AS the local coal industry and South West region faces uncertainty on several fronts, Collie needs strong and experienced parliamentary representation more than ever.
I can't remember a time of more uncertainty in the local coal industry and we need someone who knows coal representing us in parliament.
With 25 years experience working in the mines to 12 years representing our community, Mick Murray has been a strong, consistent, outspoken advocate for our local industry.
With so much turbulence in the coal industry at the moment, we more than ever need Mr Murray's experience and strength in our endeavours to secure our future.
I was disappointed with the Liberal candidate for Collie-Preston's answer when asked by a journalist about the role of coal in the state's energy mix. The non-answer causes us serious concern in regard to her inability to deal with the serious economic issues facing Collie, in particular the mining industry.
Mick Murray confirmed that WA Labor's December pledge to hold an inquiry into the future of the coal industry would be backed by a reinstatement of the $6 million Collie Future Fund. This town was devastated when the Liberal-National Government slashed the fund in 2008.
It was a good sign when Mark McGowan visited our community in December last year.
He listened to what we had to say about the effects on workers and their families of the insecurity and uncertainty in the coal industry. He committed to holding an inquiry into coal prices and job security as well as looking into the Griffin sale.
The news about the $6m Future Fund shows he understands that the future of Collie is the future of our state when it comes to viable industries and guaranteed energy supplies.
There is no doubt we would not have secured the commitment to reinstate the Collie Future Fund without a local MP who was as experienced with the coal and power industries as Mick.
The fact that Mr McGowan's words have now been matched with $6m-worth of action is a great outcome and shows that our voices have been heard by decisions-makers in Perth.
It is pleasing to see WA Labor's commitment to working with industry and the community to diversify Collie's economy.
Gary Wood,
WA CFMEU mining and energy division secretary