By JONATHON HOWARD
HE’S been called a few names in his short time as a politician, but Federal Fairfax MP Clive Palmer’s most recent label “generous giant” is a front-runner for the most positive.
Mr Palmer announced earlier this year that he would donate his entire Parliamentary salary – more than $100,000 – to worthy community organisations throughout his electorate.
Those funds have now been released to more than 100 community organisations, from Eumundi Markets to Guide Dogs Queensland, to name a few.
The funds are being put to good use by paying bills, setting up new services or simply saving for a rainy day.
The larger-than-life character and mining magnate, who was voted into the Federal seat of Fairfax last year, said he was setting a political precedent of following through with promises.
“I hope these donations encourage other politicians to stop making empty promises and support their electorate, not just with their electoral allowance or parliamentary duties but by genuinely giving back and supporting their communities,” he said.
Coolum Meals on Wheels praised Mr Palmer after it received a cheque for $1000.
Coolum Meals on Wheels service co-ordinator Jennifer Waldroff said the funds were “extremely welcomed”.
“Our food is obviously our biggest expense, but we also need containers to transport the food and maintenance to various items in our kitchen,” she said.
Community organisations to benefit from Mr Palmer’s electoral salary included: Buderim Historical Society, Australian Air Force Cadets, Original Eumundi Markets, Cancer Council of Queensland Sunshine Coast Office, Coolum Beach Meals on Wheels, Guide Dogs Queensland, Mapleton Men’s Shed, Kenilworth and District Chamber of Commerce and Citizens, Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary Support Group, Nambour Blue Demons Hockey Club, Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show Society, Sunshine Coast Children’s Therapy Centre, Yandina Community Gardens, Sunshine Coast Police Citizens Youth Club and many more.
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