THE race for the federal seat of Bonner is heating up as the incumbent, Ross Vasta, faces a strong challenge from Labor’s Kara Cook in what is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests in Queensland.
With a 3.41 per cent margin, Mr Vasta’s hold on the seat is far from secure, as Ms Cook has mounted a vigorous and grassroots-driven campaign that has caught the attention of voters across the electorate.
Mr Vasta, a long-time member of the Liberal National Party, has represented Bonner since 2010, but his margin has steadily narrowed in recent years.
With the electorate experiencing demographic shifts, Ms Cook’s challenge is gaining significant traction.
She has focused much of her campaign on the community.
From the Wynnum Manly Districts Men’s Shed expansion announcement to her unwavering commitment to supporting Medicare and local businesses, Ms Cook is building a reputation as a candidate who listens to the needs of Bonner residents.
Her announcement of a $500,000 investment in the expansion of the Wynnum Manly Districts Men’s Shed – a project that would see a new shed, the Lionel Morgan Shed, built to support more local men – is a perfect example of her hands-on approach.
“My life has been shaped by service – as a mum, domestic violence lawyer, small business owner, and Brisbane City Councillor,” Ms Cook said. “This election, voters’ choice matters. Labor has reduced inflation, lifted wages and delivered tax cuts. But there’s more to do. We’ll strengthen Medicare, including a new free Medicare Urgent Care Clinic locally, cap PBS medications at $25, take $150 off your next power bill and deliver more tax cuts.
“Peter Dutton will cut cost-of-living relief and Medicare while increasing taxes for his $600 billion nuclear plan. We can’t afford Dutton – he cuts, you pay.”
At the same time, Mr Vasta is campaigning hard to retain the seat, while continuing to focus on national issues like economic growth.
He said he was the only Coalition member to retain funding after the Coalition lost the 2022 election, with the Wynnum Wolves receiving $4 million to redevelop Carmicheal Park.
“I also fought tirelessly to retain the $85 million I secured to fix Lindum, during the Albanese Government’s 90-Day (200 day) Infrastructure Review. Fortunately, I was successful, and the Lindum Safety Upgrade is underway,” he said.
“I am proud to have already committed $500,000 for the expansion of the Wynnum Manly Districts Men’s Shed, if a Dutton-led Coalition government is elected.
“I am glad Kara Cook has decided to match my commitment, because I want our community to flourish.
“In addition, I have announced $540,000 for the Bayside Woodturners and Woodcrafters, $540,000 for the Wynnum Vikings, and $1 million for Wynnum Manly District Cricket Club.”
