O’Brien hits the road to listen and learn

Federal Member for Fairfax, Ted O’Brien has launched his next seasonal road trip following this month’s election to “reaffirm his commitment to grassroots, community-focused representation”.

Mr O’Brien won 53.72% of the two candidate preferred vote to beat Naomi McQueen (ALP) by 54,787 votes to 47,201. The swing to Ms McQueen was 5.23% since the 2022 election.

The shadow minister with the job of pushing the Coalition’s controversial nuclear energy plan, says he was humbled by being returned as the local MP and is grateful for the trust placed in him by residents.

“My message to local residence is simple: thank you for entrusting me to continue to serve our community,” Mr O’Brien said.

“I want to thank the hundreds of volunteers and supporters who swung in behind my campaign – it was a mammoth team effort – and pay tribute to all other candidates and their supporters for a hard-fought contest.”

As part of his long-standing commitment to “old-style politics”, Mr O’Brien has undertaken a road trip around the electorate every season, that’s four times a year, ever since he was first elected in 2016.

“Popping up a marquee in local suburbs and operating a mobile office provides additional access for community members who’d prefer to meet in their neighbourhood rather than in my office.

“Each road trip has a primary purpose beyond assisting residents with their issues, and this one is an opportunity to reflect on the election results and receive feedback from local residents.

“My road trips are about listening first,” Mr O’Brien said. 

“And this one is really important in light of the Federal election where support for the LNP went backwards. I’m really keen to hear feedback on how we can do better.

The MP’s Autumn Road Trip will take place from Monday 19 May, with his mobile office visiting Coolum, Brightwater, Maroochydore and Nambour.

Times and locations will be published on Mr O’Brien’s website and social media platforms.

“My pledge is to continue delivering tangible outcomes for our region and to represent all residents of Fairfax, as well as the thousands of small businesses that power our local economy.

“But I’d also value feedback from locals about how my party and I can do better.”