Borrowing an idea originally canvassed by former councillor Vivien Griffin in a Noosa Today Soapbox article at the start of this campaign, suggesting that this is what all election campaigns should be about, Cr Tom Wegener and campaign manager Margie announce a “contest of ideas” function aimed at getting younger voters interested in election issues and possible solutions.
At Noosaville’s Land and Sea Brewery this Sunday (3 March) from 4pm, “six of Noosa’s best young entrepreneurs will pitch their big ideas for Noosa, and the audience will judge the winners… Be entertained, stretch your mind, share the stoke! Bring your friends!” If that sounds like a party, you’re not wrong. Between talk sessions special guest DJ Fin Wegener will be on the decks, handmade “Surfie” bellyboard lucky door prize and other giveaways, and plenty of cold libations.
But there is also a more serious side to the gathering. Says Tom: “We are staging this event as part of my election campaign by way of celebrating the best of Noosa and inspiring Noosa residents, especially the young crowd. We are asking contestants to come with one big idea for Noosa. I know that might seem daunting but all ideas are valid. History shows us that ideas we once thought were impossible or crazy, come to be the best ideas over time.”
Supported by Tom and Margie, each contestant will be given three minutes to pitch their ideas, and they’ll be judged by a panel of groms known as The Future, with help from the audience.
Confirmed contestants include: Javier Leon, Surfrider Sunshine Coast president and science professor USC; Joel McPherson, outdoor adventurer and owner of Joel’s Journeys; Ashleigh Browne, surf coach, entrepreneur and student; Shane Fairweather, head brewer, Land and Sea; Jake Henry, music promoter, Little Temple Records.
Land and Sea Brewery, 19 Venture St, Noosaville, from 4pm Sunday.
