Keith Pitt (Hinkler, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

This year, 2014, has been a great year in the Hinkler electorate, and I have delivered on each of the election commitments that I made to my constituents. Ministers, assistant ministers and parliamentary secretaries have visited the electorate to hear Hinkler residents' views. I have successfully advocated on behalf of numerous constituents for what are often very complicated issues relating to immigration, taxation, Centrelink and Medicare.

I have been fighting to end the buck-passing between departments with regards to the exploitation of foreign workers in the Queensland horticulture and tourism industries. I have sought decorations for Long Tan veterans and census recognition for Australian South Sea Islanders. Bundaberg is one of 10 sites prioritised nationally for the National Broadband Network. Bundaberg and Hervey Bay are among 18 sites selected nationally for the first phase of Work for the Dole.

I would like to congratulate my state colleagues Ted Sorenson, Jack Dempsey, Anne Maddern and Stephen Bennett on their efforts locally. Local hospital wait times have significantly improved. Local crime has reduced, and the maintenance backlog in Queensland schools is being addressed. My focus going forward will be to work with my state and local counterparts to attract investment to the region to create jobs.

I would like to thank my staff and supporters Debbie, Larine, Darlene, Stacey and Janelle; and Bill Trevor, Pat Denham and Brian Courtice. It has been a great year and I look forward to 2015. Finally, I take this opportunity to wish all Hinkler residents a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year. My door is always open.

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