A DRAMATIC increase in respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, accidental injuries and mental health conditions will all put enormous pressure on our health system unless real action is taken on climate change.

That was the dire warning at Sunday’s campaign launch by Independent candidate for the Federal seat of Cowper, Carolyn ‘Caz’ Heise.

“The northern campaign launch for Caz4Cowper was a huge success on Sunday,” Caz told News Of The Area.

“I’m heartened by the community support for me as their Independent candidate but also sense that Cowper is ready for a grassroots change.

“There is definitely a growing dissatisfaction in our community and across Australia with the current state of federal politics and party politicians.

“Only an Independent can represent the voice of the community as a first priority.

“Our Southern launch is being held in Port Macquarie on Sunday 6 March, there is much ground swell there too.

“I really believe the time is right for Cowper voters to rise up, speak out and take positive action for our futures by voting 1 – Caz4Cowper.

“We can do this.”

A crowd of more than 200 enthusiastic people heard Dr Jon Ferguson endorse Caz’s as the best person to lead the fight for change in climate policy and create better outcomes for Cowper.

“Climate change is already impacting on the health of people in Cowper,” Dr Ferguson said.

“In the last few years, we’ve experienced deadly bushfires, drought, flood and wild storms, and they have had not just enormous economic costs but they have also put an incredible strain on health resources.

“We need someone of Caz’s vast medical experience and business background to find political solutions which protect us and our way of life.”

Caz, a nurse and health services administrator who was a former Director of Nursing and Midwifery at Coffs Harbour Health Campus said it was time to take advantage of the opportunities which came with real action on climate change.

“The people of Cowper have everything to gain and nothing to lose from a quick transition away from coal,” she said.

“Switching to renewables will drive power prices down for households, business and industry, and give us the opportunity to create new industry sectors locally requiring well paid and skilled employees.

“Ditching coal isn’t in the interests of the parties which take donations from coal companies, but it’s the key to protecting and enhancing the way of life we enjoy here in our communities of choice.”

A heartfelt and deeply personal endorsement from Gumbaynggirr elder Aunty Bea Ballangarry drew a warm response from the crowd of supporters.

“I am humbled by Aunty Bea’s wisdom and support,” Caz said.

“I will be an honest advocate for everyone in Cowper and I will always work with and for our communities with respect and integrity.

“It is time to change the way politics is done.

“It is time to put people first and end the influence of big business and big polluters on our lives.

“It is time to stop the rorts and pork barrelling.

“It is time everyone was treated with respect.”

 

By Andrea FERRARI