Politicians of different persuasion throw support behind Collie

Politicians from Liberal, National and One Nation parties have joined Labor in saying they need to work together to secure the best outcome for Collie as its economy transitions.

Liberal South West MLC Steve Thomas, One Nation South West MLC Colin Tincknell and One Nation WA Senator Peter Georgiou all took opportunities to speak at the community meeting.

Mr Thomas said there was less anger at Friday’s meeting because the focus was not solely on the issues facing the town as it had been on previous occasions.

He said there were plenty of ideas presented at the meeting by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan, but he was unsure about how realistic they were.

“I think Alannah didn’t outline those problems but she still didn’t provide solutions,” he said.

“I heard lots of pie in the sky stuff. In my view, what I said at the meeting put the wood on Alannah and said ‘you have this big fund of money, how are you going to deliver something’?”

Mr Georgiou said the level of community heartache and frustration was quite evident and had an impact on him.

“I was aware of some of the issues but after attending the rally on Friday evening I am better informed – the issues are complex and a lot of work needs to go into resolving this,” he said.

“I thought the meeting was quite fruitful – everyone got to have their say and I believe there is a genuine feeling to achieve a positive outcome between all stakeholders.

“Talk is cheap and people can tell when someone is telling them porkies.”

Nationals candidate for O’Connor John Hassell was also in attendance as Ms MacTiernan, Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray, Collie shire president Sarah Stanley and various union officials spoke.

Mr Hassell said it was good to see such a positive meeting take place.

“I think it’s really important that these meetings remain positive,” he said.

“I come from a town that nearly died out, but people were positive about the future, did a bit of work and got the town back to being a great place to live.

“I think Collie has a great future and it’s great if everyone can work together without being angry at one another.

“It’s essential that everyone continues pulling in the same direction, because everyone wants the best for the town and everyone wants their kids to grow up in a great town.”