Frecklington has drive for change
BORN and bred a country girl, Deb Frecklington juggled three children and a law degree to become a lawyer and later, the MP from Nanango.
Born in Miles and brought up on a cattle property, Ms Frecklington attended a one-teacher primary school at Guluguba.
Despite the minuscule size of the school, it produced two female students who now stand in parliament - Ms Frecklington and Maryborough MP Anne Maddern.
Ms Frecklington completed a law degree externally while caring for three kids.
Ms Frecklington gave her first speech in Queensland Parliament on Tuesday where she drew on her community values and drive for change.
She said the ongoing droughts, floods and a life in family farming had taught her the diversity and strength required to make the land your home.
The MP drew Parliament's attention to the affect de-amalgamation had on councils in her electorate.
"Our local councils are battered and bruised leftover shells from the horrendous Labor administration that was responsible for the forced amalgamations," she said.
".. in the House I was very pleased to hear the honourable member for Mundingburra and Minister for Local Government state that we will make changes to the Local Government Act to put mayors and councillors back in charge, to ensure that local communities control their own destiny.
"Statements such as this explain why we are a government for the people and a government that is in touch with our communities."
Ms Frecklington said she looked forward to working to reduce red-tape and the cost of living for rural communities.
Ms Frecklington touched on the inefficient health services in Nanango including the need for a safe room within the local hospital.
"As a member of the South Burnett Suicide Prevention Group, I am constantly astounded by the number of deaths in our region from suicide," she said.
"Mental health is a growing area and the number of men from rural areas taking their lives is growing at an alarming rate."
The Kingaroy resident finished with heartfelt thanks for those who supported her and a promise to work hard to gain the support of those who didn't.
