By JOLENE OGLE
CONTROVERSIAL MP Clive Palmer has dismissed claims that last weekend’s Fairfax Festival was a political ploy to secure votes.
The festival, which included free entry to Palmersaurus and Motorama, saw more than 30,000 locals flow through the gates of Palmer Coolum Resort for two and a half days of community forums, dinosaurs and vintage cars.
In an interview with Noosa Today, Mr Palmer dismissed the “cynical” claims saying families were “doing it hard” and deserved a day out.
“I’ve got an obligation and a responsibility as a Member of Parliament to listen and not just to one person or one part of advice, but to all the people who have elected me,” he said.
“I’m fortunate in my life to have this resort that’s available. What sort of a person would I be if I locked it up and excluded the people who have put their faith and trust in me?
“Would that sort of member be a good Member of Parliament? Or is it better to share it with people and show some compassion with what they’re about? So that’s why we have Fairfax Day.”
Mr Palmer said the festival offered a chance for the community to come together and voice their concerns, with political forums held daily across the weekend.
“We believe in uniting all Australians. It doesn’t matter if you’re from the Labor Party or the Liberal Party, you’re still an Australian with a valid point of view,” he said.
While Mr Palmer didn’t indicate whether he would run in the next election, he said he would continue to focus on improving the lives of those in his electorate.
Mr Palmer also confirmed he had donated his parliamentary salary to local charities, with more than 170 cheques already sent.
Mr Palmer said other politicians should follow his lead, “if they can afford to do so”, because “public service should be about public service”.
“My motivation for serving in Fairfax wasn’t fuelled by my motivation to get money,” he said.
“So I was able to have enough other money in my life to (donate to charity). We will continue to do that during my term here.”
But, Mr Palmer said focusing on politicians’ salaries was a waste of time and a diversion from more important issues.
“The bigger issues are: How can we help people? How can we get the economy going?” he said.
