Cook is the largest Shire in Queensland at 106,000 square km. It takes up 80 percent of Cape York and neighbours with 10 Indigenous shire councils. Considering the size, we have a small population of approximately 5000 people, meaning we have a very low rate base.
Do you have a favourite part of the council area?
Cooktown with its natural beauty, coastal location, rich history and harmonious, culturally diverse community.
Why did you become involved in local government?
I’ve been a Councillor for 17.5 years. I’ve long been involved in many businesses and sporting groups and joined Council at the request of the community in 2004. I was elected Mayor in 2008 and have been in that role for 13.5 years.
How do other aspects of your life contribute to your role as a Councillor?
My wife Sayah runs a motel/guest house which is 135 years old and on a large property. Maintenance keeps me busy on weekends and in touch with tourism, housing and travelling public issues.
What activities do you enjoy outside of work hours?
I’ll occasionally go fishing, or get in a round of golf but being granddad to my young granddaughter is definitely my favourite focus outside of work hours.
Council goals, challenges and achievements:
The key challenges facing Cook Shire Council are financial sustainability, staff and public housing, and perennial disaster management.
What innovative projects or policies is Council working on?
utilising Council owned land and resources to develop critical housing/building to support a growing public service and the private sector and supporting clean energy development at Lakeland through solar, wind and hydro projects.
Tell us about a specific success you have had in local government.
The recent 10 day Cooktown and Cape Expo 2021 was a hugely successful cultural collaboration, that generated significant tourism and business attention and truly showcased the region.
What is the best part about being a councillor?
Having pride in the evolution of a community and being privileged to be involved in a true partnership role with the local and regional players.
What is the worst part?
A councillor’s role is twofold – to represent your people to the government and to represent the government to your people. Sometimes legislation and political correctness seems opposite to common sense and a fair go. This is frustrating to those who put their hand up to serve their constituents.
What do you hope to accomplish in the future?
To continue to help develop our community to be safe, healthy, socially integrated and culturally and environmentally conscious.
