Councillor Karen Finzel has announced she will run for re-election when the Noosa goes to the polls for local government elections in March.
Cr Finzel, who has lived in Noosa Shire for almost four decades and served on council since 2020, said she is reaffirming a commitment to bringing independent, grassroots representation to council with a focus on enhancing Noosa’s environment, community, economy and culture.
“Each and every day as a councillor, I have drawn on experiences formed from nearly 40 years of community building in Noosa to bring authenticity to the council chamber,” Cr Finzel said.
“In a rapidly changing world, it is more important than ever that we foster a good understanding between government and community.
“To respond to local priorities, we must always listen to, represent and stand up for the whole of our community – from the hinterland to the coast and everywhere in between,” she continued.
As part of her re-election message, Cr Finzel identified 12 priority areas for 2024 and beyond, emphasising that the natural environment is foundational for the local community and economy.
“The natural environment is at the heart of what makes Noosa unique and must be preserved and allowed to flourish,” she said.
“Together, we can enhance the environment, community and business in a way that is complementary and in line with Noosa’s values.
More equitable delivery of public services across the shire is also on the agenda. “Our society should be judged on the quality of life for the most marginalised people, not the most well off,” Cr Finzel said.
“We have a diverse population and local government resources must be allocated equitably to provide public services that lift up those most in need. That includes looking at solutions for housing affordability, youth engagement and transport connectivity.
“In delivering programs, we also need to ensure that public money is spent transparently and accountably and that we are working collaboratively with community organisations, businesses and other levels of government.”
In her first term, Cr Finzel was selected as a member of the National Rural Women’s Coalition and Network and proudly represented Noosa at Local Government Association of Queensland conferences, ensuring perspectives from the shire are being considered at state level.
She is also a founding member of the Women’s Collaborative Network Noosa which elevates community voices by providing an inclusive and collaborative space for women to share experiences and work together for change.
