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9:36AM Saturday 06 September, 2008 Sunshine Coast weather Windy min 12° - max 23°

Hulett trounced by young Christian

The young bloke just out of his teens has given the “experienced” schoolmaster a lesson in politics.

Queensland’s youngest councillor Christian Dickson, 20, has convincingly trounced former Maroochy Shire Council colleague Tom Hulett for division six in the new Sunshine Coast Regional Council.

Rumours of Mr Hulett’s alleged bullying of Mr Dickson made headlines last month when Mr Dickson revealed Mr Hulett was constantly advising him not to run as he didn’t stand a chance of winning.

And while Mr Dickson wasn’t gloating in his overwhelming victory yesterday, with a more than 30% lead over Mr Hulett, he was glad justice had been served.

“Mr Hulett’s copping what he’s deserved,” Mr Dickson said.

“The public has told the truth, the public has said they want me there.”

Mr Dickson claimed Mr Hulett was continuing to boast about an easy victory outside polling booths yesterday.

“He didn’t talk to me – he hasn’t talked to me since the article on his bullying was revealed – but he was acting very confident and telling people he’d ‘got it in the bag’. This is a good example of how he says one thing and then something else happens.

“But he didn’t intimidate me, I had a good feeling about the election and I’ve realised the age problem people had with me is gone. When I door-knocked people said we needed someone new.”

Mr Dickson was looking forward to working under the leadership of mayor Bob Abbot, whom he supported instead of council colleague Joe Natoli from the moment Mr Abbot announced he would run for the job.

“I knew Bob would win,” Mr Dickson said. “I’m happy Debbie Blumel’s in as I would love to work with her.

I prefer her to (former Maroochy) councillor Tony Northey as she has a lot to bring to council and has the credentials to easily manage the job. Tony is a great person, but he was easily influenced by the likes of the Joe Natolis, Tom Huletts and Greg Rogersons of this world.”

Other election stories:

Abbot promises to deliver

I’ll leave with head held high: Natoli

Division one: Resounding win fires up Grosskreutz

Division two: Fatherhood on mind of winner

Division three: Preferences cost O’Kearney

Division four: result goes down to the wire

Division five: Johnson tips close result

Division six: Hulett trounced by young Christian

Division seven: Ted by a nose

Division eight: Finally, it’s victory for Blumel

Division nine: Griffin’s victory taps into mood for change

Division 10: Johnson helps Tatton

Division 11: Noosa’s Green vows to repay trust

Division 12: Brennan expected to claim victory

For our election coverage, visit our election '08 page.

Recent Comments

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on 16 March, 2008 at 12:17 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Congratulations Christian, on a well deserved win! I think I speak for a lot of people in breathing a big sigh of relief to be able to say goodbye to Tom Hulett! You are a quiet achiever with good morals, keep it up. Looking forward to working with you.
on 16 March, 2008 at 12:27 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
What did you say Tom?

You wouldn't need preferences as you would win it on the primary vote?

Oh dear, back to school for you!
on 16 March, 2008 at 7:53 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Sweet as it is to see Hullet trounced yet again by another "young man", you have to pity the children if he returns to teaching...
on 16 March, 2008 at 7:57 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
It is done, and sealed, the Sunshine Coast Regional council is settled and up and will be operating after the polls are declared, congratulations to the winners and commiserations to the losers.
It is noted in previous comments that there are a number of commentators who enjoy twisting the sword implanted in Joe Natoli, one wonders how well they know the bloke or maybe they sit in the nasty box throwing rocks at passers-by.

To Big Bob and the Councillors, you are all under the spotlight now. There will be many who expect wondrous things. They will of course be disappointed when their expectations do not rise from the ashes, the old council plans.

There are important infrastructure planning and implementation needing priority attention including dredging of the Mooloolah River and harbour. We have fours years to assess this council’s performance.
Four years is a short time, however, politicians are judged on performance not looks and promises
on 16 March, 2008 at 8:02 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Well done young fella!
on 16 March, 2008 at 8:43 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
yes yes you will have to pity the children if he returns back to teaching.... so maybe dont encourage him to be sent in that direction....

but FABULOUS work Christian! You got exactly what you deserved and we all know you will do a FABULOUS job!

Tom did say he was going to win on primary votes alone. oh and i believe he said that he had it 'in the bag'. I am so very happy to see he was wrong, as im sure many many others are.
on 16 March, 2008 at 9:09 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Where's Tom's congratulatory comment ? I'm sure he's read this article and blog a dozen times by now so I wonder why the keyboard hasn't been disturbed ???

Does this also mean an end to the ridiculous notion of a Maroochydore CBD adult entertainment precinct ? Tom seemed to be the only one who believed it would work and would be a good idea.

Well done, Christian. Now the hard work starts ...
on 16 March, 2008 at 10:52 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Congratulations Christian! Just goes to show that people DO take time to think about who they are voting for, what they stand for, and how they have conducted themselves in the past...and in this election, the people chose well, and wisely.
on 16 March, 2008 at 12:01 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Christian,

You impressed me with your maturity when I've spoken to you... I have a feeling you will be Mayor of the Sunshine Coast one day (give it 20 years and you will be only 40 and with a huge amount of experience behind you).

Congratulations on your victory!

Jeff Watson.

PS: There aren't too many things of comfort I can take from my results (in Division 8), but one of those is that I received more votes than Tom Hulett... gotta feel good about that!! (lmao) - sorry, just couldn't resist ;)
on 16 March, 2008 at 12:23 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Congratulations Christian Dickson for winning Division 6.
You have a very important Division in the Central Sunshine Coast area with the Buderim Private Hospital, the landfill, the Sunshine Coast University, the schools and daycares, the golf course, the list goes on, as you already know.

Division 6 has had changes to these facilities in the past few years, for example more wards added to the hospital and more lecture theatres added to the University, and there are public infrastructure and service improvements planned to get the balance right or sustain this patch of Australia.

It is no doubt that whilst you have learnt the ropes of local politics, you will work for the benefit of this Division and the Sunshine Coast Community (including employers, employees, future generations and the generations that have built and maintained the Sunshine Coast) in a professional manner, regardless of how contentious some issues may be, and I’m sure that Council decisions, when balanced or concluded, will be of benefit because some if not all of those whom have already been Councillors in Caloundra, Maroochy and Noosa have made these facilities equally important, whether for short term wins (within the 4 year term) or long term gains.

Also, I think that bobbuick’s comment of “Well done young fella!” is something to be appreciated, because as I was corrected by Bob_Bates, bobbuick is a distinguished ex-serviceman.
on 16 March, 2008 at 12:24 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Congratulations Christian and my very personal thanks to keep the serial one termer out for this term. Please remember some things grow like weeds, as you clear one art of the garden the weeds grow up in another. The same happens with that one. You throw him out in one division he pops up in another. I hope we are all very vigilant at all following elections on all levels of government. Never again him.
I wish you good luck and a successful term.
Hermann Schwabe
on 16 March, 2008 at 12:39 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Well done Christian.!! I am sure we will continue to see Steve influence for another 4 years. We look forward to you handling the make or break decisions that need to be made. I heard lots of statements of a $600 million dollar business to be run. The new council will I am sure put an end to the overdevelopment. Lucky we have a man with vision at the helm as he has a few inexperienced lambs and a couple of sheep to help him bring the SC into an extended metropolitan city. Amongst the rest he has some proven performers. This with soaring interest rates and the outdated Maroochy plan should see prices on Coast soar. Well done to Joe, Tom, Jenny, Greg Fahey, Rogo, Zrinka and all the other councillors of last term as they did hand over the reins with MSC in a heathier state. The incoming have it easy. Lets see how they go? Australia has just made a huge shift in stability just as we have become possibly the strongest ecomony in world. Ingnorance is bliss.
on 16 March, 2008 at 12:42 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
I think Aan Kerlin who got a certain ex councillor out the first time will ave a great day today as much as many other residents of the Sunshine Coast Region. I am certainly celebrating. And I hope to celebrate again tomorrow when we hopefully hear that Paul Tatton in Division 10 with he help of preferences will show "Rogo" - what a name - the door.

Hermann
on 16 March, 2008 at 1:27 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Hermann - I don't think you will get a lot of argument hoping for 'Ridgy Didgy Rogo' to join Tom Hulett! That almost (only one to go) cleans the old ones out! What a day for the Sunshine Coast.
Good God, transparency in government might become a possibility!
on 16 March, 2008 at 2:33 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Congratulations Councillor Dickson! Please take a moment to archive all the reasons people have given for voting for you.

While you are a breath of fresh air for the political arena today, there will possibly come a time where you also become jaded by the work at hand; accept the "expedient option" over the right one, allow yourself to believe "the ends justify the means" and become as evidently insincere as those the excellent people of division 6 have not returned to leadership.

When you meet those situations where the difference between the right and the good isn't evident (and I bet there will be plenty) remember why we the people voted you in, what we see in you and trust in you to be for us.

Also, to my mind - Mayor Abott will be a fantastic mentor for you, as I am sure many of the other members of the Super Council will be.

Congratulations, Good Luck, and Stay True to Who you are and What you believe in!
on 16 March, 2008 at 2:59 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
well Joe, time to look for a job, don't go back to fruit and veggies your family could not afford that, may I suggest that you approach one of your developer friends for a job as a builders labourer. I think they at least owe you that.
on 16 March, 2008 at 4:47 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Nice one Dude...
on 16 March, 2008 at 4:49 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Congratualtions Christian even from far of Sydney we understand and acknowledge that there is no place for Medicis or a certain T. Hullet in politics.
May be he should retire to ant counting rewriting history.

Joe Ruiz-Avila
on 16 March, 2008 at 5:10 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Come on Tom. Have you 'read and giggled' yet?

Amazing outcome. Beggars belief, and suggests more to it than meets the eye.

Fair dinkum..............if some kid without any commercial, business, or educational background said, 'pick me' and if his name was Fred Smith, and he did all the campaigning that this kid did, would he get up?

Not on yer nelly.

It seems the ALP might have got one in, and mayhap the Libs did too.

Listen up kid, you will be voting on matters which directly affect me and mine and we were not enfranchised on the matter. (Check with Dad, he'll tell you what that means). I'll be on your case.

You are beyond your depth, and I believe you are your father's puppet.

Prove me wrong.

Do you live with your parents, or have you left the nest?
on 16 March, 2008 at 5:19 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Tom and Rogo appear to have left town Hermann, not a squeak out of either of them. Nor Fahey for that matter....not that he stood in the election (thank goodness) but we haven't seen hide nor hair of him for many months.
on 16 March, 2008 at 5:24 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
citizenx - that's a backhanded kinda compliment isnt it?

well done Christian, if this doesn't put a foot in the mouth of the naysayers, i dont know what will.
on 16 March, 2008 at 5:33 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Our Christian Lad romps home.
Two term CD takes out one term Tom!
ARRRGGHHH Pieces of Eight, you big Pirate. ;-P
on 16 March, 2008 at 5:53 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Eiiwwwww Bob_bates, you're sounding far less mature than you're giving Christian credit for.

This young man romped home on his own merits not his fathers. Regardless of Hulett there were enough candidate options for people in Div 6 not to vote for Christian if they felt he was too wet behind the ears to cope with the job.

I don't know Christian but I do know Steve and it makes sense to me that his son will be as honest, straightforward and hard working as he is, and was, as councillor a few years ago.

This young man has conducted himself very well both in council and during the election, good on him, he'll do a good job for the region, let's see encouragement and support to keep him focussed as per noble_dakini's comments, not snide, sarcastic remarks.
on 16 March, 2008 at 6:16 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
To Perplexed, just like last time he was turfed, don't expect to see him publicly for a while. Something about that man's pysche leads to such utter internal conviction irrespective of the reality surrounding him, making for a far harder crash...

But I would not be sure this is the end of him, and people will need to be vigilant. But I'm pretty sure forums such as this will keep him button-holed in the future, preventing the sorts of behaviour he's managed to get away with in the past.

To Joe Ruiz, Hermann, Trevor and others, yes this is the sweetest result of the election - 8 years in the making.

It bodes well for the Coast.
on 16 March, 2008 at 7:06 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Bob_Bates has just shown why so many readers of these blogs consider him in the light they do - DIM, in many senses of the word.

What a pathetic, weak-gutted threat he tried to make in his dribble.

Christian, vote as you see fit - whether by guidance from your dad or others, in whom you place sufficient trust. Do not be swayed by the likes of dopey whingers who sit on the side lines and refuse to accept the majority vote.

Sure, Bob might whinge - just send a professional letter (or even better, have a staffer do it) telling him you have considered his views and weighed it up against others' and a decision has been reached ...

Stuff him ! Do what's best for the majority of your constituents. Good luck :)
on 16 March, 2008 at 7:19 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Bob Bates, you really are a nasty, immature unfulfilled old man.

We are all sick of hearing your lunatic ravings.

Why don't you just shut up like your mate Hulett.
on 16 March, 2008 at 7:26 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
G'day Joe, Hermann and Trevor. Nice, hey! Hulett ravished.

(We do know each other, but I'm not saying.....yet.)

But bugger this! There were other worthy candidates. I will protest against this outcome for as long for as I can type. Steve Dickson has his paws all over this, as have the Liberals.

My point will be made, or not, if the kid answers:

Do you live with your parents, or have you left the nest?
on 16 March, 2008 at 7:38 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
I would like to personally thank everyone for your kind words to date and I look forward to working with Mayor Abbot for the benefit of the Sunshine Coast. I would also like to thank the residents of the new Division 6 for your outstanding support and encouragement towards my campaign.

I wont let you down.

Christian Dickson

P.S. If Bob Bates was as smart as he makes himself out to be, he would've already found that I have been living out in the "real world" by myself, away from my parents, "out of the nest" for over 18 months.

Bob, perhaps you could write a list of things you don't like about me, then we can meet for a cup of coffee and sort them out "one by one". - I don't mean to come across "arrogant" or "on my high horse", but I personally challenge anyone who doesn't "approve" of my role on Council to sit down with me and ask the right questions. Surely 6500+ residents can't be wrong?
on 16 March, 2008 at 7:57 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Bob_bates - What an unbelievably stupid and immature bunch of comments, I happen to know Christian opposes his fathers political views and not that it matters, he left home long ago. You obviously dislike the man intensely. Are you a mate of Tom's?
on 16 March, 2008 at 9:04 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Christian absolutely ' bloody marvellous ' -
you deserve the win.

Ignore the putdowners by a couple of bloggers and continue to be yourself - perceptive , straight forward , decent , polite and honest hard working and also quite intelligent. If you continue to represent Division 6 and the rest of the Shire as you have over the recent period then the residents of Div.6 and the new Shire will benefit enormously.

One wonders what commercial , business and university degree a particular blogger has himself . There is a low percentage of people on the Coast with University degrees and even if they have a degree this does't make them an ideal human being or a good Councillor!

Really impressed to see old hands like Joe Ruiz , Trevor Thompson , Herman Schawbe and Alan Kerlin come out and show their support for Christian.
on 16 March, 2008 at 9:05 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
bob_bates.... seriously i have this thought that perhaps you should go check your facts before you come on here and start making false accusations and comments.

Christian worked hard he put in everything he had for that campaign and i believe he deserved the results. as he said 6500+ residents voted for him.. he deserves it and im sure he will prove you wrong...

and your not born with experience in this world. Christian will gain experience but i must say being older doesnt necessarily mean that your better at the job. Christian will do a fine job and he isnt arrogant enough to think he knows everything so he will learn, he will gain experience and he will make the 6500+ people in division 6 that voted for him proud.
on 16 March, 2008 at 9:24 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Got the message yet Hulett?
on 16 March, 2008 at 9:25 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Who cares what Bob_bates thinks about Christian Dickson...really.
on 16 March, 2008 at 9:38 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Congratulations Christian. I am so glad that Div 6 saw the light and we hopefully do not have to deal with Hulett and co again. We need an open and transparent council where planning schemes are upheld to the benefit of the community and are not a play thing of a developer. Be true to yourself, dont be afraid to ask questions, and dont be captured by vested interests to the detriment of the community. Good luck!

PS Love your spin on Huletts word back to Bob!
on 16 March, 2008 at 9:46 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Hey, 'roadrunner'....you and Steve's puppet seem to be very close. Care to divulge, publicly, who you are?

As for me being a mate of Tom's, you clearly have not been paying attention.

Kid.......you and I will never meet, ever. Well maybe........mayhap.

Let's see.

Will you now enrol at the SCU and learn how to read a balance sheet and a profit/loss set of accounts of this conglomerate?

I am very wissed off that an ignorant, erstwhile MSC library data entry kid now affects me and nine, in the Super Council.

Way, way, way out of his depth.

Again, the Sunshine Coast is a victim of Tom Hulett. The anti Hulett, blind pro Lib ,vote threw up this kid.

So, 18 months ago.........kid, you moved out.

Great!

Would you mind bunging up your resume/CV here.....?
on 16 March, 2008 at 10:17 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Atapro, no one cares about Bob_bates but it is clear we all care about Christian being bullied.....hmmmm, Bob_bates and Hulett are mates? They say birds of a feather stick together, bullies both don't you agree.
on 17 March, 2008 at 12:12 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Just looking at the comments here I would say that there are a few people with problems.

Mean spirited? I did not vote for Tom Hewlett but I found him helpful on an occasion that I need to contact him. I did not read the negative reports on any of the candidates as one never knows what is really behind it.

I wish the losers well and hope that they find alternative work. They have all had to work hard in their positions and had to fund expensive campaigns.

Losing is a big enough price to pay without having to put up with loony comments and vitriol
on 17 March, 2008 at 7:01 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Hey Bobby Bates,

Your sounding like a nasty, grumpy Old Man...you scared that the younger generation are on watch ?

Give the kid a go...I see he is out of the nest...but does that matter either way ?..Do you really think he wouldnt speak to the Old Man wether he was down the hall or 5000 km away ???...what planet are you on ?

Do ya think Hillary doesnt speak to Bill ?....even after Monicagate ?...lol.

Actually I dont think your a Grumpy Old Man...you just have an attitude problem !
on 17 March, 2008 at 7:18 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
This Bob Bates clown's ranting has me thinking that maybe cloning has been going on for a lot longer than they have let on - he sounds much like some other poor misguided soul that has just been shown the door.
Pull your head in and get a life buddy.
on 17 March, 2008 at 8:17 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
I'm with Atapro

"Who cares what Bob_bates thinks about Christian Dickson...really."

Who cares what Bob Bates thinks about anything!
on 17 March, 2008 at 8:26 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Dear Bob Bates

Triumphalism is at it's worst when you suggest that Connect Hulett's defeat as being ravished.

And I am more uncomfortable with such a connection.

I am far more confortable with describing Hulett's effort with the ravishing of the Sunshine Coast envirnonment at all costs.

That his current life skills apparently are questionable does not come as a surprise that you launch an attack on youth is remarkable.

After all much of the region's envirnonment has been destroyed under OUR watch and with people such as Hulett fully cognizant of the outcomes.

Our generation had our chances and we trounced them, receiving precious little in return.

Maybe, just maybe Councillor Dickson and what looks like a Council of substanial promise and integrity can turn things around. Give him a go he cannot do any worse than Tom.

Go for it Kid there is no coffee to waste or time to lose on convincing the unconvincible.

Joe Ruiz-Avila
on 17 March, 2008 at 9:38 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Bob. Get over yourself. You are not born with experience in this world you have to gain it somewhere.

Christian will go a great job on council and as he said if you have any issues with what he is doing, tell him and im sure he will address them with you one by one...

He worked hard and he deserved the victory. He has already proven he can do this in the past 18 months already in council and he will do it again.

If you are not willing to let Christian know what your concerns and problems are so he can address these with you STOP COMPLAINING!
on 17 March, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
My issues are exactly what I have said. The place for a 20 year old to get experience is not as a Councillor in a Super Council. The young bloke will be making decisions which will directly affect me, and I had no vote on the issue.

He has no commercial, business skills or qualifications. He has no tertiary education. He has no 'life' experience. As I have said, he is way out of his depth, and I sincerely hope at least HE knows that.

I will be delighted to hear that he has enrolled at the USC to undertake some formal studies in local government, administrative law and business.
on 17 March, 2008 at 1:02 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Just because someone is young does not mean they have no life experience. There are plenty of 25 year olds who have experienced more in life than some 45 year olds.

Life experiences comes from what you experience in the time you have been alive - not by the age you are.

I have experienced things in my short life that I am sure you never have and never will experience Bob Bates and visa versa.

Having a bunch of people representing the sunshine coast who all have similar life experiences will not
give proper representation to all and I am glad to see the diversity this elections has produced.

Good luck Christian - I know your life experience - being a young person RECENTLY growing up on the coast and being the only representative who knows what that is like will give your fellow councillors a different prospective of what needs to be done to represent all different types of the people here on the Sunny Coast.

Congrats on the huge victory - looks like most people have as much faith in you as I do.
on 17 March, 2008 at 1:59 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
It really surprises me, given Christian first made a decision in 1999 that he’d like to be a Councillor, he has done nothing to gain any formal qualification or experience which would stand him in good stead, in the mean time. All he has is his Year 12 Certificate and a Cert. 3 in Records Management. It seems he completed that course at TAFE while working in the only job the public at large know he had before being elected – junior records clerk in the MSC library archives section.

Not a whole lot of ‘life experience’ there, stelis.

I have no doubt at all that if his surname was Smith, and Steve was not his father, if he offered himself for election with the paucity of background he has, he would not have beaten Grosse the first time around, and from recollection she only received a handful of votes.


Much to my amazement given how little there is in his knowledge bank, the kid has been elected, and so, more power to his elbow.
on 17 March, 2008 at 2:04 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Bob Bates - back off.
Christian was not elected to look after your vested interest but to make decisions in the best interest of all people in the new Sunshine Coast Regional Council. In the scheme of that you as individual are just such a little part to be virtually insignificant. Please take your place and let Christian carry the responsibility of his job without undue pressure to protect your personal interests.

Herman Schwabe
on 17 March, 2008 at 2:28 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Hello, Herman.

Neither you nor Christian know what my personal interests are, so there is no request from me that he do me any favours. Yes, it is his job to make decisions in the best interests of us all, with amphasis upon.....'make decisions.'

My sole concern is that he has no background upon which he can draw to assist him make the correct decision. The chances of him making incorrect decisions is very real given his lack of business/commercial/academic/professional experience.

It would not matter how young one is, if you don't know how after proper training and experience, you cannot safely fly an aeroplane, nor even profitably drive a taxi, as Jeff Watson would say.
on 17 March, 2008 at 3:38 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Here's the thing, Bob_Bates : in an election, every person in the relevant area gets a vote. The candidate who secures the most votes becomes the winner - irrespective of who you might have voted for (had you been in the relevant area).

You're entitled to your view, but at the end of the day, you don't get to make the decision (despite your delusions of grandeur). While discussing your right to a view, we all know what that view is - we just choose not to agree and/or care about it, so please stop wasting the editor's (and our) time by saying the same garbage over and over.

Apparently enough people within his division had enough trust in someone you don't respect. Not your call ! The people have spoken now you have to shut up and listen.
on 17 March, 2008 at 3:44 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Just one final thought. i have to agree; please do not judge life experience off of age. I have lived in 27 different houses, lived in 3 states, complete an accounting class at uni with a distinction, have an involvement in politics and groups that assist with poverty around the globe , been taught how to buy and sell real estate, invest money, run businesses, deal with banks and many more things and i bet none of you could guess how old i am. so DON'T judge what people can do off there age. it is ridiculous!

Now how about we move the topic from the negative. Ignore bob bates as he does not deserve recognition. Christian has offered to talk to him and if he wants to change things he will do that... so lets focus on the positive now.

CONGRATULATIONS CHRISTIAN!
on 17 March, 2008 at 4:28 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Hello My 2 cents, who posted:

"Apparently enough people within his division had enough trust in someone you don't respect. Not your call ! The people have spoken now you have to shut up and listen."

It is not a question of trust or respect. It is one of experience and qualified ability. As far as I know, no-one is born with the inate ability to be a good decision making Councillor in a recently merged local authority area where a Super Council now exists.

Some relevant background/demonstrated ability would be nice, don't you think?

This is not Play School, is it?

And no, I do not "have to shut up and listen."

I am not going to labour the point over and over, but I will exercise my right of reply when something like your post is thrown my way.

If you don't like what I post, ignore me.
on 17 March, 2008 at 5:30 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Again, it wasn't your division so you didn't get a say! Suck it up!

on 17 March, 2008 at 6:07 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Hey Bob Bates,

instead of sniping from the sidelines why did you not run against Christian if you have all the knowledge, if you are soooooo good? It takes some courage to put oneself out there to be unreasonably attacked by the likes of you. As to your private interests, you mentioned them at least twice in your previous whinges.
So back off, give a constructive hand and help to make things work better or otherwise get a life. After all the people overwhelmingly have chosen to vote for Christian and not for the unspeakable.

Regards Hermann Schwabe
on 17 March, 2008 at 6:29 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Just for the record, Bob, you've got a friend in the editor's office. (Ed, I know, you carry the liability so I understand why my last comment was sanitised.)

Bob's comments are the ramblings of a cranky, old man who refuses to accept the younger generations are able to carry the burden of all of his hang ups.

Elections are not about who is the oldest or most experienced, they can also accomodate people in whom the voters see potential, and therefor trust.

If you don't like it, run for office yourself !
on 17 March, 2008 at 7:19 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
It seems as if Bob Bates is way out of step with the rest of the good folks in Division 6.

If he has so little faith in his democratically elected councilor he can always exercise his right to move.

Antarctica perhaps.
on 17 March, 2008 at 8:50 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Bob Bates, is your name really Bob Bates?
on 18 March, 2008 at 12:22 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Heather - didnt young CD's father vote in favor of the Montville Links Development while at MSC that you mention ? I think so............ oh isn't attached to the family winery???? I wonder why he voted that way?
on 18 March, 2008 at 8:49 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Good morning to you all!! It seems I have quite a fan club building!

Hello, My 2 cents, can’t get enough of me I see. I have no special hang ups, I am not an old man, and I don’t mind if you perceive my statements of common sense to be like the ramblings of a cranky old man. You don’t say why, but I can live with that.

G’day, Hermann. I did not run because, even though I run successful businesses and have a commercial background, I do not have sufficient knowledge/experience in local government.

I know my limitations and work within them. You are allowing yourself to become a tad emotional with the outburst that I am unreasonably attacking Christian.

Care to take the trouble to tell me how? I am quite certain that if I have posted as fact something which the Editor knew to be false, he would not have allowed me to be published. He didn’t because he probably knows exactly where I found the facts upon which I have arrived at the opinion I expressed.

You mentioned the ‘unspeakable.’ In my view, without the unspeakable. Christian would not have succeeded. It is logical to conclude that many gave their vote to what they saw was the bullied under-dog.

Hello, Bluesky. I have plenty of faith in the democratic process and I am exercising one of the rights that process allows me.

If you really believe that I should instead move, it is clearly you who does not understand democracy. I have no option but to accept the elections results (they weren’t rigged were they?) but that does not mean I am unable to make critical observations about the outcome.

Hi, perplexed. If your real name is ‘perplexed’ then you can conclude that my real name is ‘Bob Bates.’
on 18 March, 2008 at 9:45 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Bob Bates,

Haha, no my real name is not 'perplexed', I just admit that on occasion I am.

Whereas yours of course works very well for you.....Bob for Robert perhaps, Bates....or is it 'baits'? You're 'baiting' well, they are biting, big time.....or am I crediting you with just a little too much intelligence?!
on 18 March, 2008 at 10:41 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
".......or am I crediting you with just a little too much intelligence?!"

You could never do that, perplexed!
on 18 March, 2008 at 10:48 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Bob Bates. I truly do feel sorry for you - I think you need a hug. There are genuinely nice people out there bob and to continuously see only the bad in people is a very negative way to live. You must have had a lot of people in your life abuse your trust and that is why every comment you make is so negative.
There is a whole world of love and happiness out there - try writing something nice it will make you feel better.
Peace, Happiness and Love to all......
on 18 March, 2008 at 11:51 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
Welcome to the Bob Bates Fan Club, stelis. No, I have no need for hugs, and if you can tell me where I have only seen the 'bad' in for example, Christian Dickson, I'd be obliged. I have stated facts, and opined that it is not obvious Christian has the necessary experience to make correct, informed decisions on the very important issues which will confront this super Council. He might be the most wonderful kid in the block, but that is not a credential which will assist him come to grips with for example complex budget financial documentation.

The simple undisputed fact is the only ticket he acquired in the 2/3 years after leaving High School is a TAFE Certificate 3 in record keeping (which he probably found useful where he worked in the Library Archives) even though he decided in 1999 that he wanted to be a Councillor.

However, if you can point to some qualification, expertise, background or piece of factual information which suggests otherwise, once again, I'd be obliged, and I will happily be positive about it.

And, please, spare me the arm-chair psychology.
on 18 March, 2008 at 4:35 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Trying very hard here not to be bob bait, but nonetheless feel duty bound to point out that Christian does have some qualification, expertise, and background to successfully take on the job of elected councillor....he has prior experience from his last term, however long it was and he has the right energy and approach. Okay, this 'super' council will be a billion dollar business, but it is all relative to the days when councillors were the local butcher, baker, candlestick maker, road sweeper and church organist. Essentially they are local people with the interest in doing the right thing by the local community. The majority elect the person they feel will best represent them (admittedly time can prove the community wrong in their choice) BUT there is no formal ask of individuals to have business qualifications or prior experience in operating business or community issues for that matter, that's the whole point.

So baiting Bob, as you are risking becoming a belittling bore on this matter, consider leaving it alone and accept the fact that Christian Dickson stood for all the right reasons, was accepted for that by a huge majority in his division and democratically elected. Now let him get on with his job and prove you wrong.
on 18 March, 2008 at 6:12 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
His last term was about 18 months, during which, he was overwhelmed by the task. It was beyond him, and it is simple fact that he relied on others of experience to pull his strings, and assist write his speeches.

Ya see, perplexed, that makes him vulnerable. Ergo, it makes us vulnerable to shadowy, and more experienced figures influencing this young bloke with their views, especially if they have easy access to him, behind the scenes.

You make my point admirably, perplexed:

"Okay, this 'super' council will be a billion dollar business, but it is all relative to the days when councillors were the local butcher, baker, candlestick maker, road sweeper and church organist. Essentially they are local people with the interest in doing the right thing by the local community. The majority elect the person they feel will best represent them (admittedly time can prove the community wrong in their choice) BUT there is no formal ask of individuals to have business qualifications or prior experience in operating business or community issues for that matter, that's the whole point. "

In the end, it is all up to the voters.

If they choose to elect the local road sweeper to a position on a complex modern super council, which now has far more impact on our lives than was the case in the days you refer to, then you can expect critical comment like mine.

I am sure Christian would have done a fine job with the butchers and bakers and even the candlestick makers of decades ago, but Local Government and administrative law has marched on.

In 1999, he made a decision that he'd like to be a Councillor. He has had nine years to equip himself for the task. In those nine years, he has done bugger all. He has his Year 12 Certificate (I'd love to see the break-down of that) and a TAFE Certificate 3 in record keeping.

Sorry, perplexed, I still won't accept this outcome as having any relationship at all with Christian's talent. To do so, would be an insult to those who voted for him.
on 18 March, 2008 at 9:18 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Some loose points across all issues.

I believe to have a balanced Council you need very good local representation of all of the Sunshine Coast, that is all ages, experiences and creeds. I think CD will bring more balance to the Council. If there was no balance there would be no debates, and a "utopia" where no one argues would be a failed Council.

As for age and experience, Australia always has young diggers working and fighting for the way of life that everyone enjoys, with or without tertiary educations, and in this modern day they are studying while they're working, including “fresh-out-of-school” troops whom learnt that they are protecting Australia and neighbouring Countries from what is not wanted on these shores. Even in the World sporting arena Australia produces great young athletes leading he way for everyone, for example Michael Clark, 23 years old and an awesome Cricket Captain when put in the position, Casey Stoner 21 years old and 2007 Number 1 MotoGP World Champion, Ian Thorpe at 18 years old won 3 golds and 2 silvers at the Sydney Olympics and many more metals in the following years, the list is endless.

For those hung up on tertiary studies, there are young troops based overseas and studying at Australian Universities via internet and correspondence before they finish their tour and come home, and there are young Australians studying while working. Good opportunities and experiences for school leavers.

CD will not be the only person making decisions or tabling issues for Division 6, he now has great mentors and will be part of a well balanced team that will probably include some opposing views to issues raised for Division 6. CD will be tabling issues for his constituents, expectedly not as an “everybody’s mate” politician, but more so as a professionally balanced politician because that is what he is learning during his “rise to fame”.

I would say that CD is a well developed apprentice now transitioning from stage 2 to 3 in the wonderful world of local politics, and he will quickly advance to completing his ticket probably within 3 to 6 months when they really start making big decisions, as he learns from and with the entire team of Councillors that the Sunshine Coast have voted for “the big job”.

Once again, congratulations Christian Dickson on your win for Division 6, the Community voted for you.
on 18 March, 2008 at 9:31 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Bob,

Your issues then are:

1. Your perception that the influence he has from "behind the scenes" is a wrong/bad influence;
2. That those standing for election should be required to be of a minimum age;
3. That those standing for election should be pre-qualified to a determined level in business management, public speaking and fiscal matters, and;
4. That local government and administrative law, in spite of having 'marched on' has not addressed this.

You're on the wrong forum Bob, unfairly using Christian as an unfortunate example to voice your opinion and views, and you're not being honest about what your real argument is.
on 18 March, 2008 at 11:10 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
well ill leave my final word.... Christian will do a good job, im sure of it... he will not let down the people that voted for him. Whether or not you aggree Bob i simply don't care... but those who supported him, i thank you for showing that support and having the faith in him. He worked hard and won by doing this the right way and i just wish him good luck from here.
on 19 March, 2008 at 2:38 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Bob

You sound more like Tom every word I read. You're attitude toward the a younger person in office is disgraceful and shows a lack of maturity on your behalf. Christian has given you the chance to discuss things with him one on one but you refuse. To me it shows who has the maturity here, and it is certainly not you.

Bob maybe you should have run for council since you seem to know it all.

Well done Christian, you deserve your spot in the council,
on 19 March, 2008 at 5:05 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
A very warm welcome to maroochycentral, bubbles and sc lad to the Bob Bates Fan Club.

The tea and coffee are in the foyer.

Maroochycentral, I will be delighted to hear that Christian is undertaking studies now to enhance his knowledge. If he is, he said nothing about it during his electioneering.

Perplexed, please don't attempt strawman stuff. I have already set out my concerns and there is no need for you to attempt a reconstruction.

Well said bubbles. You might be right. Only time will tell, yet experience suggests he will struggle.

Whoa there sc_lad. You need to keep up, and read what I have posted concerning Hulett.

Firstly, personally and politically, I despise the man.

Secondly, I have no attitude towards Christian. I have never met the kid, and I have no reason to. I accept he is the most likeable kid on the Sunshine Coast, but, as I have already said, that is not a credible credential in this context. Any discussion he and I might have, we can have here, but more relevantly, it cannot change the fact of his extremely limited credentials for the job.

You can assist us. Instead of just posting an unsubstantiated personal blessing, perhaps you could tell us WHY he deserves his spot...........apart from the obvious, being that he was duly elected.

You seem to be able enough. Do a bullet point presentation setting out his talents.....and include, if you please, the experience he has in reading something, anything more complicated than his monthly bank statements, and library archive records. I am especially interested, and hoping that you can tell me that he knows, through demonstrated experience, how to read draft budgets, P&Ls and Balance sheets.

And, no I would not run for Council, and if you need to know why, go read my published posts.
on 20 March, 2008 at 8:08 a.m. ( Suggest removal )
For your info. Bob – Christian has formal qualifications in Business/Records Management he also has plenty of community involvement:
• Member of the Sippy Down & District Community Association (SDDCA)
• Attend regular school P&C meetings
• Visits and presentations to local schools
• Attend meetings of the Buderim War Memorial & Community Association (BMWCA)
• Participate in fund-raising days in the local area
• Presentations and speeches to local sporting clubs and Rotary organisations
And even though you continuously continue to dismiss it he has had 18 months of practical experience as a councillor where he was Service delivery Portfolio Co-chair
on 20 March, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
I've been reading this thread and it seems quite strange that some people here think that youth and inexperience is a virtue that trumps experience and education/qualifications.

I also found the post detailing Christians "qualifications" to be very funny, I mean when is "participating in fund raising days in the local area" or "visits and presentations to local schools" any kind of qualification for any position at all.

Self serving political opportunities do not count. It's a wonder you don't list his drivers license as a qualification as well.

There are a lot of people elected to political positions who have limited cv's but how can someone who has never led an adult life, who has never run a business, had a family, or even paid a rate bill represent people who have ? What understanding can he have ?
on 20 March, 2008 at 2:58 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Robert. The dot points in my post were not qualifications they were what I said they were - community involvements.

A person can have 100 bits of paper saying they are qualified for this and that yet also have led a sheltered life with little to no community involvement. Does that make them a better persons for such a position?

My issue is that people always presume that youth and inexperience go hand in hand as does intelligence and qualifications.

You do not need a qualification to be intelligent and you do not have to be old to be experienced!
on 20 March, 2008 at 3:14 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Also Robert you ask - "how can someone who has never led an adult life, who has never run a business, had a family, or even paid a rate bill represent people who have ? What understanding can he have?"

I say - how can someone who is old and out of date, has not experience what it is like to be looking for your first home for over 30 years, not experienced the social issues of youth today, or looked for a rental property recently - represent the 30% of residents who are in these situations? What understanding can they have?

Doesn't it make sense to not have a group of home owners - all in the same situations try and represent those who are not? I understand we need a majority of home owners representing the coast - but why do they all have to be?
on 20 March, 2008 at 5:16 p.m. ( Suggest removal )
Two bobs baiting us....or maybe they're the same one?! I guess any healthy debate is worth a bob or two. It's good value entertainment anyway, thank you Daily!

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