The forum was a joint initiative of ABC North West Queensland and the North West Star and I thank the ABC for the enthusiasm which they took on the idea when I first broached it to them, particularly Andrew Saunders for his technical expertise and organisational know-how and Zara Margolis for being an excellent host of the night.

I also thank Spinifex State College for their support of the night and the kind use of the venue which was terrific.

Specific thanks must go to school principal Chris Pocock who was generous with his time and allowed us use of the school facilities and getting the technical set-up in the hall right on the night.

Thanks also to soon-to-be Y12 student Cherise Saltmere who gave a lovely acknowledgement of country to begin the evening.

Finally I thank the five candidates who attended, and who were seated in ballot order: Robbie Katter (KAP), Ronald Bird (LNP), Craig Scriven (Independent), Sarah Isaacs (Independent) and Danielle Slade (ALP). Sixth candidate Peter Relph was invited but did not attend.

All five present were generous with their time in a busy last week before polling and all gave considerate and thoughtful answers to the questions.

While obviously having varied opinions, they found much in common and they found merit in the answers of other candidates.

 They showed that politics needs not always be about rancorous disagreement and argument for the sake of argument, something sorely needed in a time where distrust of politics and politicians is at any all time high.

I hope that those attending and the many who watched the debate on Facebook got some valuable insights into the candidates that will assist with the voting process.

Meanwhile the North West Star will continue to cover the election in detail as the countdown continues to Saturday’s decision date for Queensland and the seat of Traeger.

Derek Barry