Bunbury candidates’ debate city’s future at chamber Q&A
Job creation, urban in-fill, and strategies to attract both large and small businesses were front and centre at the Meet the Candidates Q&A hosted by the Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Friday 12th September.
A mix of current councillors and newcomers took part, ahead of the upcoming local government elections which close Saturday 18 October.
On stage were mayoral candidate Jaysen Miguel and council candidates Marina Quain, Julie Broad, Tresslyn Smith, Daniel Singleton, Ben Andrew, Sam Morris, and Courtney Truman. Apologies were received from Michelle Steck, Gabi Ghasseb and Karen Steele.
Candidates discussed a few major topics submitted by attendees, and their stance on each.
Economic Vision for Bunbury
When asked about Bunbury’s future economic direction, candidates highlighted the need for fresh ideas and bold investment.
Courtney Truman called for stronger engagement with young people, more cash being transacted, partly to help young people appreciate the value of money and importance of savings.
Tresslyn Smith voiced support for Bunbury’s proposed Innovation Hub.
Sam Morris believes we need a strategy to bring people into the city from outlying areas. For example, a 'Park and Ride' type approach where people park and a free bus brings them into the city for work. This would also help reduce the parking congestion - helping free up spaces for customers.
Ben Andrew stressed the importance of urban density, including multi-storey, as businesses rely on workers who in turn need affordable housing.
Marina Quain urged greater state government investment to boost the city's livability.
Daniel Singleton suggested Bunbury could learn from Fremantle’s tourism and port-based opportunities, while emphasising the need for local advocacy.
Julie Broad encouraged bold investment in Bunbury’s strengths, saying the city has “so much to offer.”
In-Fill and Urban Development
Urban in-fill, particularly along Ocean Drive and the CBD, sparked a wide range of views.
Jaysen Miguel said council was open to developers putting their ideas forward, welcoming these as part of a “vision for what is possible.”
Tresslyn Smith backed targeted in-fill in the right areas, such as Strickland Street.
Ben Andrew agreed there should be a focus on in-fill and greater urban density (including multi-storey), including the removal of red-tape to attract investment. Businesses need employees and employees need somewhere to live.
Courtney Truman warned against congestion and stressed community input. Also wants neighbouring areas to benefit.
Julie Broad argued in-fill is vital to activating the city but should be carefully planned, and suggested paid parking needs to be part of the mix.
Daniel Singleton supported mixed-use multi-storey developments, stressing that paid parking and a variety of businesses in each development is key to ensuring their success.
Marina Quain welcomed the Bicentennial Square redevelopment as a catalyst for inner-city living and engagement. Wants to bring community into the discussion.
Sam Morris opposed residential developments at Back Beach, calling it “prime tourism land.”
Business and Job Creation
On driving industry and job opportunities, candidates presented a mix of ideas.
Courtney Truman pressed for more free parking and long-term planning, especially input from young people.
Tresslyn Smith said Bunbury needs to “sell itself better", and pointed out advancements such as ECU adding a local School of Engineering can help attract the future workforce.
Julie Broad believes big business is doing well generally, and that we need to focus on smaller businesses and the support they may need. City needs to act as a connector and there are agencies that can support this who may be underutilised.
Jaysen Miguel highlighted AMTECH as a growth area, advocating for value-adding industries and further investment in these.
Sam Morris proposed a School of Entrepreneurship to equip students, including international ones, with business skills, citing that the state can’t rely solely on mining to drive the economy.
Ben Andrew urged diversification, particularly embracing industries shaped by AI.
Marina Quain suggested closer consultation with business on their needs and expanding council’s rates base to help underpin investment in job creation activities.
Daniel Singleton called for a business incubator to help new enterprises establish themselves in the city, especially retailers who could benefit from shared spaces and alike.
The session reflected Bunbury’s crossroads: a city balancing growth, identity, and opportunity.
The Bunbury Geographe CCI thanks all who took part.
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