I have lived in our area for over 15 years and am proud to call it home. With Karen and my two beautiful daughters, Kate and Laura, I understand that not only are families the backbone of society, they provide the foundation on which our nation can plan for future prosperity.
Before entering politics, I represented Queensland farmers as the President of the Queensland Graingrowers Association for seven years and as President of the Grains Council of Australia for two years while also working for the Queensland and National Farmers Federations.
As a former farmer, I have worked to bring my experience to my role as the local Federal Member of Parliament for the people and industries of the area.
As part of the Howard Government, I fought for the development of the Second Range Crossing. Work has since commenced on the drilling of a pilot tunnel to provide more information about what would be encountered in drilling a larger tunnel to take traffic.
As a long-term resident of one of Australia’s largest regional cities I understand what is important to the people of Toowoomba and the Darling Downs, from reliable road networks, to employment and small businesses as well as family concerns like child care and helping our aged residents stay in their homes for as long as possible.
As part of Tony Abbott’s team, I believe only the Coalition has a plan for Australia that allows locals to plan for their future with confidence.