It’s the end of an era for the Cloncurry office of state MP Robbie Katter when it is forced to close down this Friday, February 23.
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The closure is another poor outcome from the recent electoral boundary redistribution that insists Mount Isa and Charters Towers are now part of the one seat, renamed Traeger.
And because there is an electoral office in those two towns, the Cloncurry office has to shut because MPs can only have two offices – despite the fact they are almost 800km apart.
Cloncurry Shire Council Mayor Greg Campbell was unhappy about the closure of the Cloncurry office after 22 years of service.
“This is a terrible outcome for Cloncurry, not having access to our State MP is a huge blow,” Cr Campbell said.
“Cloncurry is a town critical to the prosperity of the state and the loss of any job is an issue, especially one that serves the community so ably.”
Cr Campbell said Mr Katter’s electoral officer Sarah Harvey fielded many issues from the community, particularly when there is a lack of representation from various state agencies.
“Sarah is instrumental in getting positive outcomes for community members,” he said. “The office is also a great resource for community groups and individuals who just need a hand or a quiet chat.”
Cr Campbell said the office closure was another example of a loss of state government services from the region.
“The Palaszczuk Government has spoken endlessly about creating regional jobs but here is an example of an abject failure of government policy creating a job loss and a vacant shop.”
“It will be cold comfort to the loyal staffer without a job, but I call on the Premier to fix this injustice by creating an opportunity in another Department to ensure there is no net job losses.
“A good place to start is with a youth worker or family support midwife.”
KAP State leader and Member for Traeger Robbie Katter said he was gutted on behalf of the people of Cloncurry.
“Sarah Harvey, the electorate officer has done a sterling job over the years,” Mr Katter said.
“It is difficult with the two largest centres at either end of the electorate more than 800km apart.”
The North West Star has sought comment from the Premier’s office.
Derek Barry
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
Editor of the North West Star Mount Isa since January 2016. Prior to that, an editor at several regional southern Queensland newspapers. Passionate about telling local stories. Comes with a strange accent to due an Irish accident of birth.
