David Batt (Hinkler, Liberal National Party) | Hansard source

This week I have launched Hinkler's Biggest Survey. Following the success of my small-business survey in May, I'm now inviting everyone across the great Hinkler electorate to have their say. It's a privilege to serve my community, and, after my first year in this role, I'm keen to hear directly from as many locals as possible. People are facing real pressures and rising costs, and I want to bring their concerns to this place, stand up for what matters and ensure my community gets a fair go. Hinkler's Biggest Survey covers issues relating to energy, taxation, health, the cost of living, transport, welfare, seniors, veterans, the environment and much more. The coalition are putting forward our plan to restore Australians' standard of living and protect our way of life, and the feedback through surveys like this help us form the right priorities for regional Australia.

When it comes to tourism, more than 60 per cent of those in the tourism sector on the Fraser Coast are reporting to be under some level of pressure, and 40 per cent of respondents in recent tourism surveys have reported an increase in cancellations. Wages, insurance and the cloud over fuel costs are among the main factors, and that's why the coalition is committed to encouraging people to travel to our region and not deter them.

While times are tough ahead of another whale season, I'm pleased to share some great news and report that Fraser Coast Tourism & Events has a new CEO. Simon O'Callaghan is the former boss of Yarra Ranges Tourism, in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges. He helped grow their visitor economy to a staggering $1 billion annually. He's swapping chardonnay for humpbacks, and I've had the fortune to meet with Simon to discuss the challenges and indeed the opportunities for local tourism. I'll continue to work with Simon and all the stakeholders to ensure destination Fraser Coast is at the top of the list for potential holiday-makers.

While local tourism is thriving, so is our community, and one of the most important strengths of any great community is connection. Coinciding with Men's Health Week, I had the pleasure of joining the Men's Walk & Talk Hervey Bay at walk No. 545. Led by Shane Bradbury, this group of blokes from all walks of life and all ages meet on the esplanade and Hervey Bay for a walk and talk every Tuesday afternoon at sunset and as the day breaks on a Thursday morning. The Men's Walk & Talk provides a positive, supportive and inclusive space, where there's no pressure and no barriers to entry; just an opportunity to walk, talk and support. As a trained mental health first aid officer myself, I truly appreciate the value in projects like this. I thank Shane and his team of volunteers for making a real difference.

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