Caz4Cowper campaign launches in Coffs Harbour Coffs Coast Nambucca Valley by News Of The Area - Modern Media - October 25, 2024 Carolyn Heise (second from left) at her Federal campaign launch. MORE than 200 people were at the Jetty Beach House for the Coffs Harbour launch of Carolyn (Caz) Heise’s “Caz4Cowper” election campaign. Although the next Federal election can be held as late as 27 September, 2025, most pundits expect it to be much earlier. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone us – (02) 4981 8882. Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au Aunty Bea Ballangarry delivered the Welcome To Country and suggested that the traditional women’s place of Corambirra Point was an appropriate location for Ms Heise to launch her campaign. Ms Heise was then introduced by local identity Judith Fleming, who said that “with a grassroots campaign, with people working together, safe seats can change hands.” Ms Fleming said that Cowper has been neglected by the National Party because it has been a safe seat. She referred to the party’s opposition to the NBN, which has been a boon for regional areas. “Caz will represent us in Parliament, rather than a party’s interests,” Ms Fleming said. Clancy Barnard, Campaign Manager for Caz4Cowper, said the focus of the campaign is simple; it’s to speak to people and find out what they need and want. Ms Heise promised a commitment to a better future for the area. “It’s a biodiversity hotspot that must be protected for future generations. [It] needs a representative determined to stand up for it,” she said. Ms Heise told the crowd that as a health professional, she has watched successive governments over the years neglect health services. She also said that affordable housing is an investment in the community‘s future but more skilled people are essential to build the houses. Because of opposition to renewable energy, “the costs for rooftop solar are outrageous”. Additionally, the region had been left with poor mobile phone coverage. She said an example of the influence of independent Federal MPs was in the electorate of Indi where the local Independent had facilitated a 50 percent increase in phone towers. Ms Heise finished by reminding those in attendance that major party members are bound by the party. “That’s the difference with an independent; I get up in the morning to work for you.” By Andrew VIVIAN More than 200 people attended the launch. Photo: Vanessa Edwards.
