next year. What we can do this year is get in the ear of the state election candidates for both Hervey Bay and Maryborough. The project will move more quickly with state funding. Bundaberg recently received a $20M grant for their project. We need to catch the next train and get moving. (Disclaimer: these opinions are mine and not necessarily council policy.)

01.01.2022 Great outcome here. Soon after I started on council in 2016, long-term environmentalist Carol Bussey contacted me and asked me to find what had happened to the balance of the environmental levy council had previously charged, but had discontinued in the 2012-16 period. She was confident there was money still in that fund. Sure enough, some digging located about $1.2M unspent. Then exec manager Nigel Greenup prepared reports and made recommendations on how to use it, one of which was the acquisition of more environmental land. This is the result of that work. Thank you Carol, thank you Nigel, and thanks to all who have worked for this. Long may we enjoy it.