10:48a.m. 30th November 2007

| By Mark Furler

Maroochy mayor Joe Natoli has vowed to manage the Sunshine Coast's enormous population growth if elected as leader of the new super council.

"My vision for the future involves managing growth, creating prosperity and maintaining our lifestyle... all in a sustainable way,'' Mr Natoli said.

"We must support our families, grow our businesses and protect our environment,'' the former fruit shop owner said.

"We must preserve our natural icons for our children and their children.

"We must unite our communities for a brighter future.''

Mr Natoli said he believed he had the vision, drive, the commitment and experience to lead a thriving Sunshine Coast.

"There are around 300,000 people who call our region home,'' Mr Natoli said.

"Our population has grown ten fold in less than 40 years.

"We are now bigger than capital cities like Darwin and Hobart. We are bigger than Geelong, Freemantle and Cairns.

"With our population set to reach 480,000 by 2026 as locked in by the State Government's Regional Plan, we need an experienced leader who understands what is needed to manage this growth in a way that minimises its impact on our lifestyle.

"I believe we have to respect and appreciate the many different and diverse villages , townships and urban centres which make up the unique mosaic of communities across the Coast and hinterland,'' he said.

"We need to protect this lifestyle that we hold so dear.

"We have an opportunity with an amalgamated region to create a united community that reflects who we are.

"Many people have been urging me to run for mayor and after consultation with my wife and family, I have decided to put my name forward as the first leader of the amalgamated Sunshine Coast Regional Council,'' Mr Natoli said.